Are there solar panel grants in the UK in 2026?
There is no universal cash grant for solar panels in the UK in 2026, but two things meaningfully reduce the cost: 0% VAT on all residential solar and battery installations, and means-tested schemes such as ECO4 and the Great British Insulation Scheme for eligible low-income or vulnerable households. Some councils also run local time-limited schemes.
What support exists
- 0% VAT on residential solar and batteries (applies to everyone, already in your price).
- ECO4: help for low-income and vulnerable households, often with insulation.
- Great British Insulation Scheme: broader energy efficiency support.
- Local council schemes: occasional, area-specific and time-limited.
How to check eligibility
Grant schemes are usually tied to income, benefits or your home's energy rating. Check the latest government guidance and your local council, as criteria and budgets change. For most homeowners, the headline saving is the 0% VAT plus the ongoing Smart Export Guarantee income, both reflected in SunSum's estimates.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I get free solar panels from a grant?
- Only eligible low-income households via means-tested schemes like ECO4. There is no universal free-solar grant for everyone.
- Do grants change often?
- Yes. Always confirm current schemes and budgets with government and council sources before relying on them.
Related questions
Indicative estimates based on UK average data. Last updated 27 May 2026.