What solar panel grants and incentives are available in the UK in 2026?

In 2026, the main ways UK households can reduce the cost of solar typically include the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) for payments on exported electricity, 0% VAT on eligible energy-saving materials (including solar PV and batteries, subject to government rules), and targeted local authority or regional schemes that may offer funding or discounts. Eligibility and availability can vary by location, property type and installer accreditation.

Is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) available in 2026 and how does it work?

Yes—SEG is an ongoing UK scheme where licensed electricity suppliers pay you for renewable electricity you export to the grid. To qualify, your solar PV system must be installed by an MCS-certified installer (or equivalent certification where applicable) and you’ll typically need an export-capable smart meter. SEG rates vary by supplier, so comparing tariffs can increase your return.

Can I get 0% VAT on solar panels and battery storage in 2026?

Many UK homeowners can benefit from a 0% VAT rate on the supply and installation of qualifying energy-saving materials, which can include solar PV and battery storage (depending on the specific policy rules in force). Your installer should confirm eligibility and provide VAT-inclusive pricing so you can see the saving upfront.

Are there solar grants for low-income households in the UK?

In some areas, support may be available for eligible low-income households via local authority, devolved administration or energy-efficiency programmes that sometimes include solar PV. These schemes can open and close depending on funding, so it’s worth checking current eligibility and availability for your postcode.

Do I need planning permission to install solar panels in the UK?

Most home solar PV installations are permitted development, meaning planning permission is often not required. However, extra rules may apply for listed buildings, conservation areas, flats, or if panels protrude beyond certain limits. A reputable installer can advise based on your property and local planning guidance.

What makes me eligible for SEG payments?

To receive SEG export payments you generally need: (1) an eligible renewable installation such as solar PV, (2) certification such as MCS for the installation, and (3) an export meter reading—usually via a smart meter capable of measuring export. Your chosen SEG supplier may have additional requirements and contract terms.

Is solar worth it in 2026 without a grant?

Solar can still be worthwhile without a grant because savings primarily come from using your own electricity instead of buying from the grid, plus SEG export payments for surplus generation. Adding a battery can increase self-consumption, which can improve payback—especially if you’re home during the day or can shift usage to daylight hours.

Can I combine a solar incentive with a battery storage system?

Yes. A battery can be installed alongside solar to store excess generation for evening use. You can still export surplus electricity under SEG when your battery is full (subject to metering and supplier terms). Your installer can design the system to maximise self-consumption and ensure correct metering setup.

How do I find out what grants are available in my area?

Grant availability can be postcode-specific. The fastest approach is to request a tailored assessment and quote, then check whether any local authority schemes or regional funding apply to your property. You can start here: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/solar/

How can I get a quote for solar panels and check eligibility for incentives?

You can request a solar assessment and quotation through Energy Plus. A survey will confirm roof suitability, system size, expected savings, and any applicable incentives such as SEG and VAT relief. Get started here: https://www.energyplus.co.uk/solar/

Best solar panel grants and incentives UK 2026

Compare whole-of-market solar quotes and check which UK solar grants, VAT savings and export payments you may qualify for in 2026. Get installer prices matched to your home and postcode.

See today’s 0% VAT position, export tariff options and local funding routes
Find MCS-certified installers and finance options available in your area
Personalised savings estimate based on roof size, usage and postcode
No obligation: compare quotes before you decide

Check eligibility & get quotes See 2026 grants & incentives

EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service for UK homes. Availability of schemes can vary by nation, council and supplier. Always confirm terms before you apply.

Check which solar grants and incentives you could use in 2026

In the UK, solar “grants” are often delivered through a mix of national tax relief (like 0% VAT), export payments (Smart Export Guarantee), and local or supplier-funded schemes that can open and close throughout the year. The best route depends on where you live, your roof, and whether you’re adding a battery.

EnergyPlus helps you compare whole-of-market solar options for your home and understand which incentives may be relevant to your situation. We’ll match you with suitable MCS-certified installers (a common requirement for SEG export tariffs and many funding routes).

Tip: The “best” incentive is usually a combination: 0% VAT + a good installer price + SEG export payments + any local support you’re eligible for.

What you’ll get from this page

A clear breakdown of 2026 UK solar incentives (what they are and who they’re for)
Eligibility checklist and the documents you may need
How to avoid common “grant” pitfalls (inflated prices, non-qualifying installs)
A quick form to compare quotes for your postcode

Get solar quotes for your home

Complete the form to compare whole-of-market installers and see which incentives may apply in your area.

