ECO4 Scheme UK 2026: Free Boiler, Insulation & Heat Pump Grants

The ECO4 scheme funds free boiler replacements, insulation, and heat pumps for low-income UK households. Extended to December 2026, the programme is now in its final phase with limited funding remaining. This guide explains who qualifies, what you can get, and how to apply before the scheme closes.

What Is the ECO4 Scheme?

The Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4) is a UK government programme that requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in low-income and fuel-poor households. It is the fourth iteration of the ECO programme, running from April 2022 to December 2026.

If you don’t qualify for ECO4, the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) closed to new applications in March 2026. In England, the council-run Warm Homes: Local Grant now offers a separate path to insulation support for low-income households; Scotland and Wales run their own separate schemes. Unlike the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (which offers a £7,500 discount), ECO4 can fund the entire cost of improvements – from a new boiler to full home insulation. The trade-off is stricter eligibility: you must be on qualifying benefits or have a low household income.

The scheme is delivered by the “Big Six” energy suppliers (British Gas, EDF, E.ON, OVO, Scottish Power, Octopus) and several smaller suppliers. They work with approved installers to carry out the work at no cost to you.

What Does ECO4 Cover?

ECO4 takes a “whole house” approach. Rather than funding a single measure, it aims to improve your home’s overall energy rating. Measures funded include:

Full list of ECO4 measures

The specific measures you receive depend on your home’s EPC assessment. An installer will survey your property and recommend the combination that delivers the biggest energy rating improvement.

Who Qualifies for ECO4?

There are two routes to qualify: through benefits or through your local authority’s flexible eligibility scheme (LA Flex).

Route 1: Qualifying benefits

You automatically qualify if you (or someone in your household) receives any of these benefits:

Route 2: LA Flex (no benefits needed)

Even without benefits, you may qualify through your local authority’s flexible eligibility scheme if:

• Your household income is under £31,000 per year
• You have a health condition worsened by cold housing
• You live in a fuel-poor area identified by your local council
• Your home has an EPC rating of E, F, or G

Contact your local council to check if you qualify under LA Flex. Each council sets its own criteria within the government’s framework.

Property requirements

How to Apply for ECO4

1. Check your EPC rating – Search your address at GOV.UK Find an Energy Certificate. You need a rating of D or below (owner) or E or below (renter).
2. Confirm your benefits or income – Have your benefit letter or proof of income ready. For LA Flex, contact your local council first.
3. Contact an ECO4 installer or your energy supplier – Call your energy supplier directly (British Gas, EDF, E.ON, OVO, Scottish Power, or Octopus) or use an approved ECO4 installer. They will check your eligibility.
4. Home survey – An assessor visits your property to determine which measures will deliver the best improvement to your EPC rating.
5. Installation – Approved installers carry out the work. The entire cost is covered by your energy supplier under their ECO4 obligation.

ECO4 vs Other Grant Schemes

You cannot combine ECO4 with the Boiler Upgrade Scheme for the same heating measure. But you can use ECO4 for insulation and BUS for a heat pump if you qualify for both. For a full overview of heating grants, see our UK boiler grants guide.

Laura Bennet

Home Energy & Sustainability Editor

Laura leads coverage on home energy, heating, and sustainable living. With over 12 years in the UK energy sector, she writes about boilers, solar panels, insulation, and eco-friendly upgrades that reduce household costs.

Reviewed by

Tom Reynolds

Business Energy Specialist