Free energy upgrades for lower-income households in England, arranged and paid for by local councils. It runs from 2025 to 2028.
Last reviewed 3 November 2026 · Independent guide, not affiliated with the UK Government
Who can get it
- Your home is in England
- It’s privately owned, by you or your landlord
- It has an EPC rating of D, E, F or G
- Household income is usually £36,000 a year or less
If your income is over £36,000
You may still qualify if you live in certain postcode areas, or someone in your household gets certain benefits. The official checker tells you which applies.
What it can pay for
Councils can fund insulation, solar panels, heat pumps and other low-carbon heating. Eligible owner-occupiers don’t usually pay towards approved work. Landlords may need to contribute.
How to apply
- Find your EPC rating on GOV.UK.
- Use the official Local Grant checker.
- If you’re eligible and your council has funding, it usually contacts you within 10 working days to arrange a survey.
Need help applying? Call the helpline on 0800 098 7950 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm, Saturday 9am to 12pm).
What’s changing
From 2027/28 the government plans to merge the Local Grant and the Social Housing Fund into one area-based scheme. Funding is allocated to councils, so it can run out locally.
Councils don’t cold call
Trading Standards have warned about firms falsely claiming council approval for Local Grant work. Apply through GOV.UK or your council directly.
Latest on grants
- ECO4 closes on 31 December 2026: what to do if you are waiting for work
- Off oil or LPG? The £9,000 heat pump grant runs until 31 March 2027
- Budget cuts £1bn from Warm Homes Plan grants: what it means for you
Not sure what applies to you?
Answer up to seven questions and we’ll show the grants and loans you may qualify for, with the official contact for each.