This page explains who the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is aimed at. It’s here for reference: ECO4 runs until 31 December 2026, and Consumer Rights can no longer help with ECO4 applications. If you’re looking for help now, see what you can get now.
Who Is ECO4 Aimed At?
ECO4 requires larger energy suppliers to fund energy-efficiency improvements for low-income and vulnerable households. Homeowners, private tenants and landlords with qualifying tenants can be covered, and less energy-efficient homes (those with a low EPC rating) are prioritised.
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The Benefits Route
The main route into ECO4 is through benefits: someone in the household receiving a qualifying benefit, such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit. The full list is published by Ofgem and on GOV.UK.
What About Households Not on Benefits?
That’s where ECO4 Flex (often called LA Flex) comes in. Councils, and the Scottish and Welsh governments, can refer low-income or vulnerable households who aren’t on qualifying benefits, and suppliers can refer some households in fuel debt. Each council sets out its own criteria in a Statement of Intent. ECO4 Flex is part of ECO4, so it ends with ECO4 on 31 December 2026.
What Kinds of Upgrades Can ECO4 Fund?
Measures can include:
- Boiler replacements
- Electric storage heaters
- Internal wall insulation
- Cavity wall insulation
- Loft insulation
- Solar panels
- Air source heat pumps
Ofgem, which administers the scheme, says ECO “is not a grant scheme”: energy suppliers decide what they fund, you may be asked to contribute, and being eligible doesn’t guarantee an installation.
Can Consumer Rights Help Me Apply?
No. Consumer Rights can no longer help with ECO4 applications. Be cautious of anyone cold-calling about “free ECO4 grants” — see how to spot ECO scams.
What You Can Get Now
- You can apply for a free home battery or register your interest in the free home battery scheme.
- In England, look at the Warm Homes: Local Grant, which is delivered by councils.
- Thinking about a heat pump? See the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (England and Wales).
- Compare all home energy grants or browse our grants and funding hub.
Already had ECO4 work done and something has gone wrong? See our guide to ECO4 complaints.
ECO4 Support Available:
- Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy: Energy Company Obligation
- Ofgem: Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Guidance: Delivery V1.1
- Ofgem: Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
- UK Government: Help from your energy supplier: the Energy Company Obligation
- Which?: Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
Other Support Available: