The UK Government has launched an ECO4 Consultation on the future of the Energy Company Obligation scheme, currently scheduled to end on 31 March 2026.
What Is ECO4?
The ECO4 scheme requires larger energy suppliers to deliver energy efficiency and heating measures in homes across Great Britain, helping households reduce their energy bills, improve warmth, and cut carbon emissions.
The ECO4 Consultation
This new ECO4 Consultation sets out proposals to extend the scheme by 6 to 9 months beyond its current end date. The extension is proposed to ensure continued support for households, while also giving time to strengthen consumer protections under ECO4. It would also provide valuable certainty to the supply chain, helping installers, manufacturers, and other stakeholders maintain stability as potential future schemes are developed.
Another key proposal within the consultation is the introduction of carry-over. This would allow obligated suppliers to deliver beyond their existing targets, with any additional work counting towards a possible future obligation. This flexibility could provide both continuity for suppliers and reassurance for households expecting long-term support.
Who Should Respond?
The ECO4 Consultation is open to all, but is of particular relevance to:
- Energy suppliers
- Installers of energy efficiency and heating measures
- Manufacturers of energy efficiency products and software developers
- Local authorities
- Consumer groups
- Academic organisations
This is an important opportunity for energy professionals to contribute to the future of the ECO framework. By engaging with the consultation, the industry can help shape policy that delivers meaningful benefits for households while maintaining a stable pipeline of work for the sector.
