Solar panels: 0% VAT and low-rate Warm Homes loans
Make your own electricity, cut your bills and get paid for what you export. Solar panels and batteries have 0% VAT until 31 March 2027, and the government-backed Warm Homes loans can spread the cost at a very low rate. We introduce you to one trusted, MCS-certified solar installer for a free survey and a clear quote.
On solar panels and batteries installed in homes, until 31 March 2027.
Up to £15,000 for solar and £15,000 for a battery, from approved lenders, sometimes at 0%.
The Smart Export Guarantee pays you for the electricity you send to the grid.
Loans depend on the lender's checks and are first come, first served. Figures and dates are set by the government and can change.
Are there solar panel grants?
For most homes there's no grant for solar, but the support is the best it's been:
- 0% VAT on solar panels and batteries until 31 March 2027.
- Warm Homes loans (open since October 2026): low-rate, government-backed loans through approved lenders, for homeowners and landlords.
- Lower-income households may get solar fully funded through their council's Warm Homes: Local Grant. See ECO4 and Warm Homes grants.
- Smart Export Guarantee: your energy supplier pays for the power you export.
Is solar right for my home?
It depends on your roof (direction, shading, condition), how much electricity you use, and whether you're home in the day or add a battery. A survey gives you real numbers rather than guesses.
- South, east and west-facing roofs all work; south is best.
- Most homes don't need planning permission (permitted development), unless the house is listed or in a conservation area.
- Solar pairs very well with an air source heat pump: your own electricity runs your heating.
- Have a recent electricity bill handy: it helps size the system.
We don't sell or install systems and we don't arrange finance. Savings depend on your home, usage and energy prices.
Solar panel questions
Is there a grant for solar panels in 2026?
Not for most homes. Instead there's 0% VAT until 31 March 2027 and low-rate Warm Homes loans up to £15,000 for solar (and £15,000 for a battery). Lower-income households may get solar free through their council's Warm Homes: Local Grant.
What is the Warm Homes loan?
A government-backed loan from approved lenders to spread the cost of solar panels, batteries and heat pumps, at a very low rate and sometimes 0%. It opened in October 2026; the lender decides after their usual checks.
How much can solar panels save?
It depends on your roof, your usage and energy prices. Using more of your own power (for example with a battery, or while you're home) saves the most, and you're paid for what you export. The installer works out an estimate for your home.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
Usually not: most home installations are permitted development. Listed buildings, flats and homes in conservation areas may need permission, and the installer will check.
Do solar panels work in the UK winter?
Yes, they work in daylight, not just sunshine, though they produce much less in winter than in summer. Systems are sized on the whole year.
Should I add a battery?
A battery stores daytime solar (or cheap night-rate electricity) for the evening, so you use more of what you make. It has 0% VAT too. See battery storage.
See what's possible for your home.
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