Energy bills in the UK have been rising sharply, putting extra pressure on households especially those already struggling with fuel poverty. To tackle this, the government introduced two major initiatives: the Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4) and the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS).
While both schemes have been game-changers, they have faced challenges in delivery and accessibility. To improve efficiency and ensure maximum benefit for households, the government has now introduced mid-scheme fixes. These updates are designed to make ECO4 and GBIS more flexible, cost-effective, and impactful.
For homeowners and tenants across England, Wales, and Scotland, these changes mean faster access to upgrades, better standards, and improved savings. And with Reliant Energy Solutions, a trusted local provider, you can benefit from these fixes with smooth installations and expert guidance.
What Are ECO4 and GBIS?
ECO4 – Energy Company Obligation 4
- Duration: April 2022 – March 2026
- Funding: £4 billion
- Aim: To upgrade homes with low energy efficiency ratings (EPC D–G), focusing on low-income and vulnerable households.
- Measures Covered: Boiler replacements, air-source heat pumps, solar PV, cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, underfloor insulation, and solid wall insulation.
GBIS – Great British Insulation Scheme
- Launched: 2023
- Funding: £1 billion
- Aim: To provide single insulation measures to a wider range of households, not just low-income ones.
- Eligibility: Homes in Council Tax bands A–D and EPC bands D–G.
Together, ECO4 and GBIS aim to reduce energy bills, cut carbon emissions, and make homes warmer and healthier.
Why Were Mid-Scheme Fixes Introduced?
Despite strong intentions, both schemes saw slow progress in the early stages. Some of the main challenges were:
- Limited options: GBIS allowed only one insulation measure, reducing overall effectiveness.
- High compliance costs: Installation standards (PAS 2035/2030:2019) increased costs for suppliers and slowed down delivery.
- Supplier hesitation: Meeting strict targets was proving difficult, which risked under-delivery.
- Consumer accessibility: Households found it confusing to navigate eligibility and applications.
To address these barriers, the government announced mid-scheme adjustments in 2024–25, making the schemes more flexible and impactful.
Key Fixes to ECO4 and GBIS
1. Loft and Cavity Wall Insulation Together (GBIS)
Previously, GBIS only allowed one insulation measure per property. Now, homes can get both loft insulation and cavity wall insulation installed together. This is a huge improvement as it boosts overall energy savings and makes installations more worthwhile for both households and suppliers.
2. Smart Thermostats for Low-Income Households (GBIS)
Low-income households under GBIS can now qualify for smart thermostat installations alongside insulation. This means better control over heating, reduced wastage, and long-term savings on bills.
3. ECO4 Delivery Can Count Towards GBIS Targets
One of the biggest changes is that suppliers can now use their ECO4 delivery to cover up to 75% of their GBIS obligations. This streamlines compliance, reduces supplier burden, and ensures more households get upgraded faster.
4. Updated Installation Standards – PAS 2035/2030:2023
The old PAS 2019 standards have been replaced with PAS 2035/2030:2023. For certain lower-cost measures under GBIS, the government is also allowing the use of TrustMark Licence Plus (TMLP) as an alternative. This balances quality with affordability.
5. Pay-for-Performance (PFP) with SMETERs
A new voluntary performance model has been introduced. Using Smart Meter Enabled Thermal Efficiency Ratings (SMETERs), suppliers can prove the real thermal improvements in homes. This encourages quality work and ensures homeowners actually see the promised energy savings.
How Reliant Energy Solutions Helps Homeowners Locally?
As a trusted installer, Reliant Energy Solutions plays a vital role in making these mid-scheme fixes accessible for local households. Here’s how:
- Dual Insulation Upgrades: Delivering both loft and cavity wall insulation in one visit.
- Smart Control Installations: Helping low-income homes set up smart thermostats for greater efficiency.
- Compliance Experts: Following the latest PAS 2023 and TrustMark standards for guaranteed quality.
- Performance Tracking: Offering data-backed energy improvements with SMETER monitoring.
- Simplified Applications: Guiding homeowners through ECO4 and GBIS eligibility checks and paperwork.
Whether you’re based in London, Birmingham, Manchester, or Leeds, Reliant ensures quick, reliable, and fully compliant installations.
Benefits for UK Homeowners
By applying for ECO4 or GBIS under the new mid-scheme fixes, you can:
- Save more on bills: Combining insulation measures reduces heat loss significantly.
- Stay warmer for longer: Improved insulation and smart thermostats keep homes comfortable.
- Get quality assurance: Installations under PAS 2023 and TrustMark maintain high standards.
- Access flexible funding: With ECO4 work now counting toward GBIS, more homes are eligible.
- See measurable impact: SMETER-based performance ensures your savings are real and trackable.
How to Apply with Reliant Energy Solutions?
1 – Check Eligibility
Find out if your home qualifies under ECO4 or GBIS based on Council Tax band, EPC rating, and household income.
2 – Book a Free Survey
Reliant Energy Solutions will assess your property and explain which upgrades are best for you.
3 – Receive a Custom Plan
You’ll get a tailored plan with available measures, timelines, and compliance details.
4 – Installation by Experts
Our certified installers complete the work to the highest standards using PAS 2035/2030:2023.
5 – Start Saving
Enjoy lower bills, a warmer home, and the peace of mind that comes with government-backed upgrades.
Conclusion
The mid-scheme fixes to ECO4 and GBIS have unlocked new opportunities for UK homeowners. With dual insulation options, smart thermostats for vulnerable households, flexible compliance, and performance-based incentives, these schemes are now more effective than ever.
By working with a trusted installer like Reliant Energy Solutions, you can navigate these schemes easily and secure long-term energy savings for your home.
Call to Action
Ready to make your home warmer, greener, and cheaper to run?
Contact Reliant Energy Solutions today for your free eligibility check and start benefiting from the latest ECO4 and GBIS mid-scheme updates.
