ECO5 Scheme: The Future of UK Home Energy Efficiency
The ECO5 scheme launches in April 2026 as the UK's most ambitious home decarbonization program, offering free heat pumps, solar panels, and comprehensive retrofits to accelerate our path to Net Zero.
Government Backed
2026-2030 Programme
Key Objectives & Timeline
ECO5 is strategically designed to accelerate the UK's path to Net Zero while delivering immediate benefits to households.
- Reducing fuel poverty for vulnerable households
- Comprehensive home insulation improvements
- Upgrading to renewable heating systems
- Cutting carbon emissions by 68% by 2030
- Delivering sustained energy bill reductions
Don't Wait for ECO5
If you currently qualify for ECO4, we recommend applying now rather than waiting for ECO5. ECO4 remains highly generous and available for applications, while ECO5's exact terms and generosity are still being finalized.
Who Will Benefit? Anticipated Eligibility Changes
ECO5 is expected to significantly broaden eligibility while maintaining focus on those most in need.
| Criteria | ECO4 (Current) | ECO5 (Anticipated) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Focus | Alleviating fuel poverty for low-income households | Fuel poverty reduction + significant carbon emission cuts |
| Income Requirements | Primarily means-tested benefits | Broader criteria including carbon footprint assessment |
| EPC Rating (Owned) | D, E, F, or G | E, F, or G (tighter focus) |
| ECO Flex Emphasis | Important (up to 50% obligation) | Expanded and crucial pathway |
| Middle-Income Inclusion | No direct inclusion | Yes (potential expansion) |
| Private Landlords/Tenants | Limited inclusion | Enhanced inclusion |
Carbon Footprint Focus
Homes with higher carbon emissions will be prioritized for maximum environmental impact, aligning with Net Zero goals.
Broader Eligibility
Expected expansion to include middle-income families struggling with energy bills and private landlord properties.
Enhanced ECO Flex
Greater flexibility for local authorities to refer households based on regional factors and specific vulnerabilities.
Advanced Technologies & Measures Under ECO5
ECO5 champions cutting-edge energy-saving technologies for comprehensive home decarbonization.
Air Source Heat Pumps
Efficiently heat homes by extracting warmth from outside air, reducing carbon footprints and energy bills significantly.
Solar Panels (PV)
Enable households to generate their own clean electricity, decreasing reliance on fossil fuels and grid dependency.
Advanced Heating Controls
Provide precise management of home heating systems, ensuring energy is used efficiently and effectively.
Battery Storage
Allows households to store excess solar energy for later use, maximizing renewable generation benefits.
Hybrid Heating Systems
Combines heat pumps with traditional boilers, offering a flexible path to home decarbonization.
Comprehensive Insulation
Fundamental measures like loft, cavity, and solid wall insulation remain crucial for reducing heat loss.
Whole-House Approach
ECO5 emphasizes comprehensive home upgrades rather than single measures, combining multiple technologies for maximum carbon reduction and energy efficiency. The average ECO5 installation may include 3-4 complementary measures for optimal performance.
ECO Scheme Impact Statistics
The ECO programme has delivered significant results across the UK, setting the foundation for ECO5's ambitious goals.
Total Investment
Total ECO costs reported by suppliers across all phases up to Q4 2024
Measures per Home
Average number of measures installed per household under ECO4, up from ECO3's 1.84
Heating Focus
Proportion of all ECO4 measures that were heating-related improvements
ECO Flex Route
Maximum proportion delivered through Flexible Eligibility, expected to expand under ECO5
Why ECO5 Matters to You
ECO5 offers transformative benefits for eligible households, communities, and the environment.
Lower Energy Bills
Directly reduces energy consumption, leading to significant and sustained savings on utility costs.
Enhanced Home Comfort
Improved insulation and modern heating systems create a warmer, more consistent indoor environment.
Increased Property Value
Energy efficiency upgrades improve a property's EPC rating, enhancing its marketability and long-term value.
Positive Environmental Impact
Reduces reliance on fossil fuels and lowers carbon emissions, contributing to UK Net Zero targets.
Future-Proof Technology
Access to cutting-edge renewable technologies that prepare your home for the energy landscape of tomorrow.
Expert Installation
All installations by TrustMark-certified professionals with comprehensive warranties and ongoing support.
Community Impact
Contributing to local job creation in green industries while supporting the UK's Net Zero commitment.
How to Prepare for ECO5
Start preparing now to maximize your chances of benefiting from ECO5 when it launches in April 2026.
Stay informed and monitor official guidance
Monitor updates from DESNZ and Ofgem for definitive ECO5 rules. Register interest with trusted providers for timely scheme updates.
Understand your home's Energy Performance Certificate
Locate or arrange for an EPC assessment. Lower EPC ratings (E, F, G) will likely continue to be prioritized under ECO5.
Assess potential ECO5 eligibility factors
Review current ECO4 criteria and consider how new ECO5 factors like carbon footprint and expanded eligibility might apply to your situation.
Engage with approved scheme providers
Connect with TrustMark-certified installers for a free home survey and guidance through the ECO5 application process.
Key Documents to Gather
- Current Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Proof of benefits or income documentation
- Property ownership or tenancy agreement
- Recent energy bills for carbon footprint assessment
- Landlord consent (if applicable)
- Details of current heating system
Don't Wait - Check Your ECO4 Eligibility Now
While preparing for ECO5, check if you qualify for the current ECO4 scheme which offers immediate benefits. Get your free home energy upgrades today rather than waiting until 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about the ECO5 scheme and how it compares to current programs.
Stay Ahead of ECO5
Be among the first to know when ECO5 launches in April 2026. Register your interest for priority updates, early application access, and expert guidance.
Government-backed scheme for complete peace of mind
TrustMark-certified installations with full warranties
Over 4.2 million measures installed across the UK