Grants and Funding for Energy Upgrades
Which schemes are still open, who they are for, and where to apply. Checked against GOV.UK, Ofgem and the Scottish and Welsh governments in September 2026.
We are not a government body and we do not run any of these schemes. Energy Crisis UK is run by Better Home Hub Ltd, a private introduction service. Always confirm eligibility with the official scheme.
What has changed in 2026
- The Great British Insulation Scheme closed on 31 March 2026.
- ECO4 ends on 31 December 2026, and there will be no replacement supplier obligation.
- The Home Upgrade Grant (HUG2) has closed; in England the Warm Homes: Local Grant has taken its place.
- The Warm Homes Plan (updated March 2026) moves support to government grants and new low- and zero-interest loans.
Had external wall insulation fitted under ECO4 or GBIS? TrustMark offers affected homes a free Find & Fix audit.
Schemes and Support
Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)
Ends 31 December 2026England, Scotland and Wales
Insulation and heating upgrades for households on certain benefits, funded by the larger energy suppliers.
Who it is for
Usually a qualifying benefit (such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit) and an EPC of D–G if you own your home, or E–G if you rent privately. Councils can refer some other low-income households ("LA Flex"). Work must be finished before the scheme ends.
Warm Homes: Local Grant
Open (council-run)England only
Wall, loft and underfloor insulation, air source heat pumps, smart controls and solar panels, arranged and paid for by your council.
Who it is for
Privately owned homes with an EPC of D–G. Household income usually £36,000 a year or less, or some benefits or postcodes.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme
OpenEngland and Wales
£7,500 towards an air or ground source heat pump, £2,500 towards an air-to-air heat pump, £5,000 towards a biomass boiler. Extra £1,500 until March 2027 for oil- or LPG-heated homes without mains gas.
Who it is for
Property owners replacing fossil fuel heating (gas, oil, LPG or electric). Most new builds and social housing are not eligible. An MCS-certified installer applies for you.
Warm Homes Plan loans
Being introducedAnnounced by the UK government
The government has said it will offer low- and zero-interest loans for solar panels, home batteries and heat pumps, rolled out in phases.
Who it is for
Homeowners, regardless of income. Check GOV.UK for whether the loans are open yet and the rules.
0% VAT on energy-saving installations
Until 31 March 2027UK
No VAT on installing insulation, draught stripping, heating controls, solar panels, heat pumps or batteries in a home. Windows and doors are not included.
Who it is for
Applies automatically when an installer fits qualifying materials in residential accommodation.
Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland
Separate schemesScotland, Wales, Northern Ireland
Scotland: Home Energy Scotland grants of up to £7,500 for heat pumps and up to 75% of insulation costs (to £7,500), with optional interest-free loans. Wales: Nest offers free improvements to eligible lower-income households. Northern Ireland: grants through the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme.
Who it is for
Rules differ in each nation. Speak to the official advice service before arranging work.
Quick Scheme Finder
Three questions to see which schemes are worth looking into. A rough guide, not an eligibility decision.
1. Does anyone in your home receive means-tested benefits?
2. What is your EPC rating?
3. Is your home on the mains gas grid?
Frequently Asked Questions
Your next step
Thinking about an energy upgrade?
Tell us what you have in mind. It is free to ask and there is no obligation.