If you're looking to cut your home's energy bills and carbon footprint in 2026, US home energy grants could help. Two key programs—the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and ECO4—offer grants and support for upgrading heating systems and improving energy efficiency. Understanding how these grants work and how to apply can save you thousands and reduce your home's environmental impact.

Quick Facts About Home Energy Grants in 2026

  • The Warm Homes Plan replaces ECO4 and ECO+ starting in 2026, backed by a £15 billion budget aimed at improving energy efficiency across millions of homes and non-domestic buildings in England and Wales.
  • The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers grants of £5,000 for installing air source heat pumps and £6,000 for ground source heat pumps, helping households transition away from fossil fuel heating.
  • From 2025, new-build homes are banned from having gas boilers installed, and by 2035, only low-carbon heating systems will be allowed, aligning with the UK’s net zero commitments.
  • Landlords must upgrade all tenanted properties to at least an EPC Band C by October 2030, with financial support capped at £10,000 per property to help meet these regulations.
  • The Warm Homes Agency will manage all spending and administration of grants under the Warm Homes Plan, ensuring streamlined access and proper fund allocation.

Prerequisites for Applying

Before applying for these grants, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria to qualify for funding and support.

  • You must be a homeowner or own a non-domestic building located in England or Wales. The schemes don't currently extend to Scotland or Northern Ireland.
  • For the Boiler Upgrade Scheme, your current heating boiler should be nearing the end of its operational life or already inefficient, encouraging replacements with low-carbon alternatives.
  • Low-income households qualify for broader Warm Homes Plan grants, which cover heat pumps, solar panels, insulation upgrades, and double glazing to reduce energy costs effectively.
  • Landlords are obligated to comply with new energy efficiency standards, ensuring rental properties reach at least EPC Band C by 2030, supporting both tenant comfort and environmental goals.
  • Applicants may also need to provide documentation verifying income levels, property ownership, and current energy performance ratings during the application process.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and ECO4 Grants

1. Check Your Eligibility

Start by visiting the official government energy grants checker at Gov.uk/energy-grants-calculator. This tool assesses your home’s eligibility based on location, income, current heating system, and property type. It’s updated regularly to reflect the latest criteria under the Warm Homes Plan and Boiler Upgrade Scheme.

2. Choose Your Heating Upgrade

Decide which low-carbon heating system suits your home and budget. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme provides £5,000 grants for air source heat pumps, which extract heat from the air outside, and £6,000 grants for ground source heat pumps, which use underground heat. Other eligible options can include biomass boilers. Consider your home size, insulation quality, and heating needs when selecting an upgrade.

3. Find an Approved Installer

Only installations by government-registered installers qualify for grants. Use the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) database at Microgenerationcertification.org to locate certified providers near you. Verify their credentials and get quotes before committing to an installer.

4. Apply for the Grant

Once you’ve chosen an installer, they will help you apply for the grant through the government portal. The application process requires details about your property, current heating system, and installer information. Grants are typically paid after installation, so be prepared for upfront costs.

5. Installation and Inspection

After approval, your installer will schedule and complete the heating system upgrade. Post-installation, you may need an inspection or certification to confirm the work meets standards. Keep all documentation and receipts for your records and potential audits.

6. Claim Your Grant

Submit proof of installation and any required certificates to receive the grant payment. The Warm Homes Agency oversees this process and ensures funds are disbursed promptly, usually within a few weeks of submission.

7. Monitor Your Energy Savings

After upgrading, track your energy bills and home comfort levels. Many heat pump systems come with monitoring apps or tools to help you optimize usage and savings over time.

Tips for Maximizing Your Grant Benefits

  • Apply early as funds can be limited and demand is high, especially in colder months.
  • Consider combining grants with other local or state incentives for renewable energy or insulation upgrades to maximize savings.
  • Improve your home’s insulation before installing new heating systems to increase efficiency and comfort.
  • Consult multiple installers to compare prices and service options.
  • Stay updated on any changes in grant amounts or eligibility criteria by regularly checking Gov.uk energy grants.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not verifying installer certification — using an unapproved installer disqualifies you from grants.
  • Delaying applications — some grants have limited budgets that run out quickly.
  • Failing to provide complete documentation — incomplete applications can lead to delays or rejections.
  • Ignoring landlord obligations — landlords must meet EPC standards or face penalties.
  • Assuming all heating upgrades qualify — only specific low-carbon systems are eligible under these schemes.

The US home energy grants available in 2026—especially the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and ECO4—offer solid support for upgrading heating systems and improving energy efficiency. Eligibility depends on income, property type, and current heating systems. By following the application steps carefully and choosing approved installers, homeowners and landlords can save thousands while lowering their carbon footprint.