UK Solar Panel Grants & Schemes 2025–26
Free and subsidised solar is available to millions of UK households. This guide covers every active government scheme — who qualifies, how much it's worth, and how to apply.
Last updated: 2026-05-01 · Methodology
Muhammad founded KilowattKit after spending hours trying to decode confusing electricity bills — and realising there were no simple, jargon-free tools to help ordinary homeowners understand their energy costs. He researches electricity rates, EV charging, solar payback, and heat pump economics across the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
Take our 2-minute eligibility checker — answer 6 questions and see exactly which schemes apply to your household.
All UK Solar Grants at a Glance
Free solar panels, insulation, and heating upgrades for households on qualifying benefits with a low EPC rating. No repayment required.
Labour's planned £6.6bn successor to ECO4, targeting lower-income households. Expected to cover solar, heat pumps, and insulation. Launching late 2025.
Since April 2022, all UK homeowners pay 0% VAT on solar panels, battery storage, and heat pump installations. Already applied by installers — no application needed.
Get paid for every kWh you export back to the grid. Rates range from 7p (British Gas, EDF) to 20p (Octopus Agile). Requires a SMETS2 smart meter.
Calculate your earnings →England and Wales homeowners replacing a fossil fuel boiler get £7,500 off an air source heat pump, or £7,500 off a ground source heat pump. Solar + heat pump is a powerful combination.
Funded loft and cavity wall insulation for homes with an EPC of D or below. Reduces heat loss, making your solar savings go further. Two routes: means-tested and general.
England only. For off-gas-grid homes (not connected to mains gas) with an EPC of D or below. Covers solar PV, insulation, and low-carbon heating. Applied via local council.
Many councils offer their own solar and energy efficiency grants, particularly for low-income residents. Some run Solar Together group-buying schemes at reduced prices.
Council-run group purchasing schemes that bulk-negotiate discounted solar installations for residents. Not technically a grant, but significant savings. Available in many English counties.
Quick Comparison: Which Grant Is Right for You?
| Scheme | Who qualifies | Max value | Covers solar? | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ECO4 | Low-income, benefits, EPC D–G | ~£15,000 | ✅ Yes | Open |
| Warm Homes Plan | Lower-income households | ~£15,000 | ✅ Expected | Late 2025 |
| 0% VAT | All UK homeowners | £1,500–£5,000 | ✅ Yes | Permanent |
| SEG | All solar owners + smart meter | £150–£600/yr | ✅ Ongoing export | Ongoing |
| BUS | England/Wales homeowners (heat pump) | £7,500 | ⚡ Heat pump only | Open |
| GBIS | EPC D–G households | Varies | 🧱 Insulation only | Open |
| HUG2 | England, off-gas, EPC D–G | £10,000 | ✅ Yes | Open |
Common Questions
Can I combine multiple grants?
Yes — in many cases grants stack. A low-income homeowner might get free solar through ECO4, 0% VAT automatically applied, GBIS insulation through their energy supplier, and then SEG payments once the panels are installed. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme for a heat pump can also be combined with solar in a separate installation.
Is solar worth it without a grant?
Yes, for most homeowners. A typical 4kWp system costs £7,000–£10,000 with 0% VAT applied. With 30–40% export via SEG at 15p/kWh and self-consumption savings at 24p/kWh import rate, payback is typically 8–12 years against a 25-year panel warranty. Our Solar Payback Calculator models your specific scenario.
How do I avoid solar panel scams?
Only use MCS-certified installers (check the MCS database at mcscertified.com). Legitimate grant applications are handled by your energy supplier or local council — not by cold-callers. You should never pay upfront for an ECO4 survey. If someone claims they can get you "free solar" in exchange for allowing them to install and keep the revenue, that is a solar farm lease — it is legal but you give up your roof for 20–25 years.