Last updated: June 30, 2026 | By Evolving Home Team
UK Home Energy Grants 2026: BUS, ECO4, GBIS and Local Help
UK homeowners may qualify for grants or partial funding towards insulation, heat pumps, and other upgrades — but eligibility rules, installer requirements, and scheme availability change. Verify against GOV.UK and your local authority before assuming any measure is fully funded.
Check before you assume "free"
Some schemes fully fund work for eligible households; others contribute a fixed grant (for example BUS towards heat pumps) and you pay the remainder. Income, tenure, EPC rating, and property type all affect outcomes — always confirm in writing with an MCS-accredited installer or scheme administrator.
Major Energy Grant Schemes for 2026
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
Government-funded scheme providing £7,500 towards heat pump installations
ECO4 Insulation Scheme
Free insulation for eligible low-income and vulnerable households
Great British Insulation Scheme
Free loft and cavity wall insulation for hard-to-treat homes
Home Upgrade Grant
£8,000 towards energy efficiency improvements
Local Authority Grants
Additional funding from local councils and authorities
Eligibility Criteria
Most energy grants have similar eligibility requirements. You may qualify if you meet one or more of these criteria:
How to Apply for Energy Grants
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Use our free eligibility checker to see which grants you qualify for based on your income, property details, and current energy efficiency.
Step 2: Get a Quote
Contact approved installers who can assess your property and provide grant-funded quotes. Look for TrustMark or MCS accredited contractors.
Step 3: Submit Application
Most schemes require installer-led applications. Your chosen contractor will handle the paperwork and ensure compliance with grant requirements.
Step 4: Installation and Payment
Once approved, the work is carried out and the grant is paid directly to the installer, meaning you pay nothing (or reduced amounts) for qualifying improvements.
Popular Grant-Funded Improvements
| Improvement | Typical Cost | Grant Coverage | Your Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Loft Insulation | £500 | 100% | £0 |
| Cavity Wall Insulation | £800 | 100% | £0 |
| Air Source Heat Pump | £10,000 | £7,500 (BUS) | £2,500 |
| Solar PV Panels | £6,000 | Up to £2,500 | £3,500 |
| Double Glazing | £4,000 | £1,000-£2,000 | £2,000-£3,000 |
Common Grant Mistakes to Avoid
- Not checking eligibility first: Apply for grants you don't qualify for
- Using non-approved installers: Only MCS accredited contractors can access grants
- Rushing installations: Ensure proper surveys and quotes before committing
- Missing deadlines: Some grants have limited funding and close early
- Not claiming all available funding: Combine multiple grants where possible
Local Authority Grants
In addition to national schemes, many local authorities offer supplementary grants:
- London Boroughs: Additional £500-£1,000 for qualifying improvements
- Northern Powerhouse: Extra funding for energy efficiency in northern regions
- Rural areas: Specific grants for off-gas properties in countryside locations
- Historic buildings: Specialized funding for period properties
Check your local council website or contact them directly to see available programs.
Future Changes (2026-2028)
The government has announced plans to expand grant funding:
- Increased BUS funding: More money for heat pump installations
- Expanded ECO4: More households eligible for free insulation
- New green mortgage incentives: Lower rates for energy-efficient homes
- Proposed EPC improvements: Government has proposed mandatory EPC improvements for some property sales; timelines and scope are not final — check official guidance
See Which Upgrades Fit Your Home First
Run an indicative Health Score to understand your property context, then cross-check grant routes on GOV.UK and with installers. We do not guarantee eligibility or funding outcomes.
Check Your Home ScoreFrequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay anything for grant-funded work?
For fully-funded schemes like ECO4, you pay nothing. For part-funded schemes like BUS, you pay the difference between the grant amount and total cost.
How long does the application process take?
Most applications take 2-4 weeks for approval, depending on the scheme and your circumstances.
Can landlords claim energy grants?
Yes, private landlords can claim many grants, especially BUS and insulation schemes. Some grants require landlord accreditation.
What if my property is leasehold?
Leaseholders can usually claim grants, but may need freeholder permission for external work. Check your lease agreement.
Related guides
Heat Pumps UK Guide
ASHP vs GSHP costs, BUS grant, and when insulation comes first.
Home Insulation Guide
Loft, cavity, solid wall, and floor insulation compared.
Solar Panels UK
UK solar costs, export assumptions, and suitability checks.
Improve Your EPC Rating
Cost-effective improvements ranked by payback and suitability.