Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)
ECO4 is the fourth phase of the government’s energy efficiency scheme in Great Britain. Unlike other grants that focus on single items, ECO4 takes a “whole house” approach to significantly improve the energy performance of a property.
What is covered?
Depending on the assessment of your home, ECO4 can cover:
- Loft, wall, and floor insulation
- Draft proofing
- Air source heat pumps
- Solar PV panels
- Smart heating controls
- Repairs or upgrades to existing heating systems
Eligibility
You may be eligible for ECO4 if you:
- Receive certain benefits, such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit, or Income Support.
- Live in social housing with an EPC rating of E, F, or G.
- Qualify under “LA Flex”: Local authorities can refer households that are low-income or vulnerable but do not receive the specific benefits listed above.
How it works
The scheme is funded by medium and large energy suppliers. To access the funding:
- Contact an energy supplier (it doesn’t have to be your own) or your local authority.
- They will arrange for a Retrofit Assessment of your property.
- A package of measures will be designed specifically for your home to move it up at least two EPC bands (e.g., from E to C).
- If approved, the work is carried out at no or very low cost to the resident.
ECO4 is intended to run until March 2026. It is specifically targeted at those in fuel poverty or with high heating costs.