Understanding UK Energy Grants in 2026
The UK government offers several energy grant programmes to help homeowners and tenants improve their home's energy efficiency, reduce bills, and cut carbon emissions. In 2026, these schemes represent a significant opportunity to get free or heavily subsidised home improvements—but many are due to end soon.
This comprehensive guide covers every major energy grant available in the UK in 2026, including who's eligible, key deadlines, and exactly how to apply. Whether you're looking for free insulation, a new heat pump, or help with your energy bills, there's likely a grant that can help.
Important: Several major schemes are ending in 2026. ECO4 ending December 2026 31 December 2026, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme ends 31 March 2026, and GBIS ends 31 March 2026. If you're eligible, apply as soon as possible to avoid missing out.
UK Energy Grants at a Glance
Here's a quick overview of the main energy grants available in 2026:
| Scheme | Funding | Deadline | Key Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| ECO4 | Free | 31 Dec 2026 | Benefits recipients, EPC D or below |
| Boiler Upgrade Scheme | £5,000-£7,500 | 31 Mar 2026 | Homeowners, existing gas boiler |
| GBIS | Free | 31 Mar 2026 | Council tax bands A-D (England) |
| Warm Home Discount | £150 | Annual (2026-27) | Pension Credit or low income |
ECO4 Scheme — Free Energy Improvements for Benefits Recipients
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is the UK's flagship energy efficiency scheme, providing free insulation, heating upgrades, and other energy-saving measures to households that need them most. ECO4 runs until 31 December 2026, making it one of the longest-running schemes available.
What Does ECO4 Cover?
ECO4 funds a wide range of energy-saving improvements:
- Insulation: Cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, solid wall insulation, underfloor insulation
- Heating: Air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, biomass boilers, electric storage heaters
- Boilers: Gas boiler replacements (for those not on the gas grid)
- Other measures: Smart thermostats, draught proofing, radiator panels, window repairs
Who Qualifies for ECO4?
To be eligible for ECO4, you must meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Benefits-based eligibility: You receive Universal Credit, Pension Credit (guaranteed credit), Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), Employment and Support Allowance (ESA), Working Tax Credit, Child Tax Credit, Housing Benefit, Income Support, or Disability Living Allowance
- Property requirement: Your home must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below
- Referral: You can also qualify if referred by your local council, NHS, or social housing provider as a vulnerable household
Landlords: Under ECO4, landlords can access grants for their properties, but the tenant must meet the eligibility criteria. Private rented sector landlords should contact their energy supplier to discuss options.
How to Apply for ECO4
applying for ECO4 is straightforward:
- Check your eligibility — Use our free eligibility checker to see if you qualify
- Get a survey — A qualified assessor visits your home to identify improvements
- Installation — Approved installers carry out the work at no cost to you