Grant rejections can often be challenged, but the right next step depends on the energy grant scheme, eligibility criteria and reason for rejection. Get the decision in writing, check the evidence used and follow the scheme’s formal review or complaints process.
Step 1: Get the rejection reason in writing
Ask for a written explanation of why your home energy grant application was rejected, including the specific eligibility rule or evidence used to make the decision. If you only received a verbal response, contact the scheme provider, installer or local authority and request the full reason in writing before deciding whether to appeal or reapply.
Common rejection reasons and responses
- “Your EPC rating does not qualify”: Check the EPC used in your energy grant application, particularly if it is old or you believe the assessment does not accurately reflect your property. A new EPC may help where the previous assessment is no longer valid or contains incorrect information, although it does not guarantee eligibility.
- “Your income does not meet the threshold”: Check the income rules for the specific grant scheme and whether your household circumstances have changed. Provide supporting evidence such as payslips, benefit letters, tax documents or other proof requested by the scheme.
- “Your property or wall type is not eligible”: Ask how the property was assessed and what evidence was used. If eligibility was determined from desktop records alone, ask whether a physical property survey or additional evidence is available.
- “The measure is not eligible”: Check the exact rules for the grant, as schemes such as ECO4, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and Warm Homes: Local Grant have different eligible measures and requirements. (ofgem.gov.uk)
Who to escalate to
- ECO4: Start with the relevant energy supplier or scheme provider and follow its complaints process. Ofgem can provide information about the ECO complaints process, but it does not directly handle complaints about individual ECO installations. (ofgem.gov.uk)
- Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS): The scheme is installer-led. For questions about an application or voucher, contact BUS.Enquiry@ofgem.gov.uk. For certain Ofgem decisions, the installer can request a statutory review within the required timeframe. (ofgem.gov.uk)
- Warm Homes: Local Grant: Contact your local authority or its delivery partner and use the local appeals or complaints process, as councils administer delivery of the scheme in participating areas. (gov.uk)
Citizens Advice can also provide independent guidance on energy problems and help you understand your options when dealing with an energy supplier or support scheme.
