Storage Heating Grants in 2025: What’s New and What to Expect

As the UK ramps up efforts to tackle fuel poverty and reduce carbon emissions, 2025 brings new opportunities—and some important changes—to storage heating grants. With rising energy costs and an increasing focus on energy-efficient upgrades, now is a critical time for households relying on older electric heating systems to understand what support is available.

This article takes an objective look at what's new in 2025, who qualifies, and what households can expect going forward under government-funded schemes like ECO4 and LA Flex.

1. Key Changes in 2025

Several important developments have taken place in the current storage heating grant landscape:

• Broader Eligibility Under ECO4
  The ECO4 scheme, which runs until March 2026, has expanded its reach. While it initially focused on homes with an EPC rating of E, F, or G, certain EPC D-rated properties may now qualify—especially through local authority declarations via LA Flex.

• Smart High Heat Retention (HHR) Heaters Now Standard
  New grants prioritise modern HHR electric storage heaters. These systems come equipped with smart thermostats, fan-assisted technology, and programmable timers—dramatically improving energy efficiency and lowering running costs.

• Stronger Focus on Electrically Heated Homes
  Homes that rely on outdated electric radiators or panel heaters are being actively targeted for upgrades, particularly in off-gas areas where alternative heating options like gas boilers are not feasible.

• Improved Access Through LA Flex
  More councils are participating in the LA Flex route, which allows residents who don’t receive benefits to qualify based on income, health conditions, or vulnerability.

2. Who Can Apply for a Storage Heating Grant?

To be eligible for a storage heating upgrade under ECO4 or LA Flex in 2025, applicants generally must meet the following criteria:

• Be a homeowner or a private tenant (with landlord permission)

• Use electric heating as the main source of warmth (such as old storage heaters or electric panel heaters)

• Have an EPC rating of D to G

• Receive certain income-related benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support, Child Tax Credit, or Housing Benefit

• Alternatively, qualify through LA Flex based on low income, health conditions, or vulnerability—without needing to be on benefits

To check your eligibility or understand your home’s EPC status, you can visit the government’s Help to Heat information page.

3. What Is Covered Under the Grant?

Approved applicants under the ECO4 scheme can have the following costs fully or partially covered:

• Removal and replacement of outdated electric heating systems

• Installation of high heat retention electric storage heaters

• Integration of smart controls and thermostats

• Electrical safety upgrades where required

Installations are typically carried out by government-approved retrofit contractors, and the costs are covered by energy suppliers as part of their legal obligation to support energy efficiency.

You can explore more details through trusted information sources such as:
Simple Green Energy – Electric Storage Heater Grants
Available Grants – Electric Storage Heaters

4. Why Upgrade to Modern Storage Heaters?

Modern electric storage heaters offer substantial improvements over their older counterparts. Here’s why:

• Energy Efficiency: HHR heaters charge at night during off-peak hours and release heat gradually throughout the day. They use up to 30-50% less electricity than older models.

• Smart Features: Many include programmable controls, thermostats, and occupancy sensors—allowing users to heat only the rooms they need, when they need.

• Better Comfort: Advanced designs offer more consistent warmth and faster heat-up times.

• Eco-Friendly: By reducing electricity consumption, these systems lower a household’s carbon footprint.

5. What’s Ahead for 2025 and Beyond?

Although ECO4 is the flagship scheme, 2025 may see further developments in domestic energy grants. Here’s what to watch:

• ECO4 Ends in March 2026
  The window for applying is still open, but time is limited. Delays could risk missing out on full funding as targets fill.

• Potential New Funding Streams
  The government has signaled interest in expanding its “Help to Heat” initiatives. While storage heating is still primarily supported through ECO4, new schemes may soon be launched to target all-electric homes.

• Increased Local Authority Involvement
  Councils are becoming more proactive in offering tailored support through LA Flex, enabling more residents—especially those with health conditions or young children—to qualify.

• Technology Integration
  Some installers are beginning to integrate storage heaters with solar panels or battery systems, making electric heating even more cost-effective.

6. How to Get Started

If you're considering applying, here are your next steps:

1. Check your eligibility via the Help to Heat tool

2. Visit reputable providers, such as:

   • Simple Green Energy – Electric Storage Heater Grants

   • Simple Green Energy – Available Grants

3. Schedule a free home survey to assess your current heating system and EPC rating

4. Secure approval through an accredited ECO installer

5. Complete installation—typically within a few weeks of approval

Final Thoughts

Storage heating grants in 2025 offer a real opportunity to improve home comfort, reduce electricity bills, and cut carbon emissions. With wider eligibility, better technologies, and a ticking clock on ECO4, households using electric heating should explore their options now.

Whether you’re a tenant or homeowner, on benefits or qualifying via LA Flex, there are strong chances that you could benefit from a free upgrade to a smarter, more efficient storage heating system—if you act in time.