Are you a homeowner or tenant in Bury, Greater Manchester, worried about high energy bills or living in a cold, draughty home? You may qualify for free home improvements under the ECO4 and Bury Flex schemes. These government-backed grants are designed to help households like yours reduce heating costs, improve comfort, and support the UK’s push for net-zero carbon.
With the support of Bury Council, the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and trusted providers like Reliant Energy Solutions, residents in Bury now have more opportunities than ever to access life-changing home upgrades.
This guide explains how the ECO4 and Bury Flex schemes work, who qualifies, and how you can apply without stress.
What Is the ECO4 Scheme?
The ECO4 Scheme, funded by the UK Government and regulated by Ofgem, provides grants for energy efficiency improvements. Instead of paying upfront for expensive upgrades, qualifying households in Bury can receive:
- Free boiler replacements
- Loft and cavity wall insulation
- Solid wall insulation
- Air source heat pumps
- Solar panels (where suitable)
The goal is to reduce fuel poverty and cut carbon emissions, while ensuring homes are warmer and more affordable to run.
What Is Bury Flex (ECO Flex)?
While ECO4 normally requires households to be on specific benefits, the Bury Flex (ECO Flex) scheme, run through Bury Council, allows more flexibility.
This means even if you don’t claim benefits, you may still qualify if you:
- Have a household income below £31,000 per year
- Live with a health condition made worse by cold homes (such as asthma, arthritis, or heart disease)
- Have children or elderly family members particularly vulnerable to cold weather
- Live in a property with a low EPC rating (D, E, F, or G)
By using Bury Flex, more families in the borough can receive the support they need.
Local Authorities Supporting ECO4 in Bury
Several local organisations work together to make the ECO4 and Bury Flex schemes possible:
- Bury Council – Approves applications through ECO Flex and supports low-income families.
- Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) – Oversees the region’s low-carbon strategy, aiming for net-zero by 2038.
- Bury Housing Department – Offers guidance on energy efficiency and housing improvements.
- Citizens Advice Bury & Bolton – Provides free, impartial advice on grants and energy support.
- NHS Bury Integrated Care Partnership – Works with the council to identify residents whose health is affected by cold homes.
By partnering with Reliant Energy Solutions, these organizations ensure that grants are delivered safely and effectively.
Who Qualifies for ECO4 in Bury?
You may be eligible for ECO4 or Bury Flex if:
1. You Receive Qualifying Benefits
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit (Savings or Guarantee Credit)
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit
- Income-related ESA or JSA
- Tax Credits
- Child Benefit (subject to income thresholds)
2. You Meet Income Rules (Bury Flex)
- Household income under £31,000
- Or higher income if you have a health condition affected by cold homes
3. Your Property’s EPC Rating
- Homes rated E, F, or G are prioritised
- D-rated homes may also qualify (though funding is limited)
4. You Own or Rent in Bury
- Homeowners, private tenants (with landlord permission), and landlords with qualifying tenants are eligible
Step-by-Step: How to Apply in Bury?
Applying for ECO4 or Bury Flex is simple with Reliant Energy Solutions.
- Check Your Eligibility
Contact Reliant Energy Solutions online or by phone. They’ll review your carbon passport (the digital record of your home’s energy status). - Book a Free Home Survey in Bury
A qualified surveyor will visit to check your EPC rating and see which improvements are available. - Application with Bury Council (if needed)
If you don’t qualify through benefits, Reliant will submit your case via Bury Council’s ECO Flex program. - Approval and Installation
Once approved, TrustMark-accredited installers will carry out the upgrades at no cost to you. - Carbon Passport Update
Your digital record is updated to reflect the improvements, keeping you eligible for future schemes.
Benefits of ECO4 and Bury Flex
By joining the scheme through Reliant Energy Solutions, Bury residents can:
- Save Money – Cut energy bills by up to £400 annually.
- Stay Warm – Better insulation and heating reduce cold spots.
- Protect Health – Lower risks of damp, mould, and respiratory illnesses.
- Support the Environment – Help Bury contribute to Greater Manchester’s net-zero goals.
- Avoid Upfront Costs – Grants cover the full cost if you qualify.
Common Challenges for Bury Residents
Many households in Bury don’t realize they qualify for help. The most common issues include:
- Outdated EPC Ratings – Many homes haven’t had an updated Energy Performance Certificate. Reliant can arrange one for you.
- Unawareness of LA Flex – Some families assume they can’t apply if they’re not on benefits, but Bury Flex changes that.
- Fraudulent Installers – Sadly, some rogue traders charge upfront fees. Always verify with a TrustMark-accredited provider like Reliant Energy Solutions.
How Reliant Energy Solutions Helps Bury Residents?
Reliant Energy Solutions is a TrustMark-accredited installer, working closely with Bury Council and Greater Manchester Combined Authority. Their role is to:
- Provide free home surveys
- Handle all paperwork with Bury Council
- Install approved energy efficiency measures
- Update your carbon passport
- Offer ongoing support and guidance
With their local expertise, Reliant ensures a smooth and stress-free process.
FAQs About Bury Flex and ECO4
Q1: Can private tenants apply?
Yes, with landlord permission. Reliant Energy Solutions will help coordinate the process.
Q2: How long does the process take in Bury?
Most applications are processed in 3–4 weeks, with installation shortly after.
Q3: Do I need to contribute financially?
No, if you qualify, the scheme is 100% funded.
Q4: Can landlords in Bury apply?
Yes, if they have tenants who meet the eligibility criteria.
Conclusion: Don’t Miss Out on Bury Flex Support
The ECO4 and Bury Flex schemes are making a huge difference for households across Bury. Whether you’re struggling with high bills, living in a cold home, or worried about damp and mould, this is your chance to make lasting improvements—without the cost.
With support from Bury Council, Greater Manchester Combined Authority, and Citizens Advice Bury & Bolton, and expert help from Reliant Energy Solutions, applying has never been easier.
Don’t wait. Check your eligibility today with Reliant Energy Solutions and start your journey toward a warmer, cheaper, and greener home.
