Important Notice
Grant information is sourced from government publications, Ofgem, and local authority websites. Eligibility criteria and scheme availability change regularly. We are an independent information service. Always verify current eligibility directly with the relevant scheme provider.
The Honest Picture
There is no universal government grant that gives everyone free or subsidised solar panels. Websites claiming "free solar panels for all" are misleading. However, specific support does exist for eligible households, particularly those on lower incomes or qualifying benefits. The 0% VAT rate applies to everyone.
Available Funding and Support
0% VAT on Residential Solar
According to HMRC, residential solar panel installations attract 0% VAT until at least March 2027. This applies to both the panels and the installation labour, saving homeowners approximately £1,000-£2,000 compared to the standard 20% VAT rate.
ECO4 Scheme
According to Ofgem, the Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) requires large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements for eligible households. Solar panels can be installed as part of a package of measures. Eligibility typically requires the household to receive qualifying benefits and the property to have a lower EPC rating.
Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)
According to government publications, the Home Upgrade Grant provides funding for energy efficiency improvements in off-gas-grid homes. Solar panels may be included as part of a package of measures. Eligibility is income-based and delivered through local authorities.
Local Authority Flex (LA Flex)
According to Ofgem, LA Flex allows local authorities to refer households to the ECO scheme based on local criteria, even if the household does not receive qualifying benefits. This widens eligibility for those on low incomes or in fuel poverty. Contact your local council to check if they operate an LA Flex scheme.
What is NOT Available
Common Misconceptions
- No universal "free solar panels" scheme. Despite what some websites claim, there is no government programme offering free solar panels to all homeowners.
- The Feed-in Tariff is closed. The Feed-in Tariff closed to new applicants in March 2019. It has been replaced by the Smart Export Guarantee, which pays lower rates set commercially by suppliers.
- The Boiler Upgrade Scheme does not cover solar panels. This scheme provides vouchers for heat pumps and biomass boilers, not solar PV panels.
Check Your Grant Eligibility
Find out if you qualify for funded solar panel installation through ECO4 or other government-backed schemes.
Key Eligibility Factors:
- Low-income household
- Property EPC rating D-G
- Owner-occupier or private tenant
Get comprehensive property analysis with grant recommendations, savings estimates, and installer connections.
Full Property AnalysisCheck Your Solar Panel Funding Options
We can help you understand which funding options may be available for your property and circumstances.
Free eligibility check. No obligation.
How to Access Solar Panel Funding
Check Eligibility
Use the eligibility checker above to find out which schemes you may qualify for based on your circumstances.
Contact Your Council
Your local authority can advise on LA Flex eligibility and local energy efficiency schemes available in your area.
Get Assessed
An assessor visits your property to determine which energy efficiency measures are suitable and confirm eligibility.
Installation
If approved, a certified installer carries out the work. For fully funded schemes, there is no cost to the homeowner.
Related Guides
ECO4 Scheme Guide
Full details on ECO4 eligibility, qualifying benefits, and how to apply.
Read guideSolar Panel Costs
What solar panels cost if you are paying out of pocket, with payback analysis.
See costsSolar Panels Guide
Complete introduction to solar panels, how they work, and panel types available.
Read guideCheck Your Solar Panel Eligibility
Find out if you qualify for funded solar panel installation through government-backed schemes.