ECO4 scheme
ECO4 can fund energy-efficiency improvements in eligible Great Britain homes, but it is not a universal grant or guarantee of free work.
Plain-English summary
ECO4 is an energy-company obligation, not a grant you can demand from government. Suppliers decide which eligible retrofit projects they fund and how much support they provide.
Key facts
- Applies in Great Britain: England, Scotland and Wales.
- Ofgem says ECO4 runs until 31 December 2026.
- It focuses on lower-efficiency homes and households in fuel poverty.
- Eligibility does not guarantee a free boiler, solar panels or every upgrade advertised online.
Who may qualify?
Ofgem describes three broad pathways: Help to Heat Group benefits, poor-efficiency social housing, and ECO4 Flex routes where local authorities, the Scottish and Welsh Governments or suppliers identify eligible households.
Benefits can include Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based JSA, income-related ESA, Housing Benefit and others, but benefit receipt alone is not the full test.
What can ECO4 fund?
Possible measures include insulation, first-time central heating, renewable heating, district heating connections and innovation measures. ECO4 is designed as a whole-house improvement route for poor energy-performing homes.
Scam and advertising warning
Be cautious with adverts promising guaranteed free boilers or instant entitlement. Check the provider, ask who is funding the work, do not pay upfront pressure fees, and verify the route with Ofgem or your council.
Official sources
Before you apply
This guide is general information only. Confirm details with the official source before applying, starting work or signing a contract.