ECO5 Scheme: Free Heat Pumps & Solar Panels from 2026
TL;DR: The ECO5 scheme launches April 2026 as the UK's most ambitious home energy programme. Eligible households can receive free heat pumps (worth ÂŖ10,000+), solar panels (ÂŖ6,000+), and comprehensive insulation at no cost. Eligibility is expanding to include more households based on carbon footprint, not just income.
Government Backed
2026-2030 Programme
In This Guide
What is the ECO5 Scheme?
The ECO5 scheme (Energy Company Obligation 5) is the UK government's next-generation home energy efficiency programme, scheduled to launch in April 2026. As the successor to the current ECO4 scheme, ECO5 represents a significant shift towards whole-house decarbonisation with a focus on renewable heating technologies.
Unlike previous ECO phases which primarily focused on boiler replacements and insulation, ECO5 will prioritise:
- Air source heat pumps as the primary heating solution
- Solar panels with battery storage for renewable electricity
- Comprehensive insulation packages to maximise efficiency
- Smart heating controls for optimised energy management
Written by Peter Davies
ECO4 Analyst at Free Boiler Upgrade UK
Peter has over 8 years of experience in the UK energy efficiency sector, helping thousands of homeowners access government grants. He works closely with DESNZ and Ofgem to stay informed on scheme developments.
ECO5 vs ECO4: What's Changing?
Understanding the key differences between ECO4 and ECO5 will help you decide whether to apply now or wait.
| Feature | ECO4 (Current) | ECO5 (From 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Timeline | April 2022 - March 2026 | April 2026 - March 2030 |
| Primary Focus | Boiler replacements + insulation | Heat pumps + solar + whole-house |
| Main Heating Measure | Gas/oil boilers | Air source heat pumps |
| Eligibility Basis | Primarily income/benefits | Income + carbon footprint |
| EPC Requirement | D, E, F, or G | E, F, or G (tighter focus) |
| Middle-Income Households | Limited inclusion | Expanded inclusion |
| Approach | Single measure possible | Whole-house transformation |
| Application Status | Open - Apply Now | Coming April 2026 |
Our Recommendation: Apply for ECO4 Now
If you currently qualify for ECO4, we strongly recommend applying now rather than waiting for ECO5. ECO4 offers generous funding including free boiler replacements, and applications are open until March 2026. ECO5's exact terms and funding levels are still being finalised.
Check ECO4 EligibilityWho Will Qualify for ECO5?
ECO5 is expected to significantly expand eligibility, making more UK households able to benefit.
- âĸ Universal Credit
- âĸ Pension Credit
- âĸ Income Support
- âĸ Child Tax Credit
- âĸ Housing Benefit
- âĸ ESA/JSA (income-based)
- âĸ EPC rating E, F, or G
- âĸ High carbon footprint
- âĸ Off-gas grid properties
- âĸ Oil/LPG heating systems
- âĸ Poor insulation levels
- âĸ Older heating systems
- âĸ Low household income
- âĸ Health conditions
- âĸ Fuel poverty risk
- âĸ Vulnerable circumstances
- âĸ Council referral
- âĸ Area-specific criteria
New ECO5 Eligibility Factors (Expected)
Carbon Footprint Assessment
ECO5 may consider your home's carbon emissions when determining eligibility, prioritising high-emission properties for maximum environmental impact.
Middle-Income Inclusion
Households not on benefits but struggling with energy costs may qualify, particularly those in energy-inefficient homes.
Free Technologies Available Under ECO5
ECO5 focuses on cutting-edge renewable technologies for comprehensive home decarbonisation.
Air Source Heat Pumps
Extract warmth from outside air to heat homes efficiently. Reduce carbon footprint by up to 75% compared to gas boilers. Worth ÂŖ10,000+ when fully funded.
Solar Panels (PV)
Generate free electricity from sunlight. Cut electricity bills by 50-70% and earn through Smart Export Guarantee. Systems worth ÂŖ6,000+ available.
