Local Authority and Area-Based Energy Schemes are locally managed programmes designed to improve home energy efficiency, reduce fuel poverty and support households living in homes that are difficult or expensive to heat.

These schemes are delivered through councils, devolved governments and regional delivery partners, with funding coming from a mixture of Government-backed programmes, local authority initiatives and energy efficiency schemes.

Unlike national grant schemes that operate under one set of rules, local schemes are designed around regional housing needs. This means available improvements, funding levels and eligibility criteria can vary depending on where you live.

Many local schemes remain active across the UK, although support availability can differ between councils, regions and funding programmes.

What Improvements Could Be Available?

Depending on your local scheme and property assessment, support may include a range of energy-saving improvements.

Heating & Hot Water Improvements

Potential measures may include:

  • Smart heating controls
  • Programmable thermostats
  • High heat retention storage heaters
  • Low-carbon heating systems, including heat pumps where appropriate

Insulation Improvements

Available measures may include:

  • Loft insulation
  • Roof insulation
  • Cavity wall insulation
  • Internal wall insulation
  • External wall insulation
  • Floor insulation
  • Draught reduction measures

Additional Home Improvements

Some local schemes may also provide support for:

  • Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels
  • Energy-efficient windows and doors
  • Additional improvements based on local priorities

Available measures can vary depending on your area and property requirements.

Who Could Qualify?

Eligibility criteria vary depending on your local authority and regional programme.

You may qualify if:

  • Your household falls within local income thresholds
  • Your property has a lower energy rating, usually EPC D–G
  • Someone in the household is vulnerable to cold living conditions
  • Health conditions, disability or age-related vulnerabilities apply
  • Your property is located within a targeted area or postcode programme

Tenants may also qualify, although landlord permission is usually required in privately rented properties.

How The Process Works

Step 1 – Check Local Availability

Local support schemes vary across the UK, so availability usually depends on your council area and local funding arrangements.

Step 2 – Contact Grants Gateway

Grants Gateway can discuss current grants and available support routes through approved installer networks and local programmes.

Step 3 – Eligibility Review

You may be asked for information relating to:

  • Household income
  • Benefits information
  • EPC details
  • Health or vulnerability criteria
  • Property information

Step 4 – Property Assessment

A home assessment may be arranged to identify suitable improvements.

Step 5 – Landlord Consent

If you rent your property, written landlord permission may be required before work begins.

Step 6 – Approval & Funding

The council, delivery partner or installer confirms available measures and funding support.

Step 7 – Installation

Approved contractors complete any agreed improvements.

Regional Support & Advice Services

Scotland – Home Energy Scotland

Home Energy Scotland provides guidance on Area-Based Schemes and energy-saving support available through local authorities.

Telephone: 0808 808 2282

Wales – Nest

Nest is a Welsh Government programme providing advice and support for home energy improvements.

Telephone: 0808 808 2244

Northern Ireland – Affordable Warmth & Energy Advice

Northern Ireland operates separate support routes through Affordable Warmth and local energy advice services.

Telephone: 0800 111 4455

England

Support in England is usually delivered through local authorities, combined authorities, regional partnerships and ECO4 LA Flex arrangements.

Availability can vary depending on your location.

Need Advice On Current Grants?

Energy funding and local support schemes regularly change.

Contact Grants Gateway to discuss current grants and support routes that may apply to your household and property circumstances.