What happens next?

We match you with suitable installers for your postcode
You compare quotes, equipment and estimated payback
If you proceed, your installer helps confirm eligibility (e.g. MCS, DNO, SEG)

Why homeowners use EnergyPlus to compare solar in 2026

Whole-of-market comparison

Compare across multiple installer options rather than a single brand. See differences in panels, inverters, batteries, warranties and pricing.

Incentive-aware quotes

We help you understand how 0% VAT, SEG export tariffs and local support may affect the net cost and payback.

UK-home focused guidance

Clear explanations for typical UK roofs, smart meters, DNO approvals and what “MCS certified” means in practical terms.

Avoid expensive mistakes

Spot red flags like inflated “grant included” pricing, missing certification, unrealistic savings claims, or undersized systems.

Work around your schedule

Get quotes by email/phone and compare at your own pace. No pressure to sign on the day.

Better long-term value

A cheaper system isn’t always better. We help you compare warranties, performance, monitoring and aftercare support.

Solar grants and incentives in the UK (2026 overview)

When people search for the “best solar panel grants and incentives UK 2026”, they usually mean ways to reduce the upfront cost and improve payback. Below are the main routes for home solar. Some are UK-wide, while others vary by nation, council or energy supplier.

Incentive / scheme	What it does	Who it’s for	Key notes (2026)
0% VAT on solar & batteries	Reduces upfront installation cost by removing VAT on eligible energy-saving materials.	Most UK homeowners installing solar PV and/or batteries at home.	Eligibility depends on product type and installation at a residential property. Confirm with your installer and invoice.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)	Pays you for electricity you export to the grid.	Homes with an eligible solar PV system and export-capable meter setup.	Rates vary by supplier; payments depend on exports and tariff. MCS certification is commonly required.
Local authority / council schemes	May offer funding, group buying, discounted installs, or referrals.	Typically postcode-based; sometimes income/benefits-linked.	Availability changes; budgets may be limited. Often prioritises efficiency measures first.
Supplier/installer promotions	Short-term discounts, finance deals, or battery bundles.	Homeowners who can pass credit checks (for finance) or meet promo terms.	Compare carefully: discounts can be offset by higher base prices or weaker warranties.
Home upgrade funding (varies)	Some programmes support low-income or inefficient homes (often insulation/heating first; solar sometimes included).	Eligibility often based on EPC, benefits, or local criteria.	If solar is offered, it’s usually part of a package. Check your nation/council criteria.

Important: If you see an advert promising “free solar panels from the Government”, check the terms carefully. Many offers are not grants; they may be finance agreements, leases, or limited local trials.

0% VAT on solar panels and batteries (UK homes)

One of the biggest savings most homeowners can access is 0% VAT on eligible solar PV installations. In practical terms, if an installer’s quote would normally include VAT, the 0% VAT treatment can reduce the total invoice value for qualifying work.

What to check on your quote

VAT line on the invoice: ask the installer to show VAT clearly and confirm the applicable rate for your installation.
Property type: the relief is aimed at residential installations (your home, not commercial premises).
What’s included: solar panels, inverter, mounting, wiring, and batteries may qualify when supplied and installed as part of the eligible works.

Comparison tip: When comparing solar quotes, always compare like-for-like on total price, panel/inverter model, warranty terms, and monitoring. A “VAT saving” should not be used to mask a higher base price.

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) 2026: get paid for exported solar

The Smart Export Guarantee is the main UK mechanism that pays households for electricity exported to the grid from solar panels. You choose an export tariff from a participating supplier; the rate and terms vary.

Typical SEG eligibility checklist

Solar PV system installed at a UK residential property
Installer certification (commonly MCS or an equivalent route)
Appropriate metering/export setup (often a smart meter)
Grid connection permissions as required (DNO process where applicable)

How SEG affects payback

SEG rewards exporting, but most savings still come from using your solar at home. Adding a battery can increase self-consumption and reduce exports (which may lower SEG income but increase bill savings). The best setup depends on your usage pattern.

When you request quotes, ask installers to model your system with and without a battery and show assumptions for daytime usage and export.

Good to know: You don’t have to stay with your current energy supplier for export. Many households import from one supplier and export under a different SEG tariff (subject to each supplier’s terms).

