What grants are there for Solar? Updated 2024
Naked Solar are always working hard to bring the cost of solar panel installations down. Even so, for many the price is still out of reach. So we searched the internet for you to see what grants and financial incentives are available in the UK to support the purchase of solar PV systems. Here are a few:
1. Feed in Tariff (FiT): The FiT scheme closed to new applications in 2019 and did a great job of kickstarting the industry. You can read more here: Feed-in tariff
2. Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): Introduced in 2020, the SEG requires energy suppliers with over 150,000 customers to offer a tariff for electricity exported to the grid from small-scale renewable installations, including solar PV. The rates are set by the suppliers, so it’s worth shopping around to find the best deal. Your SEG provider doesn’t necessarily need to be the same company who provide your electricity however some provide better rates to existing customers.
3. Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI): While not specifically for solar PV, the RHI provides financial support for renewable heating systems, such as solar thermal panels. If you have a solar thermal system installed alongside your solar PV, you may be eligible for RHI payments. https://www.gov.uk/domestic-renewable-heat-incentive
4. Local Authority Grants: Some local councils offer grants or incentives for renewable energy installations, including solar PV. These programs vary by location, so it’s worth contacting your local council to see if any grants are available in your area.
5. Green Deal: The Green Deal helps you make energy-saving improvements to your home and to find the best way to pay for them. The improvements that could save you the most energy depend on your home, but typical examples include: insulation, such as solid wall, cavity wall or loft insulation, Heating, draught-proofing, double glazing, renewable energy generation, such as solar panels or heat pumps. You Can use the Green Deal for a range of different energy saving measures but only if your Green Deal Assessment recommends them. https://www.gov.uk/green-deal-energy-saving-measures
6. ECO4 Scheme: You might be able to get help for energy-saving improvements to your home if you either claim certain benefits or live in social housing. You may get help with the cost of:
- insulation work, for example to your loft or cavity walls
- replacing or repairing your boiler – or other upgrades to your heating
Contact your local council to find out if they’re taking part in the Energy Company Obligation (ECO) scheme, or contact an energy supplier directly.
You can find contact details of suppliers who are taking part in the scheme on the Ofgem website.
https://www.gov.uk/energy-company-obligation
It’s important to note that the availability and terms of these grants and incentives can change over time, so it’s advisable to check with the relevant authorities or consult a renewable energy specialist for the most up-to-date information. Please read the small print and don’t be pressured into signing up to a scheme which may be masquerading as a high interest loan.