Battery Storage
Store excess solar energy for evening use. Maximise renewable generation and reduce grid dependency. Combined value with solar: ÂŖ8,000+.
Smart Heating Controls
Precision temperature management with app control. Learn your habits and optimise heating schedules. Save additional 10-15% on heating costs.
Comprehensive Insulation
Loft, cavity wall, and external wall insulation. Fundamental for reducing heat loss by up to 45%. Often required before heat pump installation.
Hybrid Heating Systems
Combine heat pumps with existing boilers. Flexible decarbonisation path for homes not suitable for full heat pump conversion.
Whole-House Transformation Approach
ECO5 emphasises comprehensive home upgrades rather than single measures. The average ECO5 installation may include 3-4 complementary measures for optimal performance, such as:
- Heat pump + insulation package
- Solar panels + battery storage
- Smart controls integration
- Draft proofing + ventilation
ECO5 Timeline & Key Dates
ECO4 Active
Apply now for free boilers and insulation
Until March 2026
Q4 2025
ECO5 Consultation
Final rules and guidance published
ECO5 Begins
Applications open for new scheme
April 2026
2030
ECO5 Ends
68% emissions reduction target
How to Prepare for ECO5
Start preparing now to maximise your chances of benefiting when ECO5 launches.
Monitor official ECO5 guidance
Stay informed by monitoring updates from DESNZ (Department for Energy Security and Net Zero) and Ofgem for definitive ECO5 rules. Register interest with trusted providers like Free Boiler Upgrade UK for timely scheme updates.
Check your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Locate your current EPC or arrange for a new assessment. Lower EPC ratings (E, F, G) will likely be prioritized under ECO5. You can check your EPC rating using our free EPC Checker tool.
Assess your potential eligibility
Review current ECO4 criteria and consider how new ECO5 factors like carbon footprint and expanded eligibility might apply to your situation. Check if you receive qualifying benefits or meet LA Flex criteria.
Consider applying for ECO4 now
If you currently qualify for ECO4, apply now rather than waiting for ECO5. ECO4 remains highly generous and applications are open until March 2026.
Connect with approved installers
Engage with TrustMark-certified installers for a free home survey and guidance through the application process. This ensures you're ready when ECO5 launches.
Documents to Gather
- Current Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- Proof of benefits or income documentation
- Property ownership or tenancy agreement
- Recent energy bills (12 months)
- Landlord consent letter (if renting)
- Current heating system details
Benefits of ECO5 Upgrades
Lower Energy Bills
Reduce annual energy costs by ÂŖ500-ÂŖ1,500+ through improved efficiency and renewable generation.
Enhanced Home Comfort
Consistent indoor temperatures, reduced draughts, and improved air quality throughout your home.
Increased Property Value
Energy efficiency improvements can add 5-15% to property value and improve EPC rating to A or B.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Cut household carbon emissions by up to 75%, contributing directly to UK Net Zero targets by 2050.
Total ECO Investment
Measures Installed
Measures per Home (ECO4)
Emissions Target 2030
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.
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Frequently Asked Questions About ECO5
Get answers to common questions about the ECO5 scheme.
Still have questions about ECO5?
Related Resources
ECO4 Scheme: Complete Guide
Learn about the current ECO4 scheme and how to apply for free boiler replacements.
Learn moreCheck Your EPC Rating
Use our free tool to check your property's Energy Performance Certificate rating instantly.
Learn moreLA Flex Eligibility Checker
See if you qualify through your local authority's flexible eligibility scheme.
Learn moreAir Source Heat Pump Grants
Discover how to get a free air source heat pump through government schemes.
Learn moreReady to Get Started?
Whether you're eligible for ECO4 now or preparing for ECO5, our team can help you access free home energy upgrades. Check your eligibility in 60 seconds.
Free Boiler Upgrade UK âĸ info@freeboilerupgrade.uk âĸ 07375 868046
Last updated: 15 January 2025