ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation 4) is a government scheme requiring large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements for lower-income households. Solar can be installed under ECO4 as part of a qualifying package — but eligibility isn't automatic.
What is ECO4?
ECO4 is the fourth phase of the Energy Company Obligation — a policy requiring suppliers with 150,000+ customers (British Gas, Octopus, EDF, etc.) to fund home energy efficiency improvements for eligible households. Suppliers pay for the installations; the government sets targets and eligibility rules.
The scheme focuses primarily on the least energy-efficient homes — those rated EPC E, F or G — occupied by lower-income households. Insulation and heating measures are prioritised, but solar panels are eligible as part of a broader whole-house package.
Status
Who qualifies for ECO4 solar panels?
Eligibility has two components: your household's financial situation, and your property's energy efficiency rating.
Financial eligibility (one of the following):
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Child Tax Credit / Working Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Income-based Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA)
- Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit or Savings Credit)
- Child Benefit (household income below ~£31,000)
Property eligibility:
- EPC rating of E, F or G (primary target)
- EPC D may be eligible in some circumstances — particularly with qualifying benefits
Check your EPC
What does ECO4 cover for solar?
ECO4 typically funds solar panels as part of a 'whole-house' approach rather than as a standalone measure. Your installation may include:
- Solar PV panels (typically 6–12 panels on a south-facing roof)
- Battery storage alongside the panels in some cases
- Insulation measures (loft, wall) as part of the same package
- Heating controls or storage heater upgrades
The exact mix depends on your survey results and the funding stream. Alliant will conduct a full assessment and tell you exactly what your property qualifies for.
What ECO4 solar looks like in practice
For a qualifying household in a 3-bed semi with an EPC of E:
- A retrofit assessor surveys the property
- A package is recommended — typically loft insulation, 6–8 solar panels, and possibly a smart thermostat
- The package is approved by the energy supplier funding the work
- Alliant installs the approved measures — at no cost to the householder
- MCS certification is issued — qualifying the household for SEG payments
- The EPC rating typically improves by 2–3 bands
The full process from enquiry to completed installation typically takes 8–16 weeks.
Check your ECO4 eligibility in minutes
It takes a quick conversation. We'll tell you straight away whether ECO4 or Warm Homes Plan funding applies.
What ECO4 doesn't cover
ECO4 doesn't fund solar as a standalone measure for homeowners who don't meet the financial and property eligibility criteria. If you own your home outright, aren't on qualifying benefits and your property is EPC C or above, ECO4 isn't the route for you — but the Warm Homes Plan (with broader eligibility) may still apply.
ECO4 also doesn't cover: commercial properties; new-build properties; holiday homes or second homes; or improvements to properties already at EPC C or above in most cases.
How to check your eligibility
The fastest route is to contact us. We check eligibility as the first step of our free energy review — it takes minutes and we'll tell you straight away whether ECO4 or Warm Homes Plan funding is likely to apply.
If you prefer to check independently first, Simple Energy Advice (simpleenergyadvice.org.uk) is the government's official eligibility checking tool.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get ECO4 funding even if I own my home?
Yes. ECO4 is available to owner-occupiers, not just tenants. You need to meet the benefit/income eligibility and your property needs to be below EPC C.
My property has never had an EPC. Does that affect eligibility?
You can commission an EPC before applying — £60–£120 from an accredited assessor. Older properties in lower-income areas often have presumed ratings based on construction type and age. We can advise based on your property type.
Will I have to pay anything back if I move house?
No. ECO4 grants are not repayable loans. The funded measures remain with the property and transfer to the new owner. There is no repayment obligation even if you sell shortly after installation.
Are there enough funds left in ECO4?
ECO4 funding is delivered through ongoing obligations on energy suppliers rather than a single fixed pot. Under the Warm Homes Plan, funding has been extended and expanded. We'll confirm the current position when you enquire.
