Cut Your Energy Bills with Government-Backed Solar Schemes
With rising energy costs and increasing climate concerns, solar panels are one of the most effective ways to reduce your bills and your carbon footprint. But did you know you could get solar panels for free or at a discount through government-backed schemes?
Whether you’re a homeowner or a tenant in London, Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol, Glasgow, Cardiff, or anywhere across England, Scotland, and Wales, this guide explains every solar panel grant and funding scheme available in the UK in 2025: including eligibility, how to apply, how much you can save, and more.
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Am I Eligible for a Solar Panel Grant?
Solar panel funding is available across the UK but eligibility depends on your income, location, energy efficiency, and whether you rent or own your home.
Here’s a quick checklist:
Criteria | Details | |
Low-income household | Generally under £31,000 (ECO4) or £36,000 (Warm Homes Plan) | |
In receipt of benefits | Universal Credit, Housing Benefit, Child Tax Credit, Pension Credit, etc. | |
Poor energy efficiency | EPC rating between D and G (especially E, F, G) | |
Health conditions | Cardiovascular, respiratory, or mental health issues may qualify (e.g. Nest in Wales) | |
Permission from landlord | Tenants can apply if landlord agrees | |
Location | Different schemes apply in England, Scotland, Wales |
Even if you’re not on benefits, Solar Together and 0% VAT apply to all homeowners — and you can save 30–40% instantly.
Scheme Name | Region | Who It’s For | Funding Type | EPC Required | Status |
ECO4 & LA Flex | UK (excl. N. Ireland) | Low-income / benefit claimants | Up to 100% funding | E–G | Active until Mar 2026 |
Solar Together | England (local councils e.g. Camden, Bristol, Sheffield) | All homeowners | Group discount (30–40%) | Any | Ongoing |
Warm Homes Plan | England | Under £36k income or D–G EPC | Up to £30k | D–G | Launched April 2025 |
Nest Scheme | Wales | Low-income / health conditions | Free upgrades | E or D (health) | Active |
Home Energy Scotland | Scotland | Off-gas / rural / energy-poor homes | Loan / limited grant | D–G | Active |
Smart Export Guarantee | UK-wide | Homeowners with installed solar | Export payments | Any | Ongoing |
0% VAT on Solar Panels | UK-wide | All homeowners | 20% off instantly | Any | Until March 2027 |
Want help picking the right scheme?
Click here to get a free eligibility check from Reliant Energy Solutions, serving London, Birmingham, Manchester, Bristol, Glasgow, Cardiff, and surrounding areas.
ECO4 & LA Flex – Free Solar for Low-Income Households
What is ECO4?
ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation, Phase 4) is the UK’s flagship home energy efficiency programme, backed by the government and funded by major energy companies like British Gas, Octopus, and E.ON.
Under ECO4, eligible homes can receive:
- Free solar panel installation
- New heating systems (boilers, heat pumps)
- Loft/wall insulation
- Energy-efficient windows & doors
- EPC upgrades to C rating or better
Who Qualifies?
You may qualify for 100% FREE solar panels through ECO4 if:
- Your total household income is under £31,000
- You receive any of the following means-tested benefits:
- Universal Credit
- Housing Benefit
- Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Income Support
- ESA / JSA (income-based)
- Your home has an EPC rating of E, F, or G
- You’re a homeowner or tenant with landlord permission
What is LA Flex?
LA Flex is the flexible version of ECO4 where local councils can approve funding for people who don’t receive benefits but are still vulnerable — such as:
- Low-income households
- Elderly residents
- People with medical conditions
- Off-gas homes
Tip: Reliant Energy Solutions works directly with councils under LA Flex to fast-track applications.
What’s Covered?
Installation Type | Cost to You | Covered by ECO4? |
Solar PV (panels) | £0 | Yes |
Inverter & Battery | £0–£500 | Sometimes |
Loft / Wall Insulation | £0 | Yes |
Boiler Upgrade | £0 | Yes |
EPC Certification | £0 | Yes |
Required Documents:
- Proof of benefits (DWP letter)
- Proof of ID and address
- Energy bill or council tax
- EPC rating (or permission for us to assess it)
- Landlord permission if renting
How to Apply:
- Contact Reliant Energy Solutions
- We arrange a free home assessment & EPC check
- We help gather documents & submit to your local authority
- Our MCS-certified partners install the system
- You start saving up to £1,000/year
Want to check if you’re eligible for ECO4 or LA Flex funding?
Start with our free online assessment → [START NOW]
FAQS About Solar Panel Grants
Can I get a solar panel grant if I rent my home?
Some schemes like ECO4 require landlord consent. Local schemes vary. Solar Together usually requires owner-occupiers. Contact Reliant Energy Solutions for specific advice.
How long does it take to get approval for grants?
Typically 2 to 6 weeks depending on the scheme and documentation. ECO4 installers handle most paperwork.
Are there any grants for battery storage with solar panels?
Yes, ECO4 sometimes covers battery storage. Some councils may offer additional support.
Will I get paid for the electricity my solar panels generate?
The Feed-in Tariff (FiT) scheme closed in 2019, but existing participants still get payments. New solar users can save on bills but do not receive FiT payments.
Can I combine different grants or schemes?
Generally, you cannot combine major government grants but can benefit from local schemes alongside ECO4. Check with your installer.
Does Reliant Energy Solutions help with grant applications?
Absolutely! We provide free eligibility checks and assist with the entire application process.
Why Choose Reliant Energy Solutions?
- Trusted, accredited installers
- Expert knowledge of all grant schemes
- Free eligibility assessment and quotes
- Professional, hassle-free installations
Contact Us Today for a Free Solar Panel Grant Assessment!