What is the first time central heating grant?
The ECO3 Scheme also includes the 'First Time Central Heating Grant. ECO3 was the core scheme introduced by the government. The Energy Company Obligation is a legal obligation for larger energy suppliers to implement energy efficiency measures in domestic homes. It’s part of a scheme of grants that the government offers to make the UK more eco-friendly by reducing the UK's emissions by 2050.
The term "Affordable Heath" might be something you've heard. Affordable Warmth focuses on those who are most in dire need. This includes households with low incomes, fuel poverty, and vulnerable households. The Government has established the eligibility criteria for ECO3, which will make the scheme available to approximately 6.6m households. Additionally, up to 25% of the obligation can be met by Local Authority Flexible eligibility.
ECO3 was created by the UK Government to make home heating more economical and more efficient. It involves replacing old and inefficient boilers and other heating systems with energy-efficient replacements. This combination makes it easier to heat your home with less gas and electricity.
"First Time Central Heating", also known as FTCH, an extension or aspect of the ECO3 program, allows for the creation of a complete system including boiler, pipes, and radiators. This is a huge job but the scheme usually covers all costs. It is designed for those who don't have a central heating system.
What are the eligibility criteria to get central heating for the first time?
Two ways to apply for First Time Central heating scheme are available: either via the main ECO3 program or via LA Flex. While each has different eligibility requirements, both require that your household not have any existing central heating systems. You'd likely have one of the following heating systems as an alternative:
Electric room heaters: Direct-acting heaters, fan heaters, and inefficient electric storage heaters
Gas room heaters; including fixed mains gas room heaters; or
Gas fire with back boiler
Solid fossil fuel fire, back boiler
Ceiling heating and electric underfloor heating; are not part of an electrical boiler
Bottled LPG room heating
Warmers for rooms heated by solid fuel;
Wood/biomass room heating
Oil room heaters
What sets LA Flex apart from ECO3?
LA Flex is closely connected to ECO3 as it's an extension of ECO3's scheme. It's essentially more money that's given by Local Authorities to pinpoint households that fall outside the main ECO3 eligibility criteria but still would heavily depend on the funding schemes. It's the same scheme with a different application process (for our part, as we do all the legwork).
The rules are slightly looser, but ultimately you will get the same thing: a free boiler replacement, new cavity walls insulation, and underfloor heating. LA Flex can be granted by different Local Authorities.
What are the Eligibility Criteria to Apply for LA Flex or ECO3?
LA Flex and ECO3 both require the applicant to be the owner. If you're renting, you won't be eligible for these programs. For First Time Central Heating, they require that your home have no boiler. You must also have a minimum of 7 years old boiler or no boiler in your home. Boilers become less efficient as they are used more frequently. For example, if your 10-year-old boilers still have the "B" rating sticker, chances are it isn’t that efficient. 7 years is the age at which boilers will have deteriorated enough to warrant replacement. This is when the requirements change.
To be eligible for Eco 3, you must receive a government benefit. This includes:
Element Pension Credit Guarantee Credit Credit
Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
Income-based Jobseeker’s Benefit (JSA)
Income Support
Credits for Working Taxes
Child Tax Credits
Armed Forces Independence Payment
Attendance Allowance
Carer's Benefit
Disability Living Allowance
Severe Disablement Allowance
War Pensions Mobility Supplement
Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
Constant Attendance
Child Welfare

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