Retrofit Funding Options

Upgrading your home to be more energy efficient — through insulation, new heating systems, glazing, or renewable energy — is one of the best investments you can make. But retrofit projects often require significant upfront costs. At Natureworks Design, we believe finance should never be the barrier to creating a sustainable, healthy home.

This page outlines some of the funding options available for retrofit projects in the UK, so you can explore the right pathway for your situation.

1. Government Grants and Support

Funding schemes change regularly, but some key options include:

  • Boiler Upgrade Scheme – grants of up to £7,500 towards air-source or ground-source heat pumps.

  • ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation) – support for low-income households to improve insulation, heating, and efficiency.

  • Home Upgrade Grant (HUG) – support for off-gas homes to install insulation and renewables (subject to local authority).

  • Local Council Initiatives – some councils run their own retrofit support programmes — we can help you check what’s available in your borough.

2. Green Mortgages

Many lenders now offer “green mortgages” — with lower rates, cashback, or higher borrowing potential if you are investing in an energy-efficient property or retrofit improvements.

3. Energy-Efficient Loans

Specialist loans are available for retrofit projects, sometimes with preferential terms:

  • Home improvement loans targeted at energy efficiency.

  • Some building societies and ethical banks support eco-retrofits specifically.

4. Self-Funding with Staged Retrofit

Not every retrofit has to happen at once. We often work with clients on a phased plan, spreading the cost over several years. This allows you to invest steadily — insulation one year, windows the next, renewables later — while reaping benefits along the way.

5. Community and Co-operative Models

For housing co-ops or groups of neighbours, retrofit can sometimes be funded collectively:

  • Shared purchasing power can reduce costs.

  • Some grants are available for community-led housing and energy projects.

Why Funding Matters

Retrofit is not just an expense — it’s an investment. Upgrading your home reduces energy bills, increases comfort, improves health, and boosts long-term property value. Many of our clients find that with the right funding option, retrofitting is both affordable and transformative.

Interested in exploring retrofit for your home? We can help you assess funding options alongside our design and audit services. Get in touch with us.