The UK’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is in its next phase, the ECO5 Scheme, which focuses on environmental sustainability and enhanced energy efficiency. In order to lower carbon emissions and assist the UK government in achieving its net-zero aim. Eco5 Scheme introducing new technologies such as heat pumps, solar panels, smart thermostat and insulation upgrades. Check Your Eligibility for ECO4 Now with Apply Energy Grants
ECO4 Scheme – Still Running Until 2026
Do you not want to wait for ECO5? Apply now for the ECO4 Scheme!
Homeowners are the target of the ECO4 Scheme. If they are eligible, tenants may apply with the landlord’s consent. Tenants may be encouraged to apply by their landlords (both parties must agree).
Benefits and Income: You are likely to obtain qualifying benefits if your household has a low income (no benefits? We may be able to aid through other programs).
Property Type and Condition: Households in fuel poverty or with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) grade of D or lower are given priority.
Apply Now for ECO4 with Apply Energy Grants.
ECO5 Scheme Understanding: Regulations for the ECO5 Scheme
Eco5 Grant: What Is It?
The UK government’s ECO5 plan aims to increase the use of clean energy sources, such as heat pumps and solar panels, in homes and decrease energy consumption in accordance with carbon-saving obligations.
This phase represents an extension of earlier attempts to make our energy consumption more sustainable, not only a continuation of the ECO4 Scheme.
Such initiatives, which assist in reducing pollution from houses, are essential to achieving the UK’s aim of having zero net emissions by 2050, according to the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy.
Timeline and Execution
Funding for ECO5 is expected to become available in 2026, immediately following the conclusion of ECO4, and, should Labour choose to proceed, will probably last until 2030. This time frame corresponds with significant benchmarks outlined in the UK’s Net Zero Strategy, which includes short-term goals.
By 2030, greenhouse gas emissions will have decreased by 68% from 1990 levels.
What the ECO5 Scheme Will Provide?
Here is what we believe ECO5’s assistance will prioritize in order to make it easier to understand:
- Solar Panels
ECO5 will assist homes in harnessing solar energy by promoting the installation of solar panels, hence lowering carbon emissions and dependency on fossil fuels.
- Air Source Heat PumpsÂ
ECO-5 will encourage the use of air source heat pumps, which effectively heat homes by drawing heat from the outside air, even during colder months, resulting in reduced energy expenses and carbon footprints.
- Smart Heating Controls
Improved heating controls with ECO5 provide more accurate control of home heating systems, guaranteeing that energy is used more sparingly and efficiently, reducing waste and expenses.
If you don’t want to wait until 2026, you can still benefit from the ongoing ECO4 Boiler Replacement Scheme today.
ECO5 vs ECO4 – What’s Different?
- ECO4 (2022–2026): Focused on boiler replacements, insulation, and EPC upgrades for low-income homes.
- ECO5 (2026–2030): Adds solar panels, smart thermostats, and advanced renewables while still supporting insulation and heating upgrades.
Find Out If You Qualify for a Free Boiler with Apply Energy Grants
ECO5 Timeline
- Now – March 2026: ECO4 applications are open.
- April 2026 – March 2030: ECO5 launches.
- By 2030: UK aims for 68% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions (compared to 1990 levels).
FAQs – ECO5 Grant Explained
Who qualifies for an ECO5 grant?
Eligibility is expected to be based on a home’s carbon footprint and EPC rating (D–G). Low-income households, those in fuel poverty, and vulnerable residents will be prioritised. Final criteria will be confirmed after government consultation in 2025.
Is the ECO scheme still running?
Yes, the ECO4 Scheme is open until March 2026. After that, ECO5 will take over.
How does the ECO5 scheme work?
ECO5 works by obligating major UK energy companies to fund energy-saving home improvements. Grants will cover technologies like solar panels, heat pumps, and insulation to reduce bills and emissions.
What is the ECO scheme in 2025?
In 2025, the ECO4 Scheme is still active. It covers free boiler replacements, insulation, and heating upgrades for qualifying households across England, Scotland, and Wales.
Final Thoughts
The ECO5 Scheme (2026–2030) will be a game-changer in the UK’s journey to net-zero homes. With support for solar energy, heat pumps, and smart controls, households can look forward to lower bills and warmer homes.
But why wait until 2026? If you qualify for the ECO4 Boiler Replacement Scheme, you could already get a free boiler upgrade today. Check Your ECO4 Eligibility with Apply Energy Grants
