ECO4 has closed. So what help is left for homeowners?

ECO4, the scheme that funded millions of energy upgrades, closed to new applications on 31 March 2026. Homeowners still ask about “free solar”, so here’s what support actually exists now.

What happened to ECO4?

ECO4 stopped accepting new applications on 31 March 2026. Energy suppliers were given until 31 December 2026 to finish work that was already committed, but new customers can no longer apply.

The Warm Homes: Local Grant

The main replacement for lower-income households in England is the Warm Homes: Local Grant, run through local councils. It can fully fund energy upgrades, which can include solar panels. To qualify, a household generally needs:

• A privately owned home in England
• An EPC rating of D to G
• A household income of around £36,000 or less, or certain benefits (some postcodes qualify automatically)
• A local council that currently has funding available

The Warm Homes Plan

The government launched its Warm Homes Plan in January 2026, with up to £15 billion to upgrade homes by 2030. It includes 0% interest loans for solar panels and batteries for homeowners regardless of income, but these aren’t expected to be fully available until 2027.