The ECO4 grant, short for Energy Company Obligation Phase 4, is part of the UK government’s effort to help low-income households improve energy efficiency and reduce heating bills. Running from April 2022 to March 2026, the grant is funded by larger energy companies, who are required to pay for energy-saving upgrades in homes across England, Scotland, and Wales.

ECO4 replaces the previous ECO3 phase, bringing in updated rules, more focused support, and a bigger emphasis on low-carbon heating and whole-house energy performance.

What Does the ECO4 Grant Cover?

The ECO4 grant takes a whole-home approach. That means it looks at everything, from heating to insulation to ventilation, to make sure the entire home becomes more energy efficient.

Here’s what the grant can fund:

  • Insulation: Loft, cavity wall, underfloor, and solid wall insulation
  • Heating system upgrades: Replacing outdated boilers with modern A-rated ones
  • Renewable heating options: Including air-source heat pumps, solar panels, and smart electric systems for homes off the gas grid
  • Ventilation improvements: To reduce damp, mould, and maintain healthy indoor air quality

Multiple improvements can be carried out together, and the cost is 100% covered.

Who Qualifies for the ECO4 Grant?

The ECO4 grant is primarily for households most affected by high energy costs. Eligibility depends on both your home’s energy efficiency rating and your financial circumstances.

You may qualify if:

  • Your home has an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D to G
  • You or someone in your household receives one or more qualifying benefits, such as:
    • Universal Credit
    • Income Support
    • Pension Credit
    • Housing Benefit
    • Child Benefit (subject to income thresholds)
    • ESA or JSA
    • Working/Child Tax Credit

Other Eligibility Routes:

You might still be eligible through LA Flex. This is a local council-led extension of the funding that helps households with:

  • A combined household income under £31,000 per year
  • Someone in the home has a health condition made worse by the cold, such as:
    • Respiratory illness
    • Cardiovascular issues
    • Mobility limitations
    • Cancer or immune disorders
    • Neurological conditions

Read More: ECO4 Eligibility For Social Housing

How Much Support Can You Get?

The amount of help depends on your home and what work is needed. Some households receive £7,000 to £20,000 or more in energy-saving upgrades, completely free of charge.

The aim is to make the biggest impact — especially in homes that are colder, less efficient, and more expensive to run.

How to Apply for an ECO4 Grant

Here’s what the process looks like:

  1. Check if you’re eligible through the simple eligibility checker by Consumer Rights
  2. Consumer Rights will talk you through the application process, and find you a local, highly vetted and government approved installer to carry out the upgrades.

Installation begins — work is carried out by certified professionals.

Who Oversees the ECO4 Grant?

While it’s funded by energy companies, the ECO4 grant is regulated by Ofgem, the government’s energy regulator. Ofgem ensures the grant is being delivered fairly, and that all work meets proper quality standards.

TrustMark is the official government-endorsed body responsible for approving and registering installers — so you’ll know the work is being done by properly vetted professionals.’

Is the ECO4 Grant Making a Difference?

Yes — and in a big way. As of early 2025, over 100,000 households have received help through the ECO4 grant. Reported benefits include:

  • Lower energy bills (with savings often exceeding £500 a year)
  • Homes that are warmer in winter and cooler in summer
  • Fewer draughts and damp issues
  • Overall better living conditions

The ECO4 grant is a powerful tool in the fight against fuel poverty and climate change. If you’re living in a draughty home and struggling with energy bills, this grant could be a real game-changer — and best of all, it often comes at no cost to you.