UK Government Grants you can use to improve your home

Retrofitting your home to improve energy efficiency not only reduces energy bills but also enhances comfort and contributes to sustainability. The UK government provides several grants to support homeowners in making these upgrades. 

Below is an overview of key schemes and how to access them.

1. Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)

The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) is designed to help households lower their energy bills by improving insulation. The scheme runs until 31 March 2026 and is overseen by Ofgem.

Key Features:

• Eligibility: Households in council tax bands A-D in England and A-E in Wales and Scotland with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of D or below.

• Measures Covered: Cavity wall insulation, loft insulation, solid wall insulation, and other insulation improvements.

  
  

How to Apply:

Visit the official GBIS application page or contact your energy supplier for more details.

2. Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme requires major energy suppliers to fund energy-saving measures for lower-income households.

Key Features:

• Eligibility: Households receiving certain benefits, living in fuel poverty, or those in homes with inefficient heating systems.

• Measures Covered: Insulation, heating system upgrades, solar panels, and smart heating controls.

  
  

How to Apply:

Find out if you qualify and apply through the ECO4 scheme website.

3. Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides grants to replace fossil fuel heating systems with low-carbon alternatives.

Key Features:

• Eligibility: Homeowners and small landlords replacing oil, gas, or direct electric heating systems.

• Measures Covered: Air source heat pumps, ground source heat pumps, and biomass boilers.

• Grant Value: Up to £7,500 per property.

  
  

How to Apply:

Your chosen installer will apply on your behalf. Learn more on the Boiler Upgrade Scheme page.

4. Home Upgrade Grant (HUG2)

The Home Upgrade Grant (HUG2) helps off-gas grid homes in England improve their energy efficiency.

Key Features:

• Eligibility: Low-income households in off-gas grid properties with an EPC rating of D-G.

• Measures Covered: Insulation, heat pumps, solar panels, and other efficiency upgrades.

  
  

How to Apply:

Applications are managed by local councils. Check your local council’s website or visit the HUG2 scheme page.

Final Thoughts

With rising energy costs and increasing focus on sustainability, government grants provide a great opportunity to improve your home’s energy efficiency without bearing the full cost. Whether you're looking to upgrade insulation, install renewable heating, or improve ventilation, these schemes can make retrofit more affordable.

To find out which grant best suits your needs, contact your local council or energy supplier today!