“Are there any grants for solar panels?” is one of the most common questions we hear — and the answer has changed a lot over the years. While the old feed-in tariff has gone, there are still several genuine ways to reduce the cost of going solar in 2026. Here’s an honest, up-to-date rundown of what’s actually available and who qualifies.
0% VAT on solar and battery installations
This is the big one that applies to almost everyone. Residential solar panel and battery storage installations currently qualify for zero-rated VAT in the UK — a saving of 20% compared with a few years ago. It’s not a grant you apply for; it’s applied automatically to the cost of a qualifying installation, so every homeowner benefits without any paperwork.
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
The SEG isn’t a grant towards installation, but it’s a genuine ongoing income stream. Energy suppliers pay you for the surplus electricity your panels export to the grid, which improves your overall return. We explain exactly how it works in our Smart Export Guarantee guide — and every system we install is registered for it.
The ECO4 scheme
The government’s Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme requires larger energy suppliers to help fund energy-efficiency and heating improvements — which can include solar in some cases — for eligible households. Eligibility is typically tied to receiving certain benefits or living in a low-income or low-efficiency home. If you think you might qualify, it’s worth checking, as support can be substantial for those who are eligible.
Local and time-limited schemes
From time to time, local authorities and community energy groups run grant or group-buying schemes that can cut the cost of solar for residents in a particular area. These come and go, and availability across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire varies. When we quote for your home, we’ll flag any current scheme you may be eligible for.
Financing your installation
Beyond grants, spreading the cost can make solar more accessible. Finance options let you pay over time while the system starts saving on your bills straight away. As a regulated introducer, we can talk you through finance alongside your quote so you can weigh up paying upfront versus monthly.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a free solar panel grant?
Genuinely “free” solar is rare and usually tied to specific eligibility under schemes like ECO4. Be cautious of any offer that sounds too good to be true. For most homeowners, the real savings come from 0% VAT, export payments and the long-term bill reductions.
Do I need to apply for the 0% VAT?
No — it’s applied automatically to qualifying residential solar and battery installations, so there’s no form to fill in.
How do I know which schemes I qualify for?
The quickest way is to ask when you get a quote. We’ll tell you which current incentives and any local schemes apply to your specific situation.
Find out what you could save
Between 0% VAT, export payments and any schemes you qualify for, going solar is more affordable than many people assume. As MCS-certified installers across Dorset, Hampshire and Wiltshire, we’ll lay out exactly what’s available for your home. Get a free, no-obligation quote.
This guide is part of our complete guide to solar panels.