Up to £1 Billion for Home Insulation in Great Britain
The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) is a major UK government initiative launched in July 2023, targeting up to £1 billion of funding between then and March 2026. Managed by Ofgem, GBIS offers free or heavily subsidised insulation upgrades including cavity, loft, solid-wall, floor and park-home insulation, to fuel-poor households across Great Britain.It builds upon the existing ECO4 scheme, extending support to an estimated 300,000 homes with low EPC ratings.
Why GBIS Matters Now
With rising energy costs and a push toward Net Zero targets, the GBIS is designed to alleviate fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions. Residents typically save £300–£400 per year on heating bills through upgraded insulation. Local authorities and councils can also refer households that narrowly miss standard criteria, broadening access through the GBIS Flex route.However, uptake has been slower than hoped. As of August 2024, only about 24,400 homes had benefited, highlighting the need for greater awareness and faster delivery.
What GBIS Covers
The scheme provides multiple insulation measures tailored to household needs. These include:
- Loft insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Solid wall insulation (internal/external)
- Floor insulation
- Room-in-roof insulation
- Park-home insulation
Works are carried out by registered installers using materials with a lifespan of 20+ years, ensuring long-term benefits.
Who Can Qualify
Eligible homes are typically:
- EPC rated D, E, F, or G
- Owner-occupied, private rented, social housing, or park homes
- In the lowest council tax bands (A–D England, A–E Scotland/Wales)
- Referred by energy suppliers or local authorities under the GBIS Flex route.
Recipients don’t pay upfront costs and may even receive full coverage if they meet the fuel-poverty criteria outlined by Ofgem and ECO4A regulations.
Progress & Performance
By October 2024, approximately 46,900 measures had been installed in nearly 37,000 eligible homes. While promising, this remains below the intended pace needed to reach the target of 300,000 homes by March 2026.
Why Choose GBIS?
How to Take Advantage
- Check eligibility: EPC rating, ownership/rental status, council tax band?
- Apply via supplier or local council: GBIS Flex extends reach
- Schedule a survey & retrofit by an accredited installer
- Enjoy lower energy bills and improved warmth!
The Great British Insulation Scheme offers a golden opportunity for energy performance benchmarking and household resilience. With up to £1 billion available, £400 annual savings, and long-term climate benefits, homeowners should consider GBIS before its scheduled end in March 2026.
