Homeownership can be costly, but government grants for homeowners are available to help improve energy efficiency, lower bills, and reduce carbon emissions. Funding is available for upgrades such as insulation, boiler replacements, solar panels, and heat pumps. Some schemes target low-income households, while others are open to all homeowners.
Understanding which grants and funding schemes you qualify for – and how to apply – can be challenging. Deciding which energy efficiency upgrades are right for you can also be challenging. At Falcon Energy, we offer expert energy assessments, advice, and consultation for domestic properties.
Contact us today to explore your options with our highly knowledgeable and professional team.
Home energy efficiency grants and schemes
Several government-funded schemes are available to help homeowners improve energy efficiency and reduce energy bills. These grants and schemes support upgrading insulation, heating systems, and more.
Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Scheme
The ECO4 scheme is funded by energy suppliers to improve home energy efficiency. It focuses on supporting low-income and vulnerable households and those living in poorly insulated homes. To qualify for ECO4, you must meet specific criteria, such as receiving certain income-related benefits or living in a house with a low energy efficiency rating (D, E, F, or G).
The scheme covers improvements like insulation, new boilers, heating systems, and solar panels. Applications can be made through energy suppliers or trusted contractors registered with the scheme. ECO4 is set to continue until March 2026.
Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)
The Home Upgrade Grant helps low-income households, particularly those not connected to the gas grid, improve their home’s energy efficiency. Eligible properties can receive funding for insulation, low-carbon heating systems like air-source heat pumps, and, in some cases, solar panels.
This grant began in 2025, with funding allocated to various local authorities.
Government Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme helps homeowners in England and Wales replace old gas boilers with low-carbon heating alternatives.
- Up to £7,500 is available for installing air-source and ground-source heat pumps.
- Up to £5,000 is available for biomass boilers.
This scheme is available to homeowners with old gas boilers looking for energy-efficient heating solutions. You can apply through Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) certified installers, who will handle the scheme application on your behalf. The scheme is set to run until the end of 2027.
Great British Insulation Scheme
Launched in 2023 and set to continue until March 2026, the Great British Insulation Scheme aims to help homeowners with low-income or poor insulation ratings by offering free or subsidised upgrades. The scheme provides support for loft insulation, cavity wall insulation, and solid wall insulation. Upgrading insulation can reduce heating costs and improve home comfort by preventing heat loss.
Discover our energy efficiency testing and certification services
Renewable energy schemes for homeowners
Solar panels
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) offers homeowners payments for any excess solar energy they generate and export back into the grid, providing an added financial incentive to install solar panels. A 0% VAT rate on solar panel installations is also available until 2027, making solar energy systems more affordable.
Heat pumps
As part of the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS), homeowners can access financial support for installing air or ground-source heat pumps, which provide an energy-efficient heating solution. Heat pumps can lower energy bills and offer a more eco-friendly alternative to traditional heating methods.
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Free windows and doors
Property owners in the UK may be eligible for free windows and doors available through the ECO4 scheme and local authority funding, helping to make homes more comfortable and energy-efficient.
To qualify for free double glazing or door replacements, homeowners must meet specific criteria, such as receiving benefits or having a low income. Those living in poorly insulated homes or areas with high levels of fuel poverty may also be eligible.
Replacing old windows and doors with double glazing significantly enhances insulation, helping to keep heat in and cold out. This leads to lower heating costs, making your home more energy-efficient and reducing the overall carbon footprint. To determine eligibility, contact your energy supplier or local authority.
Local authority and regional grants and schemes
In addition to national government schemes, local authorities and regional programmes across the UK may offer additional energy efficiency grants and schemes to help homeowners improve their energy performance. These can vary by area but may provide extra support for energy-saving upgrades.
To stay updated and to find out if you qualify for local energy efficiency grants and schemes, check with your local council or government websites for specific schemes available in your area.
How to apply for grants and schemes in the UK
Applying for homeowner grants and schemes to improve energy efficiency is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Check your eligibility: Start by checking whether you meet the eligibility criteria for the specific grant or scheme. Some are based on income, home condition, or existing energy efficiency.
- Choose the right scheme: Determine which scheme applies to your situation, such as the ECO4 scheme, Home Upgrade Grant, or Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
- Find an approved installer or supplier: Many schemes require using registered contractors. For example, under the ECO4 scheme, your energy supplier or an approved installer will handle the application process for insulation or boiler upgrades.
- Submit your application: Fill out the required forms online or with the help of your local council or energy supplier. Some schemes require an inspection of your home.
When applying, it’s essential to ensure you have the latest information. Grants and funding schemes can change or be updated regularly, and eligibility criteria may vary. To stay informed, regularly check official government websites, local council portals, and updates from your energy suppliers.
By keeping up to date, you ensure you don’t miss out on available funding, allowing you to make the most of the grants and schemes offered to improve your home’s energy efficiency.
Improve your property’s energy efficiency with Falcon Energy
With several key grants and schemes available, including the ECO4 Scheme, Home Upgrade Grant, and Boiler Upgrade Scheme, homeowners have many opportunities to reduce energy bills and lower their carbon footprint.
For tailored solutions and expert advice on energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions, contact our experts at Falcon Energy. We can assess your current energy performance and recommend and implement upgrades that save you money and support a more sustainable future.