Grants & Schemes
Government schemes can cut the cost of solar, batteries and heat pumps — or pay you for the energy you export. Here's what's available in 2026.
ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation)
ECO4 targets the least energy-efficient homes (typically EPC D–G) where someone receives qualifying benefits. Measures can include insulation, heating upgrades and, in some cases, solar PV. Eligibility and available measures are assessed per property.
- How much
- Varies by measure and property; can cover most or all of the cost for eligible homes.
- Eligibility
- Means-tested — usually requires a qualifying benefit and a lower EPC rating.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides an upfront grant, claimed by your installer, toward an air-source or ground-source heat pump. The property usually needs a valid EPC with no outstanding insulation recommendations.
- How much
- Up to £7,500 toward an air-source heat pump (check current rates).
- Eligibility
- England & Wales; valid EPC; applies to replacing fossil-fuel systems.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
Replacing the old Feed-in Tariff, the SEG pays per kWh exported. Rates vary widely by supplier, so it pays to compare — some tariffs (e.g. from Octopus) offer notably higher export rates, especially when bundled with import tariffs.
- How much
- Per-kWh export rate set by each supplier; compare offers.
- Eligibility
- MCS-certified install and an export (smart) meter typically required.