The UK grant landscape changes every year. Here is the 2026 state of play. Always confirm eligibility on the official scheme website before committing.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS)
- Up to £7,500 off an air-source or ground-source heat pump.
- Available across England and Wales.
- The installer applies on your behalf. You must use an MCS-certified installer.
- Open to homeowners and small landlords; not for new builds.
ECO4
- For lower-income households, or those on means-tested benefits.
- Covers insulation (loft, wall, floor), heating upgrades, sometimes solar.
- Delivered by the major energy companies. Apply via your energy supplier or via a participating Local Authority Flexible Eligibility scheme.
Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)
- For homes in EPC bands D-G in lower council tax bands (A-D in England, A-E in Scotland and Wales).
- Covers a single primary insulation measure.
- Apply via the GOV.UK signposting tool.
Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)
- For low-income households off the gas grid (heating with oil/LPG/electric).
- Covers wider works: insulation + low-carbon heating.
- Delivered through Local Authorities.
VAT relief
- 0% VAT on most energy-saving installations (heat pumps, insulation, solar, batteries) until 31 March 2027 as a stand-alone benefit (no need for it to be part of a grant scheme). Your installer should apply the zero rate automatically.
Local schemes
Most councils run additional discretionary schemes (London Boroughs especially active). Search "[your council name] energy grants" or use the Grant Finder in Retrofit mode.
Caution
- Avoid cold callers offering "free insulation" or "free solar". Real grants do not need cold-callers, and these are often poor-quality installs that void grant eligibility for a decade.
- Read the scheme terms carefully. Some grants require you to live in the property for 5+ years after install.
Still need help? Email support@havnwright.com from your registered address.
Last updated 17 May 2026
More in Retrofit & Energy
What is Retrofit mode in the dashboard?
The dashboard has a separate Retrofit toggle with energy-focused tools. What it covers and how to use it.
How do I find my EPC rating?
EPCs are public for most UK homes. Find yours via Havnwright or directly via the government register.
MCS, TrustMark, NICEIC, Gas Safe: what do they mean?
A plain-English glossary of UK trade accreditations and which ones you need to insist on.