Are there free solar panel grants in the UK?

Some lower-income households may qualify for fully or partly funded solar through schemes like ECO4 or the Home Upgrade Grant, but eligibility is strict and assessed by accredited installers and local authorities.

What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?

The SEG requires larger UK energy suppliers to pay you for surplus solar electricity you export to the grid. Rates vary by supplier — compare current SEG rates when choosing a tariff.

Do I pay VAT on solar panels?

Most residential solar installations in the UK are zero-rated for VAT until 31 March 2027. Your installer will apply this automatically where applicable.

Does Home Energy Match administer grants?

No. We're an installer matching service. Grant eligibility is determined by the relevant scheme and the accredited installer carrying out the work.

Solar Guide

Solar Panel Grants UK

A plain-English overview of the UK schemes that may help you afford solar in 2026.

Several UK schemes can reduce the cost of solar — but eligibility varies and is almost always assessed by the installer and the scheme administrator. Home Energy Match does not run any grant scheme; we only connect you with installers who can advise on what applies to your home.

ECO4

The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) requires larger UK energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency measures — including solar in some cases — for households on certain benefits or in low-EPC-rated homes. Eligibility is strict and assessed by accredited installers.

Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)

For homes off the gas grid in lower council-tax bands, the Home Upgrade Grant can fund a range of low-carbon measures, sometimes including solar. Run through local authorities — check your council's current scheme.

0% VAT until 2027

The UK government has zero-rated VAT on most residential solar installations until 31 March 2027. This isn't a grant, but it does cut typical install costs by 5% compared to the historic 5% rate.

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

The SEG requires larger UK suppliers to pay you for surplus solar exported to the grid. Rates vary widely — shop around for the best export tariff once your system is installed.

How to find out what you qualify for

The fastest way is to get matched with installers who will assess your eligibility for any current scheme. Request solar quotes and ask each installer to confirm what may apply.

Why choose Home Energy Match

Free, no-obligation installer matching
UK-focused: we only work with installers covering UK postcodes
Multiple quotes so you can compare cost, warranty and approach
We do not sell your data to unrelated third parties
Transparent process — your enquiry is shared only with relevant installers

Find out what solar support you qualify for

Free, no-obligation matching with suitable UK installers in your area.

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Frequently asked questions

Are there free solar panel grants in the UK?: Some lower-income households may qualify for fully or partly funded solar through schemes like ECO4 or the Home Upgrade Grant, but eligibility is strict and assessed by accredited installers and local authorities.
What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?: The SEG requires larger UK energy suppliers to pay you for surplus solar electricity you export to the grid. Rates vary by supplier — compare current SEG rates when choosing a tariff.
Do I pay VAT on solar panels?: Most residential solar installations in the UK are zero-rated for VAT until 31 March 2027. Your installer will apply this automatically where applicable.
Does Home Energy Match administer grants?: No. We're an installer matching service. Grant eligibility is determined by the relevant scheme and the accredited installer carrying out the work.