Skip to content 
Guidance
When Does ECO4 End and What Comes After?
- From: Kevin Smith
- Published 20 December 2024
The government ECO4 scheme has served millions of homes with free heating system upgrades since July 2022. Not just that, it has installed free insulation to minimise the energy-loss and save bills. More so, the government is also granting free solar panels with renewable heating systems like heat pumps.
But like all previous phases of the Energy Company Obligation, ECO4 will eventually end. Those living in fuel-poverty are concerned about when the ECO4 ends. Also, what will be coming next? Whether the future scheme will be more flexible or even more strict than ECO4? These, and more few questions are amongst the most recent concerns shown by many UK households.
We will try to cover all these concerns in this blog. First, let’s highlight ECO4 achievements since its launch. Only by then, we will be in a better position to predict what comes after ECO4, when we know its feasibility to understand what’s coming next.
ECO4 Half-way Achievements
At its halfway point, ECO4 has made significant strides. Here are some achievements as of September 2024:
- Heat Pumps: Over 18,000 heat pump installations have been completed. These systems help use renewable energy to heat homes more efficiently.
- Boilers: There have been 60,686 upgrades to boiler systems. This helps families save on energy costs and stay warm.
- Cavity Wall Insulation: More than 46,093 homes have benefited from cavity wall insulation. This measure reduces heat loss and improves comfort.
- Loft Insulation: So far, more than 81,724 loft insulation measures have been installed in the UK homes that helped save up to 35% heat-loss during winters.
- Solar Panels: A total of 29,916 installations of solar panels have helped many households generate their own energy. These solar PV system is becoming popular.
- Smart Heating Controls: Around 299,313 installations of smart heating controls have been reported. These allow better management of heating, leading to energy savings.
The total number of installations across these categories highlights ECO4’s impact on energy efficiency in the UK. The goal is to reach more homes and support those in need.
Why Does the Government Offer ECO Grants?
The government offers ECO grants to help people save energy. This target aims at Treasury saving energy expenses and minimising carbon footprints. These objectives are part of the UK’s overall ambition of reaching a carbon-free status by the year 2050.
The government thus lessens energy demand also by assisting people in renovations of their houses. This is crucial because the UK aims to utilise renewables more and more.
What Are the Benefits of ECO4?
ECO4 offers many benefits to households. First, it helps reduce energy bills. By upgrading insulation and heating, homes use less energy. This means households pay less for heating and electricity.
Second, ECO4 helps make homes more comfortable. Insulation keeps home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. This makes living conditions better for everyone, especially vulnerable people like the elderly.
Lastly, ECO4 helps the environment. By reducing energy use, the program helps lower carbon emissions. This is important for fighting climate change.
When Will ECO4 End?
As of now, ECO4 is set to end in March 2026. After this, the scheme will no longer be available to new applicants. However, people who have already applied may still receive help.
It is important to apply before the deadline to benefit from ECO4. The end date is unlikely to change, so make sure to act soon.
Check Eligibility For ECO4 Grant!
If you or any of your household is on benefits, you may be eligible for ECO4 Grant.
Has ECO4 Been Extended?
There has been no official announcement yet about extending ECO4 beyond 2026. The original timeline remains in place. It will finish in March 2026. This means households have until then to apply for support and grants under this scheme.
Note: It is important to apply before the deadline to benefit from ECO4. The end date is unlikely to change, so make sure to act soon.
However, given the success of previous phases like ECO3, it’s possible that similar schemes might follow once ECO4 ends. As part of the UK’s larger net-zero aspirations, policymakers will probably keep pushing energy efficiency, even if no official decisions have been made.
What’s The Latest Thing Going on About ECO4?
The ECO4 scheme has introduced updates to streamline the application process and ensure better collaboration with local authorities through the ECO4 Flex mechanism. More families may now benefit from this, especially those who may not have met the usual qualifying requirements but have been classified as vulnerable. In addition, the government has started the Great British Insulation Scheme, which speeds up the installation of energy-saving devices in conjunction with ECO4.
Recently, ECO4 has been in the news due to its progress in helping families. Many households have received support for energy-efficient upgrades. Updates from Ofgem show the number of installations is steadily increasing. This information is vital for anyone considering applying for help.
What Comes After ECO4?
While ECO4 will end in 2026, the government may introduce new grant schemes. The United Kingdom is dedicated to lowering carbon emissions and enhancing the energy economy. The success of ECO4 may encourage the continuation of initiatives of a similar kind. However, this depends on future government decisions and funding.
It is likely that after ECO4, there will be a similar scheme. This new scheme could continue to offer grants and other help to households. The details are not yet known, but the government will likely announce a follow-up scheme closer to 2026. Families should stay informed about any new developments. Joining community newsletters or following local government updates can help.
Will the New Scheme Be Like ECO4?
It is hard to say exactly what the new grant scheme will look like. However, it is likely to be similar to ECO4. The government has already had four phases of the ECO scheme, and each one has been successful.
The new program might offer similar grants for insulation, heating systems, and renewable energy. It could also have similar eligibility requirements to ECO4, meaning that low-income households may benefit.
How to Apply for ECO4 Grants?
To apply for ECO4, you need to find an approved installer like Free Government Grants. The installer will check if your home qualifies for the scheme. They will also help you through the application process.
The process is simple and does not take much time. Once approved, the upgrades can be done at no cost to you. Make sure to apply well before March 2026, as the scheme restrictions are strict or it will end after that.
What If You Miss the ECO4 Deadline?
If you miss the ECO4 deadline, you will no longer be able to apply for grants under this scheme. On the other hand, this does not mean that there will be no other grants to apply for in the future. The government keeps on coming up with new schemes on energy efficiency.
You can also look into local council or energy supplier grants. These may offer similar help even after ECO4 ends.
How Can You Prepare for the End of ECO4?
If you think you qualify for ECO4, now is the time to act. Contact an approved installer and start the application process. This way, you can still benefit from the scheme before it ends.
Keep an eye on government announcements for any future programs. If there is a follow-up scheme, it will likely be announced before ECO4 ends. Stay informed so that you can take advantage of any new opportunities.
What Changes May Happen After ECO4?
We can expect some changes after ECO4 ends. One possibility is that the government will increase the focus on renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Another change may be stricter rules on energy efficiency for all homes. This might translate to new funding towards the installation of green energy units like heat pumps and solar panels. The UK has set a target to be net zero by 2050 and this will heavily rely on the use of renewable energies.
Who Is Eligible for ECO4?
Aiming at low-income families is ECO4. You must be a private renter or homeowner whose household receives certain government subsidies in order to qualify. These may consist of tax credits or advantages based on income.
Whether you’re not sure whether you qualify, you may get free assistance from Free Government Grants. Simply send us a message or get in touch with us, and we’ll verify your eligibility and help you with the application process.
The Bottom Line
ECO4 is a valuable initiative that ends in March 2026. Although it has not been extended, its achievements so far are promising. Families may utilise the provided help till 2026. Watch this space for updates and news regarding potential future developments.
While the exact details of what comes after ECO4 are not yet clear, it is likely that the UK government will announce either a fifth phase or extend the existing phase. Keep abreast with government news and stay informed. You may increase the efficiency of your house and keep receiving benefits from energy-saving initiatives by doing this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, the government has allocated around £1 Billion annual funding to keep ECO4 running until March 2026. However, it is always a good idea to apply sooner rather than later. This ensures you can benefit from the scheme before the funds run out.
It’s yet undetermined whether the scheme will proceed to its fifth phase or continue with an extended version like ECO2t previously.
