ECO4 Scheme: Free Insulation & Heating Upgrades
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The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is a UK government scheme that requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in eligible households. It provides free insulation and heating upgrades to low-income and vulnerable households.
The UK government has confirmed a 9-month extension to ECO4, moving the end date from March 2026 to 31 December 2026. No successor supplier obligation scheme has been announced. We recommend applying while funding is still available.
What does ECO4 cover?
Insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Loft insulation
- Solid wall insulation (internal or external)
- Underfloor insulation
- Room-in-roof insulation
Heating
- First-time central heating
- Boiler replacement (in some cases)
- Heating controls and smart thermostats
Who qualifies for ECO4?
You're likely eligible if you meet one or more of the following:
- You receive a qualifying benefit (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, JSA, ESA, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, or Working Tax Credit)
- Your household income is below your council's LA Flex threshold (typically £31,000–£38,000 depending on household size) under Local Authority Flexibility (LA Flex) — exact thresholds vary by council
- Your property has an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G
- You are a homeowner or private tenant (social housing tenants should contact their landlord about ECO4 improvements)
How much can you save?
ECO4 vs. other schemes
| Feature | ECO4 | Warm Homes Plan | Warm Homes Local Grant |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max grant | Varies by property | £15,000 | £30,000 |
| Covers insulation | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Covers heat pumps | Limited | Yes | Yes |
| Ending date | December 2026 | Ongoing | March 2028 |
| Coverage | England, Scotland & Wales | England (policy framework) | England only |
What happens after ECO4 ends?
The UK government has confirmed that no successor supplier obligation scheme will follow ECO4. Instead, the government has committed £1.5 billion in additional grant funding for low-income household upgrades through the Warm Homes Plan (bringing total investment to nearly £15 billion). Other grants such as the Warm Homes Local Grant (England) and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme will continue to operate beyond December 2026.
Note: The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) closed to new applications on 31 January 2026 and ended on 31 March 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Is ECO4 still running in 2026?
Yes, ECO4 has been extended to 31 December 2026. The original end date was March 2026. No successor supplier obligation scheme has been announced.
What is ECO4 LA Flex?
LA Flex (Local Authority Flexibility) allows councils to set their own eligibility criteria for ECO4, typically based on household income (usually £31,000-£38,000) rather than requiring qualifying benefits. Check with your local council for their specific thresholds.
Can tenants apply for ECO4?
Yes, both private tenants and homeowners can apply. Private tenants need landlord consent. Social housing tenants should contact their housing provider about ECO4-funded improvements to their block or estate.
Is ECO4 available in Northern Ireland?
No, ECO4 covers Great Britain only (England, Scotland, and Wales). Northern Ireland has its own Affordable Warmth Scheme for energy efficiency improvements.
What happens after ECO4 ends?
No successor supplier obligation scheme has been announced. Other grants like the Warm Homes Local Grant (England) and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme will continue. Apply for ECO4 while funding is still available.
Find ECO4 Scheme in your area
See how ECO4 Scheme works in your area, including local council schemes, eligibility criteria, and nearby installers.
Other available grants
Related guides
ECO4 Extended to December 2026
What the ECO4 extension means, what changed, and how to apply before it ends.
Cavity Wall Insulation Grants 2026
Free cavity wall insulation through ECO4 and Warm Homes Local Grant.
Free Loft Insulation Grants 2026
How to get free loft insulation — eligibility, how to apply, what to expect.
GBIS Has Ended — What Replaces It
What happened to GBIS and which schemes replace it in 2026.
ECO4 closes December 2026
Check in 2 minutes whether you qualify for free insulation before the scheme closes on 31 December 2026.
Check Your Eligibility