ECO4 Scheme: Free Solar Panels Before the Deadline
The ECO4 scheme closes in March 2026. If you receive benefits, you could get completely free solar panels installed on your home. But you must apply NOW — processing takes 3-6 weeks.
⏰ ECO4 closes 31st March 2026. Applications take 3-6 weeks to process. Apply TODAY to guarantee your free solar panels.
Check Eligibility →What is the ECO4 Scheme?
The Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4) is a UK government scheme that requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements in eligible homes. Running since 2022, ECO4 has helped hundreds of thousands of households receive free solar panels, insulation, and heating upgrades.
Under ECO4, eligible households pay nothing — the full cost of solar panel installation is covered by energy companies including British Gas, EDF, E.ON, OVO Energy, Scottish Power, and others. A typical solar panel installation worth £5,000-£8,000 is completely free.
ECO4 specifically targets households in fuel poverty and those receiving means-tested benefits. If you or anyone in your household receives benefits like Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit, or Housing Benefit, you likely qualify.
⚠️ Critical: ECO4 is confirmed to end on 31st March 2026. With processing times of 3-6 weeks, you need to apply NOW to have any chance of getting your installation before the deadline.
⏰ ECO4 Deadline Timeline
If you wait, you may miss the deadline entirely. Apply now.
Do You Qualify for Free ECO4 Solar Panels?
ECO4 eligibility is primarily based on benefits receipt and property energy rating. Check the criteria below.
✅ Qualifying Benefits
You or someone in your household must receive one of these benefits:
- Universal Credit (UC)
- Pension Credit (Guarantee or Savings)
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Housing Benefit
- Income-based JSA or ESA
- Child Benefit (income under £31k)
🏠 Property Requirements
Your property must meet these conditions:
- EPC rating of D, E, F, or G
- Suitable roof for solar panels (south/east/west facing)
- Homeowner or private tenant (with landlord permission)
- Property in England, Scotland, or Wales
- Structurally sound roof
Don't know your EPC rating? No problem — we'll check it for you as part of the free assessment. Most older homes are rated D or below.
ECO4 Solar Panels: Completely Free Installation
Through the ECO4 scheme, eligible households receive a complete solar panel system at zero cost. Here's exactly what's included:
- 3-4kW Solar Panel System — 8-12 panels generating enough for most household needs
- Inverter System — Converts solar energy to usable electricity
- All Mounting Hardware & Scaffolding — Everything included
- MCS Certified Installation — By accredited professionals
- 25-Year Product Warranty — Long-term peace of mind
- Smart Export Guarantee Registration — Earn money selling excess electricity
Total Value: £5,000-£8,000 — You pay £0.
🏠 After ECO4: The £15bn Warm Homes Plan
Don't qualify for ECO4? The new Warm Homes Plan offers up to £30,000 for households earning under £36k — no benefits required.
ECO4 Solar Panels: Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about getting free solar panels through the ECO4 scheme before the March 2026 deadline.
When does the ECO4 scheme end?
The ECO4 scheme is scheduled to end on 31st March 2026. After this date, no new applications will be accepted. If you think you might be eligible, it's critical to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is processed before the deadline.
Can I get free solar panels through ECO4?
Yes, eligible households can receive fully funded solar panel installations through the ECO4 scheme. Solar panels are classified as an eligible measure under ECO4, particularly for homes with low EPC ratings. The installation is completely free for qualifying households — there are no hidden costs.
Who is eligible for the ECO4 scheme?
You may be eligible if you receive means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit, Income Support, Housing Benefit, or income-related ESA/JSA. Your property should also have a low EPC rating (D, E, F, or G). Both homeowners and private tenants can apply.
What happens after ECO4 ends?
After ECO4 ends in March 2026, the government's new Warm Homes Plan will be the primary route for free solar panels. The Warm Homes Plan has broader eligibility (household income under £36,000) and higher grants (up to £30,000). However, ECO4 may be simpler to qualify for if you receive benefits, so applying now while both schemes are available gives you the best chance.
How long does an ECO4 solar panel installation take?
The solar panel installation itself typically takes 1-2 days. However, the full process from application to installation usually takes 3-6 weeks, which is why it's vital to apply now before the March 2026 deadline. Processing times may increase as the deadline approaches due to high demand.
Can I apply for both ECO4 and the Warm Homes Plan?
Yes, you can potentially benefit from both schemes. If you qualify for ECO4, we recommend applying immediately as it ends in March 2026. You can then explore additional measures under the Warm Homes Plan, which offers up to £30,000 for further improvements like heat pumps, battery storage, and insulation.
Don't Miss Your Chance for Free Solar Panels
The ECO4 scheme closes permanently in weeks. Applications take 3-6 weeks to process. If you wait any longer, you risk missing the deadline entirely. Check your eligibility now — it takes 2 minutes.
Free eligibility check — No obligation — 2 minute form