These are the current solar panel grants and schemes running in the UK for 2023.
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4 scheme)
Running between 1st April 2022-2026, this is a government energy-efficiency scheme aimed at making renewable energy sources like solar more accessible for low-income households.
Energy suppliers with over 150,000 customers are obligated to support eligible households and the amount of funding you receive depends on your eligibility and how effective solar is for your home.
You don’t need to apply for a grant from your supplier. So, find the one that best suits your needs from the eligibility criteria.
You can apply for the ECO4 grant if you’re receiving benefits and own your home, or if you rent and have permission from your landlord.
Read more about the ECO4 scheme here.
Smart Export Guarentee (SEG)
Launched in 2020, replacing the Feed-In-Tariff, the Smart Export Guarantee is a government initiative where energy suppliers with over 150,000 customers are required to pay homeowners for any excess solar-generated electricity produced from MCS-certified panels.
As part of this scheme households are required to have a registered smart meter to record exported electricity.
You can apply for this scheme through your energy supplier. Read more here.
VAT Reduction
The government introduced 0% VAT on the installation of energy-saving measures like solar panels, electric heat pumps, and home insulation, to help support high energy bills. This runs until April 1st 2027.
Read more about VAT reduction here.
The Green Deal
Originally government funded, this now-private loan repayment scheme is designed to help households manage the upfront cost of a solar installation, spreading the cost over 10-25 years.
Whether you have an electricity meter or a prepayment meter, you can be eligible for this scheme. Once your property is assessed, you can apply for a Green Deal Finance Plan.
Read more about the scheme here.