What is the ECO4 Scheme?
The fourth Energy Company Obligation: energy suppliers fund insulation and heating upgrades for low-income households. It has been extended to 31 December 2026, when it ends.
ECO4, the fourth Energy Company Obligation, requires large energy suppliers to fund energy-efficiency upgrades for low-income and fuel-poor households in England, Scotland and Wales: loft, cavity and solid wall insulation, heating upgrades and heat pumps. Ofgem says it will run until 31 December 2026, following a nine-month extension, so work has to be installed by then. ECO4 funding can't be combined with other government grants on the same project.
Where it wins
- Upgrades can be fully funded for eligible households
- Covers insulation, heating upgrades and heat pumps
- Runs in England, Scotland and Wales until 31 December 2026
Where it struggles
- Ends 31 December 2026, so there is limited time left
- Strict income, benefit or council referral criteria
- Can't be combined with other government grants on the same project
How it works
01
Check eligibility: a means-tested benefit, low income through your council's ECO4 Flex route, or a referral
02
Apply through a participating energy supplier, installer or your council
03
A retrofit assessor surveys the home and recommends measures
04
The work has to be installed by 31 December 2026, when ECO4 ends
ECO4 Scheme: common questions
What is the ECO4 Scheme?
How does the ECO4 Scheme work?
See what home energy work costs in your town
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