If you’re looking to improve your home’s energy efficiency, the ECO4 scheme is one of the best government-backed programmes available. But it’s not the only one. Many homeowners ask: “Can I combine ECO4 with other energy-saving grants in the UK?”
The short answer? Yes—in some cases. Combining grants can help you cover more improvements and reduce your out-of-pocket costs. But it’s important to understand the rules and how these schemes interact.
In this blog, we’ll explain which grants can be used alongside ECO4, how to stay compliant, and how to maximise the support available to you.
What is the ECO4 Scheme?
The Energy Company Obligation Phase 4 (ECO4) is a UK government initiative designed to help low-income and vulnerable households reduce energy use and improve home comfort.
It covers:
- Loft, cavity wall, and underfloor insulation
- Air source heat pumps
- High heat retention electric storage heaters
- Smart heating controls
- Solar PV panels
The scheme runs until 2026 and is primarily targeted at properties with poor energy performance (EPC ratings D–G).
Can You Combine ECO4 with Other Grants?
In many cases, you can combine ECO4 funding with other local or national grant schemes, as long as they don’t overlap or duplicate funding for the same improvement.
Grants That May Be Compatible:
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
- Supports the installation of heat pumps and biomass boilers.
- You can’t claim BUS and ECO4 for the same system, but you might use BUS for heating and ECO4 for insulation.
Local Authority Delivery (LAD) Scheme
- Some councils offer this funding to improve energy efficiency.
- Can be used before or after ECO4 for different improvements.
Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)
- Targeted at off-gas grid homes.
- May be combined with ECO4 if funding is applied to different upgrades.
Green Deal (private finance)
- You can finance extra improvements outside what ECO4 covers.
Grants That Can’t Be Combined Directly:
You cannot receive multiple grants for the same measure (e.g. you can’t use both ECO4 and the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to fund the same heat pump).
ECO4 cannot be used as a top-up for partially funded measures under another scheme. Each funding stream must stand alone.
How to Use ECO4 Strategically with Other Grants
Here’s how to make the most of what’s available:
- Start with a Retrofit Assessment
- This will identify all the energy-saving opportunities in your home.
- Apply for ECO4 First
- This scheme covers a wide range of measures and could reduce your need for other funding.
- Use Other Grants for Uncovered Upgrades
- For example, use ECO4 for insulation and solar panels, then apply for BUS if ECO4 doesn’t cover your heating system.
- Check Local Schemes and LA Flex Options
- Some councils offer additional support through Local Authority Flexible Eligibility (LA Flex) or partnership funding.
- Work with a Certified Installer
- Reputable providers will guide you through combining grants legally and efficiently.
Example Scenario
Let’s say you live in an off-grid home with an old oil boiler and poor insulation. You could:
- Use ECO4 to fund new insulation and smart heating controls.
- Apply for BUS to help cover the cost of an air source heat pump.
- Add Green Deal finance to cover optional extras like underfloor heating or triple glazing.
Final Thoughts
Yes—you can combine ECO4 with other grants, as long as you follow the rules and don’t duplicate funding for the same work. With the right guidance, you can piece together multiple sources of support and give your home a full energy-efficiency upgrade—often for little to no cost.
Key Takeaways:
- ECO4 can be combined with other schemes like BUS, LAD, and HUG.
- You cannot claim multiple grants for the same upgrade.
- Strategic planning and expert guidance are essential.
- Start with a retrofit assessment and explore all your options.
Want to find out what you’re eligible for?
Get in touch today for a free grant check and expert advice on combining ECO4 with other energy-saving schemes.