Insulation Grants & Funding in 2026 — What’s Actually Available
Government support for wall insulation is changing fast. Here’s an honest, up-to-date guide to what’s available in 2026 — and how EWI Specialist fits in, whether you qualify for funding or not.
ECO4 — Running Until 31 December 2026
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme has been extended and now ends on 31 December 2026. It funds energy-efficiency upgrades — including external wall insulation — for eligible households, typically those receiving means-tested benefits and living in energy-inefficient homes (EPC D–G).
Where we fit: ECO4 projects must be run by approved providers under PAS 2035 retrofit coordination. EWI Specialist is a TrustMark-registered, PAS 2030-certified installer — we carry out the external wall insulation works on funded projects as an installation partner for accredited providers.
Warm Homes Plan — The New Scheme From 2026
The Government’s Warm Homes Plan (launched January 2026, £13.2 billion) is replacing the ECO framework. There will be no ECO5 — instead, the Warm Homes Local Grant is rolling out through local authorities for low-income households, alongside low-interest loans for other homeowners and expanded heat-pump support. Details vary by council and are still rolling out — we keep this page updated.
Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)
GBIS closed in March 2026 and has been superseded by the Warm Homes Plan.
Don’t Qualify for a Grant? You Still Save
- 0% VAT on insulation — energy-saving materials, including external wall insulation, are zero-rated for VAT until 31 March 2027. That’s an automatic saving on every private installation.
- Lower bills from day one — solid wall insulation cuts heat loss through walls, the biggest source of heat loss in most solid-wall homes.
- Transparent pricing — EWI from around £120/m² with a guarantee of up to 25 years. Try our Cost Calculator for an instant estimate.
For ECO4 Providers & Main Contractors
Running funded retrofit projects and need a reliable EWI installation partner? We’re TrustMark-registered (licence 1957400), PAS 2030 certified and INCA members, with 21+ years on site and capacity across London and the Home Counties. Visit our Installer Network page or call 020 4542 3074.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still apply for ECO4?
Yes — ECO4 runs until 31 December 2026. Applications go through approved providers or your energy supplier — not through us. Our role is the installation itself, which we deliver as a certified partner on funded projects.
What replaces ECO4 in 2027?
The Warm Homes Plan — primarily the Warm Homes Local Grant delivered through local councils, plus low-interest loans. There will be no ECO5.
Do I pay VAT on external wall insulation?
No — insulation is zero-rated for VAT until 31 March 2027, whether or not you receive a grant.
Does EWI Specialist handle my grant application?
We’re an installation specialist, not a grant administrator. Funded projects require PAS 2035 retrofit coordination by approved providers — we deliver the insulation works for those schemes and for private customers directly.
Not Sure Where You Stand?
Call 020 4542 3074 or request a free survey — we’ll quote you a fixed price for external wall insulation with 0% VAT — no middlemen, no waiting lists.