Solar Panel Grants UK 2026

Discover what funding options may be available for solar panels and check if you could qualify in under 60 seconds.

Are there grants for solar panels in the UK?

The UK does not currently offer a universal “free solar panels” programme for all homeowners. However, several schemes may help reduce or cover the cost of solar PV installation for eligible households:

ECO4 — can fund solar panels as part of a whole-house energy efficiency upgrade for eligible low-income and vulnerable households.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) — pays you for surplus electricity exported back to the grid from your solar panels.
Local authority schemes — some councils offer solar grants or group-buying programmes for residents.
0% VAT on solar — residential solar panel installations currently attract 0% VAT, reducing overall cost.

ECO4 and solar panel funding

ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation 4) requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements for qualifying households. While commonly associated with insulation and heating, ECO4 can also include solar PV where it contributes to improving a home’s overall energy performance.

To be considered for ECO4-funded solar panels, your property typically needs an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G, and you must either receive qualifying benefits or meet local authority flexible eligibility (LA Flex) criteria. Solar is usually included as part of a broader package of measures rather than installed in isolation.

Smart Export Guarantee explained

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) requires licensed electricity suppliers to offer a tariff for small-scale renewable electricity exported to the grid. If you install solar panels, you can earn money for any surplus energy your home does not use.

SEG is not a grant — it does not pay for installation — but it provides ongoing income that improves the financial return of solar panels. Tariff rates vary between suppliers, so it is worth comparing offers. Your installation must be MCS-certified to qualify.

Local authority solar schemes

Some councils run their own solar programmes, often funded through the Local Authority Delivery (LAD) scheme, Warm Homes: Local Grant, or devolved funding. These may offer fully funded or subsidised solar installations to eligible residents.

Availability varies by area and funding cycle. Contact your local council’s energy efficiency team or use our eligibility checker to see if local schemes may apply to your area.

Who may qualify for solar panel support?

Eligibility varies by scheme. You may be considered if:

You own your property (or have landlord consent for rented homes)
Your home has a suitable roof orientation and structural capacity
Your EPC rating is D, E, F, or G (for ECO4 and similar schemes)
You receive qualifying benefits or meet LA Flex income criteria
You live in an area with active local authority solar funding

Eligibility is always subject to scheme requirements, available funding, and property assessment by an MCS-certified installer. Results from our checker are for guidance only.

How much funding could be available?

The amount depends on the scheme and your circumstances. ECO4 may fund the full cost of a solar installation for qualifying households as part of a wider energy efficiency package. Local authority schemes may offer full or partial funding.

A typical domestic solar PV system costs between £5,000 and £10,000 before any support. The 0% VAT already reduces costs, and SEG income further improves payback periods. A professional survey confirms what size system suits your property and what funding may apply.

How to check eligibility

Use our free 60-second eligibility checker below.
Answer questions about your home, EPC, and household circumstances.
See which solar funding routes may be worth exploring.
Confirm with an approved MCS-certified installer or your local authority.

Start Free Eligibility Check

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Energy Checker is an independent guidance website. We are not a government body and do not approve grant applications. Information is for guidance only and does not constitute a guarantee of eligibility or funding. Final eligibility is determined by the scheme provider, your local authority, and a certified installer assessment. Subject to scheme requirements and available funding.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get free solar panels from the government?

There is no standalone government scheme that provides entirely free solar panels to all homeowners. However, ECO4 and some local authority programmes may fund solar PV installation for eligible low-income or vulnerable households. Eligibility depends on your property, EPC rating, and household circumstances.

Are solar panel grants available in 2026?

Yes. ECO4 continues to operate and can include solar PV where appropriate. The Smart Export Guarantee pays for exported electricity. Some local authorities also run solar schemes. Availability depends on funding allocation and may change during the year.

Can pensioners get help with solar panels?

Pensioners receiving Pension Credit or other qualifying benefits may be eligible for ECO4-funded solar panels. Local authority schemes may also prioritise older or vulnerable residents. Each programme has its own criteria.

Do I need to be on benefits to qualify?

Not always. While ECO4 typically requires qualifying benefits or local authority flex eligibility, the Smart Export Guarantee is open to all households with solar panels. Some local council schemes have broader eligibility criteria that do not require benefit receipt.

How do I check if I qualify?

Use the free eligibility checker on this page. Answer a few questions about your home, heating, and circumstances to see which schemes may be worth exploring. Final eligibility is always confirmed by the scheme provider and a certified installer.

Ready to check your eligibility?

Answer a few quick questions about your home and see which solar panel funding routes may be worth exploring.

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