Eligibility: what typically matters for solar support in 2026

Different schemes use different rules, but most checks fall into a few categories. Use this as a quick pre-check before you apply or book a survey.

Your home

Nation/region and council area
Ownership/permission (owner-occupier, landlord consent)
Roof condition and shading

Your system spec

MCS-certified products/installer route
Inverter and export limitation settings
Battery inclusion (if any)

Your circumstances

Household income/benefits (for targeted schemes)
EPC rating (often relevant for upgrade programmes)
Ability to fund upfront or via finance

Documents you may be asked for: proof of address, property ownership/tenancy permission, recent energy bills, an EPC (if required by a specific programme), and installation certificates for SEG.

How to maximise incentives: a simple 2026 checklist

Most missed savings come from rushing a decision or choosing an installer who can’t support the certification/metering steps needed for export payments. Follow this process to keep it straightforward.

Get at least 2–3 comparable quotes. Compare panel wattage, inverter type, battery size (if any), and warranty terms — not just the headline price.
Confirm 0% VAT eligibility on the written quote. Ask for a clear breakdown and make sure it’s reflected on the invoice.
Check certification requirements early. If you want SEG, confirm the installer route and documentation you’ll receive.
Plan for grid connection approvals if needed. Your installer should advise on any DNO steps and timelines.
Choose an export tariff after installation. Compare SEG rates and terms; keep copies of certificates and commissioning docs.

If you’re unsure: start with the quote comparison. A proper survey will confirm shading, roof integrity and cable routes — which affects real-world generation more than “grant hunting”.

Common mistakes when searching for “solar grants” (and how to avoid them)

Mistake: believing “free solar” ads

If the offer depends on a long contract, lease, or finance product, it may not be a grant. Always ask who owns the system, who gets SEG payments, and what happens if you sell your home.

Mistake: comparing “system size” only

Two 4kW systems can perform differently depending on panel quality, inverter type, roof orientation and shading. Ask for estimated annual generation (kWh) and assumptions.

Mistake: ignoring export/metering requirements

Export payments can require specific documentation and metering. Confirm the installer provides commissioning paperwork and supports the handover process.

Mistake: overbuying a battery

Batteries can improve self-consumption, but sizing should match your evening/night usage. Ask for a model showing typical daily cycles and realistic savings.

FAQs: solar grants and incentives UK 2026

Are there UK Government grants for solar panels in 2026?

For many households, support is delivered via 0% VAT and SEG export payments, plus occasional local or supplier schemes. “Grant” availability can vary by region and eligibility criteria, so it’s best to check what’s open in your postcode and compare quotes.

Can I get a grant if I’m on benefits or a low income?

Some targeted home upgrade programmes prioritise low-income households or homes with low EPC ratings. Solar may be included as part of a package, often alongside insulation or heating improvements. Eligibility and availability are usually local/nation-specific and can change during the year.

Do I need MCS certification for SEG?

Many SEG suppliers require evidence that your system meets recognised installation standards, commonly via MCS certification (or an accepted equivalent route). Always check the export tariff’s requirements before choosing an installer if SEG income is important to you.

Will solar still be worth it if grants are limited?

For many homes, the value comes from reducing imported electricity by using solar generation on-site. Incentives like 0% VAT and SEG can improve the numbers, but your roof suitability, usage pattern and installed price are usually the biggest drivers.

How long does it take to install solar panels?

A typical residential solar PV install is often completed within 1–2 days once surveys and approvals are in place. Timelines can vary depending on roof work, electrical upgrades, and any grid connection steps.

Can I add a battery later and still claim incentives?

Often yes, but the best approach depends on your existing setup and the incentive you’re targeting. If you want the simplest paperwork and best integration, discuss future battery readiness with your installer (inverter compatibility, space, and wiring) at the quote stage.

Social proof: what homeowners tell us matters most

“We didn’t realise export payments depended on the paperwork. Comparing quotes helped us pick an installer who explained the SEG steps properly.”

Homeowner, West Midlands

“The cheapest quote wasn’t the best. We chose a slightly higher price with better warranty and monitoring. The comparison made it obvious.”

Homeowner, Greater Manchester

“We wanted a battery but weren’t sure on size. The installer modelled our usage and explained the trade-off between SEG exports and self-use.”

Homeowner, Kent

Trust checks to use when comparing: look for MCS certification, clear written warranties, transparent performance assumptions, and a detailed itemised quote.

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Updated on 13 Jan 2026