Government and energy-supplier funding can help cover the cost of insulating your home — but the schemes change often, and 2026 has brought some big shifts. Here's a clear, up-to-date picture of where things stand, so you know what's still worth checking.
The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) — which used a simpler council-tax-band route to open insulation funding to a wider group of homeowners — closed to new applications on 31 January 2026 and ended on 31 March 2026 after energy suppliers met their obligations. If you'd been counting on GBIS, that route is no longer available, but it isn't the only option.
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) remains the main scheme open in 2026, currently running until December 2026. It funds insulation and other energy-saving measures for lower-income households — typically those receiving qualifying means-tested benefits, or referred by their local council through a route known as ECO Flex (LA Flex). ECO4 tends to support more comprehensive upgrades, so it's well worth checking if you think you might qualify.
Looking ahead, the government has committed significant new grant funding — reported at around £1.5 billion — to upgrade lower-income homes under its Warm Homes Plan. Local-authority "Flex" routes are expected to widen eligibility beyond benefits alone, taking into account factors like income, council tax band and a home's energy efficiency. Exactly how and when different elements roll out can vary, which is why it pays to check current availability rather than rely on last year's information.
Most current schemes target households that are more likely to struggle with energy costs. Eligibility commonly considers a mix of:
Not everyone qualifies — and that's worth being upfront about. But many homeowners assume they won't be eligible and never check, missing out as a result.
If grant funding isn't available to you, insulating your home can still be one of the most worthwhile improvements you make — and comparing quotes is the best way to keep the cost down. We can check which current routes might fit your circumstances and, either way, match you with vetted insulation installers so you can compare competitive prices.
With GBIS closed, ECO4 and the emerging Warm Homes Plan are the routes to watch in 2026. Schemes and criteria move quickly, so always confirm current details before committing. Tell us about your home and we'll help you check what's available right now — for no cost and with no obligation.
This article is for general guidance and reflects the position at the time of writing in 2026. Grant schemes, eligibility criteria and funding levels change frequently and are subject to availability. Always confirm current scheme details with the relevant provider or GOV.UK before proceeding.
We'll check current routes and match you with vetted insulation installers — no cost and no obligation.
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