Great British Insulation Scheme
Homes got insulation that was free or cost less through the Great British Insulation Scheme, which aimed to cut energy bills. New installations stopped after it closed on 31 March 2026.
- the date the scheme closed
- 31 March 2026
- EPC ratings that were covered
- D to G
Is the Great British Insulation Scheme still open?
No. It's now closed to new installations, says Ofgem. It ran from April 2023 until 31 March 2026.
The online eligibility check closed as well, GOV.UK says. Some energy suppliers still accept applications, it adds, so ask your own supplier.
The government decided against extending it, its consultation response confirms. Instead, the larger ECO4 scheme got an extension.
What the scheme covered
The work was funded by energy suppliers. The law made medium and large suppliers fund upgrades that cut energy use, according to Ofgem.
Most homes received one insulation measure, which means a single type of insulation. The whole house is what ECO4 looks at, so it works differently. Your supplier then told you, after the assessment, whether any of the cost was yours to pay.
Who was eligible
It supported households that were low income or vulnerable. Being on benefits wasn't required, as long as your home passed both tests, Ofgem says.
- a home rated D, E, F or G on its EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)
- a council tax band of A through D for England, or A through E in Wales and Scotland
In case you've already applied
Your energy supplier sets up a home assessment once you qualify. If the cost or the assessment isn't something you agree with, you don't have to go ahead.
The deadline for all work was 31 March 2026, GOV.UK states. The date is in the past now. Questions about an older application should go to the energy supplier you used, not to the government.
Faults with insulation you had installed
Some solid wall insulation done under the scheme turned out to be faulty. If that worries you, GOV.UK points to advice on your next steps.
Inspections of external wall insulation installed under ECO4 and this scheme uncovered serious faults. At least one major technical problem showed up in 92% of jobs, says the Warm Homes Plan.
Homes affected will be audited, and repairs supported where they're needed, the government has promised. For complaints, use Ofgem's Energy Company Obligation complaints guidance.
Other insulation grant options now
Help of other kinds remains available. Your household income, where you live and, sometimes, your benefits determine what's available. Most schemes look at your EPC first, so check your rating before you apply.
- In Great Britain, ECO4 continues until 31 December 2026, Ofgem reports. People on certain benefits are its main focus.
- England: low-income homes rated D to G get free work through the Warm Homes: Local Grant.
- Wales: households on benefits or a low income can get free upgrades from Nest.
- Scotland: a Home Energy Scotland grant can pay up to 75% of insulation costs, capped at £7,500, for homeowners.
Common questions about the Great British Insulation Scheme
When did the Great British Insulation Scheme close?
Ofgem states that 31 March 2026 was the end date. All work needed to be complete by then.
Was GBIS limited to households on benefits?
No. Homes in lower council tax bands with an EPC rating from D to G were also covered.
What took the place of the Great British Insulation Scheme?
The government decided to stop supplier schemes of this kind. In England, grants like the Warm Homes: Local Grant are how low-income households get help now.
How do I make a complaint about insulation installed under the scheme?
Use the complaints guidance for Ofgem's Energy Company Obligation. Its scheme page on GOV.UK has the link.