Solar panel grants and support in the UK
A current guide to solar panel grants, VAT relief, SEG export payments and ECO4 support for eligible households.
Key takeaways
- Energy Saving Trust says there aren't dedicated UK Government solar panel grants for England and Wales.
- 0% VAT on qualifying installed energy-saving materials is currently a major support route.
- ECO4 has been extended to 31 December 2026 and is targeted, not universal.
The honest answer
Most homeowners looking for a simple national grant for solar panels will be disappointed. Energy Saving Trust says there aren't dedicated solar panel grants from the UK Government, although some people may get support through other schemes or supplier-led programmes.
That doesn't mean there's no help at all. It means the help usually comes through VAT relief, export payments or targeted energy efficiency schemes rather than a straightforward cheque for solar.
0% VAT
The biggest widely available support is the temporary VAT zero rate for qualifying installed energy-saving materials. GOV.UK says this applies from 1 May 2023 to 31 March 2027, after which the reduced 5% rate is due to return unless policy changes.
Because VAT is normally a big slice of a home improvement bill, this can make a real difference to the installed cost.
SEG export payments
SEG isn't a grant, but it is financial support for exported electricity. Eligible solar owners can apply to a SEG licensee for an export tariff. Suppliers set the rates, and Ofgem says SEG tariffs must be above zero.
You still need the right paperwork, metering and export MPAN. If those are missing, the best export rate on the market won't help.
ECO4 and local schemes
ECO4 is aimed at improving eligible homes and reducing heating costs. The government response published in January 2026 confirmed ECO4 is extended to 31 December 2026. This isn't open to everyone, and eligibility depends on the scheme route, property and household circumstances.
Some councils and devolved schemes may offer support. The boring but sensible move is to start with official council, GOV.UK, Ofgem and Energy Saving Trust information before giving personal details to a lead-generation site.
- Be wary of cold calls claiming everyone qualifies for free solar.
- Check whether the installer is TrustMark or scheme-approved where required.
- Ask who owns the panels after installation.
- Ask whether accepting support affects warranties, export payments or future work.
Sources checked
- Energy Saving Trust solar panel guideConsumer guidance on costs, payback, savings and maintenance.
- GOV.UK VAT Notice 708/6VAT treatment for installed energy-saving materials.
- Ofgem SEG guidance for generatorsOfficial SEG eligibility, certification, metering and payment guidance.
- GOV.UK ECO4 extension outcomeGovernment response confirming ECO4 extension to 31 December 2026.
- Ofgem ECO public reports and dataOfgem scheme reporting for ECO4 obligations.