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There is no universal free-solar scheme, but eligible households may receive fully funded panels through ECO4 or the Warm Homes: Local Grant. Other households can benefit from 0% VAT and Smart Export Guarantee payments.
Check Eligibility NowThe 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 (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.
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.
In England, the Warm Homes: Local Grant can fund council-arranged solar panels alongside other energy-saving improvements. A home must usually be privately owned or rented, have an EPC of D to G, and meet household income, benefit or postcode-based eligibility rules.
Funding and the measures recommended depend on the property survey and local availability. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have separate support routes, so applicants should check the relevant national or local scheme rather than assuming the English grant applies.
Eligibility varies by scheme. You may be considered if:
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.
The amount depends on the scheme and your circumstances. ECO4 may fund solar as part of a wider energy efficiency package. Under the Warm Homes: Local Grant, an eligible council-approved improvement is arranged and paid for, although landlords may be required to contribute.
If you do not qualify for funded work, 0% VAT reduces the installation price and Smart Export Guarantee payments can improve the long-term return. A professional survey confirms what system suits the property and any current funding route.
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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.
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.
Yes, but there is no universal cash grant for every homeowner. ECO4 and the Warm Homes: Local Grant can include solar PV for eligible households, while the Smart Export Guarantee pays owners for electricity exported to the grid.
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.
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.
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.
Answer a few quick questions about your home and see which solar panel funding routes may be worth exploring.
Check Eligibility Now