2026 grants for PV panels and other home energy solutions you should know about
Grants for PV panels can help you get a faster ROI and payback on your purchase and other fees. Keeping up to date with the latest policies heading into 2026 can help you with your PV system costs, or if you are planning to have one installed.
What solar grants still exist in 2026
In the UK, there are a lot of solar grants that homeowners like you can apply for. Grants for PV panels, PV systems, and hybrid setups with storage exist in the UK. Aside from providing aid for different packages, they also have grants that are modelled for specific groups.
For UK residents, the Warm Homes Local Grant is a scheme that aims to help low-income households get access to energy efficiency upgrades, including solar panels and better home insulation.
The ECO4 is a scheme in England that provides low-income and low EPC scoring households with monetary grants to help finance their electricity. It runs up until 2026.
There are also EU and national funding windows for solar and energy modernisation.
Many programmes emphasize hybrid PV systems, which include storage or efficiency bundles as they increase self-consumption. Not only does a solar system with storage generate energy, but it also allows for broader independence from the grid.
Who qualifies and how priority works
When checking if you are available for any solar grant, it is better to check the requirements. Some grants are designed for low-income households, while some consider your EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) score. Some schemes are designed for more efficient homes, while others aim to help households with low EPC scores and improve their efficiency.
There are also local grants from authorities that provide flexibility to homeowners in various financial situations. However, most give priority to those who are experiencing energy poverty, which will allow them to save up on costs as well as improve their energy efficiency.
Grants for PV panels, VAT relief, and export payments
In the UK, grants for PV panels are partnered with VAT relief and export payments. For qualifying systems, there is a 0% VAT relief for UK PV system installations through 2027. This means that qualified homes will not incur any VAT when installing a PV system.
There is also an export payment scheme that provides PV energy-generating households a way to earn by exporting their surplus energy. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is an export payment mechanism in the UK that lets homeowners sell to their supplier on an agreed-upon rate. However, rates can change yearly, so it is better to check with your suppliers if there are any updates.
Grants for solar battery storage UK
The grants for solar battery storage UK residents can apply for help increase their grid independence and self-consumption. The UK government encourages this to meet the country’s sustainability goals faster.
Home battery storage stores surplus solar energy, which you can use during peak grid hours. Schemes reward solar and storage systems with faster payback on their units, plus long-term savings. This is a welcome alternative as export rates can be low or change at any moment.
You can also optimize home storage solutions like EcoFlow PowerOcean with intelligent management systems. This way, you can maximize your solar yield and energy storage. For instance, EcoFlow's Home Energy Management System (HEMS) and PowerInsight 2, an energy monitor, helps you manage your stored energy and conduct better load shifting strategies.
Can I get a grant for solar panels?: How to apply, stack, and stay eligible
The short answer is yes, but only if you meet the specific requirements. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get a grant for your solar panels.
Do your research by checking the national and local scheme pages. Here you can see the necessary details and benefits of each scheme.
Check the requirements and see if you are eligible.
Combine VAT relief and local loan programmes where available. This way, you can soften the blow of the initial monetary investment needed when purchasing and installing solar panels.
Only work with reputable and accredited installers. Getting accredited installers mean compliant paperwork and better service.
Checklist for homeowners
Always check your grant eligibility when applying. Different grants have their own set of requirements, and it is better to confirm your eligibility and requirements. Here are other tips to take note of:
Review VAT relief rules
Confirm smart meter needs with your supplier and make sure that you have an approved smart meter.
Compare the SEG options available. Getting the best rate possible will help you make the most out of exporting your surplus generated energy and get the best rates possible.
Properly size your home battery to the energy demands of your home. If you wish to install one along with your PV, it is better to get the correct size. With PowerOcean’s modular battery system, you can start with one 5 kWh battery unit and add more when your energy needs increase.
Request quotes from accredited installers as they will not only help you with paperwork but also provide quality service.
What kind of product or solution are you interested in?
Maximize your home’s energy efficiency with grants in 2026
Grants for PV panels can help encourage households to increase their self-consumption and help in achieving the sustainability goals set by the UK. Request a consultation with EcoFlow today to get our experts’ opinions on PV with storage systems.
FAQ
1. Are there any grants for solar panels in the UK?
Yes, the ECO4 is a programme that aims to help increase the efficiency scores of homes in the UK. This scheme can provide qualified homeowners with the necessary funding to improve their homes' energy efficiency, which includes solar panels.
2. Do I still pay for electricity if I have solar panels in the UK?
In most cases, you will still need to pay for your electricity even if you use solar panels. Unless you are 100% independent from the grid, you will still make use of grid-provided energy every day. Having higher self-consumption can go a long way.
3. What is the downside of solar panels in the UK?
Solar panels and systems will take up a lot of space on your rooftop. Also, some areas in the UK have homes built close to each other, which can be a challenge during installation. Lastly, solar panels are very costly initially.
4. Who is eligible for solar panel grants in the UK?
Different UK schemes have varying eligibility metrics. Most grants prioritise lower-income households. Some schemes are also designed for homes that scored low efficiency scores and aim to fund renovations and improvements.
5. Is it still worth getting solar panels in the UK?
Yes, the UK has a lot of grants, export schemes, and programs to help people fund their solar panels. They also have a 0% VAT on solar installations program if you are eligible. As the UK moves to more sustainability, solar panels provide more value.
