The UK government has launched a consultation on extending the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme for an additional six to nine months beyond its current end date of 31st March 2026. This move aims to give households and the energy sector more stability as the government transitions toward its £13.2 billion Warm Homes Plan.
For homeowners, landlords, and tenants, this consultation could mean more time to benefit from free energy efficiency measures such as insulation, heating upgrades, and renewable systems. For companies like Reliant Energy Solutions, it represents both continuity in delivering services and an opportunity to help even more families reduce energy bills while contributing to the UK’s net-zero goals.
What is the ECO4 Scheme?
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO) is one of the government’s flagship energy efficiency programmes. Introduced in 2013, its main goal has been to reduce fuel poverty and carbon emissions across the UK. The latest phase, ECO4, began in 2022 and focuses on upgrading the least energy-efficient homes, particularly those with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or lower.
Through ECO4, eligible households can access measures such as: home insulation, green heating systems, and boiler upgrades.
- Home insulation (loft, cavity wall, solid wall, underfloor insulation)
- Green heating systems (air-source heat pumps, biomass boilers, hybrid heating solutions)
- Boiler upgrades and replacements
- Smart controls and energy efficiency technology
Since its launch, ECO4 has already made a substantial impact. By June 2025, 875,900 measures had been installed in 260,400 properties across the UK. This makes ECO4 the largest government-backed energy efficiency initiative currently in operation.
Why is the Government Proposing an Extension?
Without this extension, there would be a risk of funding gaps, loss of supply chain stability, and fewer protections for vulnerable households during the switch.
According to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), the consultation outlines several key proposals:
- ECO4 extension for 6–9 months – Maintaining funding and household support until the Warm Homes Plan is fully operational.
- 20% carry-over option – Allowing suppliers to transfer up to 20% of obligations into the new scheme to ensure smoother compliance.
- Stronger consumer protection – Including more audits, better data sharing, and higher retrofit standards (PAS 2035/2030) to prevent poor installations.
- No extension to the Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) – This scheme will close in March 2026.
- Unchanged solid wall and EFG requirements – Ensuring consistency while avoiding further disruptions to supply chains.
For households, this means continued access to free energy upgrades in the UK and better assurances of quality.
What Does This Mean for UK Households?
If the ECO4 scheme is extended, more homeowners and tenants will be able to benefit from home energy improvements without the financial burden. With rising energy prices and the increasing importance of sustainable living, this could not come at a better time.
Reliant Energy Solutions has seen firsthand how these upgrades make a difference:
- Reduced energy bills – Many of our customers save hundreds of pounds each year after insulation or heating upgrades.
- Improved comfort – Properly insulated homes retain warmth in winter and stay cooler in summer.
- Environmental benefits – Lower energy consumption directly reduces carbon emissions.
- Increased property value – Energy-efficient homes are more attractive to buyers and tenants.
Thinking of applying for ECO4 funding? Don’t wait—speak with Reliant Energy Solutions now and secure your place before deadlines shift.
Reliant Energy Solutions: Your Partner in Energy Efficiency
At Reliant Energy Solutions, we specialize in delivering ECO-funded upgrades and private energy efficiency services across the UK. Our expertise ensures homeowners not only benefit from funding but also receive high-quality installations with guaranteed results.
Our services include:
- Free eligibility checks – Helping you determine if your property qualifies for ECO4 or other funding schemes.
- Professional insulation installation – Loft, cavity wall, solid wall, and underfloor insulation to improve thermal efficiency.
- Heating system upgrades – From efficient boilers to renewable heating systems.
- End-to-end project management – We handle everything, from survey and funding application to installation and aftercare.
Thinking of applying for ECO4 funding? Don’t wait book your free eligibility check with Reliant Energy Solutions now and secure your place before deadlines shift.
How to Respond to the Consultation?
The consultation on extending ECO4 is currently open until 25th September 2025. Interested parties including industry professionals, local authorities, and even members of the public can provide their input through the official government website.
Responding is simple, and it’s an opportunity to influence the future of home energy efficiency in the UK. Reliant Energy Solutions encourages industry stakeholders and households alike to stay informed and take part in shaping the next phase of sustainable housing.
Frequently Asked Questions About the ECO4 Extension
1. Who is eligible for ECO4 funding?
Households that are on low income, receiving certain benefits, or living in homes with a poor Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or lower are usually eligible. Tenants, landlords, and homeowners can all apply if they meet the criteria.
2. Will ECO4 be available across the UK?
Yes. ECO4 funding applies to properties in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Local councils such as Manchester City Council, Birmingham City Council, Cardiff Council, and Glasgow City Council often work with installers to identify households that qualify under the ECO4 Flex scheme (local authority referrals).
3. What happens after March 2026?
If the extension is approved, ECO4 will run into late 2026. After that, the government’s new Warm Homes Plan is expected to take over, with even more funding to upgrade UK housing stock.
4. Can I still benefit if I’m not on benefits?
Yes, some households may qualify under ECO4 Flex, where local authorities or devolved administrations nominate households that are struggling with energy costs, even if they don’t claim benefits. Reliant Energy Solutions can guide you through this process.
Why Act Now?
The ECO4 scheme especially with its proposed extension is a limited-time opportunity. By acting quickly, households across the UK, from London and Birmingham to Leeds, Glasgow, and Cardiff, can lock in funding before the program transitions to the Warm Homes Plan. Don’t miss out contact Reliant Energy Solutions today and future-proof your home before funding rules change.
