Next Energy welcomed the long-awaited consultation on the extension of the current iteration of
the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4). This extension represents a crucial opportunity to bridge
the gap to the Warm Homes Plan and ensure a smooth transition into the next phase of
government support.
However.
We are concerned that some of the proposed parameters risk falling short of the policy’s original
intent and could unintentionally weaken delivery, disrupt the supply chain, and delay support for
the households that need it most.
Over the past month, we have engaged extensively with a wide range of stakeholders — including
installers, local authorities, energy suppliers, educational institutions, and system providers. The
feedback has been clear and consistent: the sector needs a framework that sustains momentum,
protects jobs and skills, and builds the capacity required to scale delivery under the Warm Homes
Plan.
This consultation period is a pivotal moment for the retrofit sector. The decisions made now will
not only shape the remaining months of ECO4 but will also influence the market, the workforce,
and consumer confidence for years ahead. We urge all stakeholders to engage with the
consultation, share their insights, and help ensure that the final framework reflects both the needs
of the sector and the households we collectively serve.
We would like to share our responses we have provided to DESNZ earlier today, all of which can be
found by clicking this link, and encourage all our connections here to do the same.
A reminder — submissions must be made by Thursday, 25 September 2025, via the DESNZ website.
Jon Furlong
Head of ECO
Next Energy
