The Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS) closed on 31 March 2026. But funded insulation is still available — under the Warm Homes Plan. Here's what changed and how to access the current schemes.
What was the Great British Insulation Scheme?
GBIS ran from 2023 to March 2026 and provided a single insulation measure per property — typically loft, cavity or solid wall — for households with EPC D–G or those receiving qualifying benefits. Funded by large energy suppliers. It filled a gap for households that didn't qualify for ECO4's more comprehensive packages.
GBIS is closed — what replaces it?
The Warm Homes Local Grant (WH:LG) is the primary replacement. It covers the same insulation measures as GBIS — and more:
| GBIS (closed) | Warm Homes Local Grant (current) | |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Closed 31 March 2026 | Open — funded to 2030 |
| Insulation covered | 1 measure per property | Multiple measures — loft, cavity, solid wall |
| Solar included | No | Yes |
| Heat pumps included | No | Yes |
| Max grant value | ~£5,000–£10,000 | Up to £30,000 |
| Income threshold | Qualifying benefits or ≤£31,000 | ≤£36,000 gross |
What insulation schemes are currently available in 2026?
1. Warm Homes Local Grant (WH:LG)
Up to £30,000 for eligible households (EPC D–G + income ≤£36,000). Covers loft, cavity, solid wall insulation and more. In Lancashire: delivered by Cosy Homes in Lancashire (chil.uk.com).
2. ECO4 Flex (residual)
Some residual ECO4 applications carried over after March 2026 were still being processed. New applications now follow the WH:LG route.
3. Energy Supplier Obligations
Large suppliers retain obligations to fund certain insulation measures for fuel-poor customers. Contact your supplier if you're in arrears or vulnerable.
GBIS is closed but funding is still available
Find out what you can get under the Warm Homes Plan.
I was mid-application for GBIS — what happens?
If your GBIS application was in progress before 31 March 2026, the delivery body should have contacted you about completion or transfer. If you haven't heard, contact your energy supplier or the installer who was managing it. In some cases, applications transferred to WH:LG automatically. Alliant Energy can check the current status — call 0800 088 4286.
Is free insulation still available for low-income households?
Yes. The Warm Homes Local Grant funds insulation for households with EPC D–G and income at or below £36,000. Households on qualifying benefits (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc.) are also prioritised. The eligibility criteria are in some ways more generous than GBIS.
Frequently asked questions
Has the Great British Insulation Scheme closed?
Yes. GBIS closed on 31 March 2026. No new applications are being accepted. The Warm Homes Local Grant is the current route to funded insulation.
What replaced GBIS?
The Warm Homes Local Grant, part of the Warm Homes Plan. It covers the same insulation measures as GBIS plus heat pumps, solar panels and batteries — with a higher maximum grant value of up to £30,000.
Can I still get free insulation in 2026?
Yes. The Warm Homes Local Grant funds insulation for eligible households. In Lancashire, apply through Cosy Homes in Lancashire or contact Alliant Energy to handle the application.
How is the Warm Homes Plan different from GBIS?
The Warm Homes Plan covers more measures, has a higher income threshold and provides up to £30,000 — significantly more than GBIS. It's administered locally, not through energy suppliers.
Related Warm Homes Plan guides
