ECO4 — Energy Company Obligation Scheme Guide (2026)
ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation phase 4) is a government scheme that requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in low-income and fuel-poor homes. Unlike the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, ECO4 is means-tested — eligibility depends on your household income or receipt of certain benefits.
- Cost to you
- Free or heavily subsidised
- Where
- England, Scotland & Wales
- Eligibility
- Income-tested or on benefits
- Who applies
- Your installer, on your behalf
Who is eligible?
ECO4 targets low-income and fuel-poor households. You are likely eligible if you receive any of the following:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Jobseeker's Allowance
- Employment and Support Allowance (income-related)
There is also an income-based route: households with a combined income under a threshold (typically £31,000, but check gov.uk for the current figure) in an energy inefficient home may qualify. Local councils can also refer households. Your property generally needs an EPC rating of D, E, F or G.
What does ECO4 cover?
- Loft, roof and cavity wall insulation
- Solid wall insulation (internal or external)
- Air-source heat pumps
- First-time central heating systems
- Solar PV panels (combined with other measures)
- Smart heating controls
How to apply
- 1Contact an energy supplier or an approved ECO4 installer — they assess your eligibility.
- 2An installer carries out a survey of your home to determine which measures are suitable.
- 3If approved, works are arranged and completed at no cost (or heavily subsidised) to you.
- 4The installer claims the funding directly from the energy company obligation pot.
2026 status
ECO4 was designed to run until March 2026. Government announcements regarding any successor scheme (ECO5 or equivalent) should be checked on gov.uk. If ECO4 has concluded, speak to your local council or energy supplier about any available replacement schemes — support for fuel-poor households is a long-running policy commitment.
Common questions about ECO4
Is ECO4 completely free?
For the most eligible households (on certain benefits) the work is typically free. For households who qualify via the income route, there may be a contribution required depending on the specific measure and installer. Always confirm costs upfront before work begins.
Can homeowners and renters both apply?
Yes — ECO4 covers both owner-occupiers and private renters. If you're a renter, the landlord's permission is usually required before any permanent measures (such as insulation or heating upgrades) can be installed.
How do I find an ECO4 installer?
You can contact your energy supplier directly, use the government's Simple Energy Advice service, or find a local installer and ask them about ECO4 eligibility. Installers must be TrustMark-registered to deliver ECO4 measures.
Can I get solar panels through ECO4?
Solar PV is included as a measure under ECO4, but usually only as part of a broader package alongside insulation or heating improvements. It is rarely funded as a standalone measure — speak to an installer to confirm your property's eligibility.
Ready to find your installer?
We match you with MCS-certified local installers who can deliver these schemes. Free quotes, no fees, usually within 24 hours.