Addressing ECO Uncertainty in the Retrofit Sector in 2026
8th January 2026.
Understanding the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) Scheme
ECO is a government-backed scheme designed to improve the energy efficiency of homes in the UK and reduce fuel poverty. Under ECO, energy suppliers fund energy-efficiency and low-carbon heating measures for eligible households, with delivery relying on a trusted network of retrofit installers.
This ECO scheme has been a cornerstone of the retrofit market, driving long-term demand for measures such as insulation, heating upgrades, and whole-house retrofits. As a result, changes to the scheme have a direct and significant impact on installer confidence and workforce planning across the sector.
Understanding ECO Uncertainty and Recent Industry Announcements
ECO4, the current phase of the Energy Company Obligation scheme, is scheduled to run until March 2026. Recent announcements about the future of the ECO scheme eligibility and funding availability have created uncertainty across the sector, particularly for installers planning investments in 2026. While we await legislative changes coming into force and further clarity to be announced in the Warm Homes Plan in due course, many businesses are seeking reassurance.
Like many across the industry, we recognise the uncertainty created by the announcements around the future of ECO and share those concerns.
Qualitymark Protection’s Role in Supporting the Retrofit Sector
Qualitymark Protection wants to reassure our trusted installer partners that we have been actively engaging with the Government and other key ECO stakeholders involved for quite some time and will continue to do so.
Commenting on our plans to support the retrofit sector for the year ahead, Scott Day, Qualitymark Protection Managing Director, said:
Our focus remains on supporting high standards, protecting consumers, installers, and ensuring the long-term stability of the industry. 2026 will be a pivotal year for the retrofit sector, and it will be key for installers to be able to adapt to the changes we are all facing. ”
By working closely with stakeholders across the sector, we aim to help shape a stable, high-quality retrofit market that balances policy ambition with practical, deliverable outcomes for installers and households alike.
Preparing Installers for the Future of ECO and Retrofit in 2026
As the retrofit landscape evolves, installers will need to adapt to new funding mechanisms, updated compliance requirements and changing expectations around quality and consumer protection. Qualitymark Protection is committed to supporting installers through this transition.
We work with installers who are committed to high standards because they want to continue improving and future-proofing their businesses. With our industry expertise and focus on quality, we help installers prepare to face industry challenges.
By raising standards across the sector, we support better outcomes for consumers, stronger businesses for installers and a more resilient retrofit industry overall.
If you would like to understand how we can help you prepare for the year ahead and discuss potential new opportunities, please reach out to your dedicated Business Development Manager, or if you are interested in joining Qualitymark Protection, fill out our contact form to begin the process of becoming a trusted installer.