ECO4 closes permanently on 31 December 2026. The Government has confirmed the ECO supplier-obligation model is ending. Here’s what you need to know — and what your options are before and after closure.
ECO4 is the UK’s primary supplier-obligation scheme for free insulation and heating improvements for eligible households. It closes permanently at the end of 2026. This page explains what that means and what your options are.
The Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4) scheme requires energy suppliers to fund energy-efficiency measures for eligible households. Measures include loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, external wall insulation and heating improvements. The scheme runs until 31 December 2026 and is not expected to be renewed as a further ECO scheme.
The Government has confirmed the Energy Company Obligation model is ending. The Warm Homes Plan — a publicly funded successor — is the Government’s stated direction. Currently active programmes that will continue beyond December 2026 include:
Warm Homes: Local Grant Currently open. Solar, insulation, heat pumps, batteries. EPC D–G, income up to £36,000. England only.
Warm Homes Loan Scheme Consumer rollout Rollout developing — consumer products launching as lenders are approved. Subsidised finance for homeowners who don't qualify for grants.
ECO5? Not confirmed. The Government has not announced an ECO5 scheme. Do not rely on commercial websites claiming ECO5 is launching.
Act now if you may qualify: If your household receives qualifying benefits, has low income, or lives in a property with EPC D–G, check ECO4 eligibility immediately. Installations must be completed before 31 December 2026.
ECO4 eligibility is based on: receiving qualifying benefits (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc.), low household income, or living in a low-income area with an EPC of D–G.
Check my ECO4 eligibility free →As of August 2026, ECO4 is confirmed to close on 31 December 2026. There is no confirmed extension. The Government has stated the ECO supplier-obligation model is ending.
No confirmed ECO5 scheme exists. Several websites are claiming this, but the Government has not made this announcement. The Warm Homes Plan is the stated Government direction.
Yes. ECO4 is still open. Applications and installations must be completed before 31 December 2026. Contact an ECO4 registered installer or check eligibility through your local council.