The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) is a UK government initiative launched in 2023 to help households reduce energy bills and carbon emissions by improving home insulation. Targeting low-to-middle-income families and vulnerable groups, it provides free or subsidized insulation upgrades like loft and cavity wall insulation. The scheme aims to cover 300,000 homes by 2026.
How Does the Great British Insulation Scheme Work?
The GBIS partners with energy suppliers to fund insulation upgrades for eligible households. Applicants undergo a property assessment to identify cost-effective insulation measures. Installation costs are partially or fully covered based on income and property type. The scheme prioritizes easy-to-install measures to maximize participation and energy savings.
Who Qualifies for the Great British Insulation Scheme?
Eligibility depends on household income, property energy performance, and location. Homes in Council Tax bands A–D in England or A–E in Scotland/Wales automatically qualify. Vulnerable households (e.g., recipients of benefits like Universal Credit) and those with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below are prioritized.
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Local authorities use a three-tier verification system: 1) Automatic qualification through Council Tax bands, 2) Benefit-based eligibility requiring documentation of income support, and 3) Property-specific assessments for homes exceeding EPC thresholds. Renters can apply through landlord cooperation, with 40% of current beneficiaries being tenants in social housing. Regional variations exist – for example, Welsh applicants receive additional support through Nest Wales partnership programs.
What Types of Insulation Are Covered Under GBIS?
The scheme funds loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, solid wall insulation, and underfloor insulation. Secondary measures like draught-proofing and radiator panels may also be included. Installations must meet British Standards and be performed by TrustMark-registered contractors to ensure quality.
| Insulation Type | Average Cost Covered | Energy Saving Potential |
|---|---|---|
| Loft Insulation | £400-£600 | 20% heating cost reduction |
| Cavity Wall | £500-£1,200 | 15% annual bill saving |
| Solid Wall | £4,000-£8,000 | 67% heat loss prevention |
How Does GBIS Compare to Previous Energy Schemes?
Unlike the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4), which focuses on low-income households, GBIS expands eligibility to middle-income families. It simplifies application processes and targets “fabric-first” upgrades rather than renewable energy installations. Funding is distributed faster, with less paperwork required for approval.
| Feature | GBIS | ECO4 |
|---|---|---|
| Income Threshold | Up to £31,000 | Up to £19,000 |
| Installation Focus | Insulation only | Heating systems + insulation |
| Average Processing Time | 3 weeks | 6 weeks |
What Are the Long-Term Savings from GBIS Upgrades?
Households can save £300–£400 annually on energy bills through GBIS upgrades. Solid wall insulation alone reduces heat loss by 67%, while loft insulation cuts heating costs by 20%. Over 15 years, total savings may exceed £6,000, with a 20% increase in property value for well-insulated homes.
Actual savings vary by property size and regional climate. A semi-detached home in Manchester typically saves £340/year through cavity wall insulation, while a terraced house in Newcastle might save £290/year. These figures account for projected energy price increases of 4% annually. The BRE Group estimates that combining loft and wall insulation creates cumulative savings equivalent to 8 years of average UK household electricity consumption.
How Does GBIS Impact UK Carbon Emissions?
The scheme aims to reduce UK household carbon emissions by 1.2 million tonnes annually by 2026. Proper insulation decreases reliance on gas heating, aligning with the UK’s 2050 net-zero target. Widespread adoption could cut national energy consumption for heating by 15%.
What Are Common Misconceptions About GBIS?
Myths include beliefs that the scheme only covers detached homes (false—all housing types qualify) and that renters cannot apply (landlords can request upgrades). Another misconception is that installations disrupt households; most insulation work is completed within 4–6 hours.
“The GBIS is a game-changer for tackling fuel poverty. By focusing on insulation first, it addresses the root cause of high energy use. However, public awareness remains low—only 18% of eligible households have applied. Local councils must collaborate with community groups to boost uptake.”
— Energy Efficiency Advisor, UK Sustainable Housing Trust
FAQs
- Can I Apply for GBIS If I Already Have Some Insulation?
- Yes—if your current insulation doesn’t meet recommended thickness (270mm for lofts), you may qualify for top-up upgrades.
- How Long Does the Application Process Take?
- Approval typically takes 2–4 weeks. Installations occur within 6 weeks of approval.
- Does GBIS Cover New Build Homes?
- No—the scheme applies only to homes built before 2022.