Apply for Your Government Solar Panel Scheme
ECO4, the route to fully funded installation, closed to new applications on 31 March 2026. This page sets out how the application process works, what to have ready, and how to check the support that remains.
Check Your Eligibility
Answer a few quick questions to see which solar power grants and schemes you might be eligible for in the UK.
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Your answers have been recorded. Your enquiry will be passed to an installer covering your area, who will contact you to discuss your options.
Explore Available GrantsHow to Apply for the Government Solar Panel Scheme
Applying for the government solar panel scheme is a straightforward process once you know the steps. This page sets out what happens at each stage, from the eligibility check to installation, and who does what.
The first step is to check your eligibility through the simple form on this page. It asks about your property type, location, household income, and whether you receive any qualifying benefits, which is what determines the government schemes you might be eligible for.
Your enquiry is then passed to an installer covering your area, who arranges a property assessment. This technical survey establishes your energy usage, roof suitability, and the appropriate solar panel system for your home. Ask whether the survey is free and whether it carries any obligation.
Based on the assessment, the installer provides a written proposal outlining the recommended system, potential energy savings, and the government funding options available to you, including any support still available now that ECO4 has closed to new applications (31 March 2026).
If you decide to proceed, the installer or scheme administrator submits the funding application, completing the paperwork and liaising with the relevant scheme bodies and energy companies. This site does not process applications itself.
Once your funding is approved, the installer schedules the installation, typically completed within 1-2 days. Before work starts, check the installing company on the MCS register: MCS certification is required for Smart Export Guarantee payments and by most funded schemes.
After installation, ask the installer for the handover pack, the MCS certificate and the warranty documents, and register for the Smart Export Guarantee so that you are paid for the electricity you export.
Required Documentation
To streamline your application, please have the following documents ready:
- Proof of identity (passport, driving license)
- Proof of address (utility bill, council tax statement)
- Proof of homeownership (title deed, mortgage statement)
- Recent energy bills (last 3 months)
- Proof of benefits (if applicable)
- Household income information
Eligibility Criteria
ECO4 closed to new applications on 31 March 2026; its criteria are kept here for reference:
- You are a homeowner (not renting or in social housing)
- Your property has a suitable roof (sufficient space, correct orientation)
- Your household income falls within specified thresholds
- You receive qualifying benefits (for certain schemes)
- Your property has an EPC rating of D or below (for ECO4 scheme)
What Happens Next?
- Submit your application using our form
- Receive an initial eligibility assessment from the installer
- Schedule a property assessment with the installer
- Review your personalized solar proposal
- The installer submits your grant application
- Installation scheduled upon approval
- System commissioned and aftercare provided
How The Scheme Works
Getting solar panels through the government scheme is a straightforward process. Here is what to expect at each stage.
Check Eligibility
Complete our simple eligibility checker to see if your property qualifies for government solar panel schemes.
Property Assessment
A surveyor from the installer assesses your roof, energy use and property before any quote or application is made. Ask whether the survey is free and whether it carries any obligation.
Grant Application
The installer or scheme administrator submits the funding application. This site passes your enquiry on; it does not process applications itself.
Installation
Domestic installations typically take 1-2 days. Check the installing company on the MCS register before work starts: MCS certification is required for Smart Export Guarantee payments.
How This Site Fits In
GovernmentSolarPanelScheme.co.uk is an independent guide, not an installer. Here is what it does and does not do:
- Independent Guide
The site explains the government solar schemes, grants, eligibility criteria and application processes in plain English.
- Free Eligibility Check
The checker on this page is free to use and carries no obligation.
- Enquiries Passed to Installers
Your enquiry is passed to an installer covering your area; the site may receive an introduction fee from that installer.
- No Installations, No Accreditation
The site does not install solar panels, employ engineers or hold MCS, TrustMark or RECC accreditation. Check the installing company on those registers before you sign.
- Your Contract Is With The Installer
Surveys, quotes, warranties and aftercare come from the installer, so get them in writing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common questions about the government solar panel scheme and the installation process.
What is the government solar panel scheme?
The government solar panel scheme refers to various initiatives and grants offered by the UK government to encourage homeowners to install solar panels. These include the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) and reduced VAT rates on energy-saving products; the ECO4 scheme, which funded free installations, closed to new applications on 31 March 2026.
Am I eligible for a free solar panel installation?
Eligibility for free or heavily subsidized solar panels typically depends on factors like your property type, household income, energy efficiency rating, and whether you receive certain benefits. Homeowners with low household income or those receiving benefits like Pension Credit, Universal Credit, or Child Tax Credit could qualify for free installation through the ECO4 scheme until it closed to new applications on 31 March 2026; check gov.uk for current support.
How much can I save with solar panels?
The average UK household can save £300-£800 per year on electricity bills with solar panels. Savings depend on factors like your energy usage, location, solar panel system size, and the direction your roof faces. Additionally, you may earn money from selling excess electricity back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee.
How long does the installation process take?
Most residential solar panel installations take 1-2 days to complete, depending on the system size and roof complexity. The entire process from application to installation typically takes 2-6 weeks, including survey, design approval, and scheduling.
Do solar panels work in the UK climate?
Yes, solar panels work effectively in the UK climate. They don't need direct sunlight to generate electricity, just daylight. Although they produce more electricity on sunny days, modern solar panels are efficient enough to generate significant power even on cloudy days. The UK receives enough daylight throughout the year to make solar panels a worthwhile investment.
How do I maintain solar panels?
Solar panels require minimal maintenance. They're designed to be self-cleaning with rainfall, though occasional cleaning (1-2 times a year) may improve efficiency. Most reputable installers provide a maintenance package including system monitoring, regular checks, and cleaning services. Solar panels typically come with a 25-year performance warranty.
Still have questions about the government solar panel scheme?
Check Your Eligibility TodayReady to Start Your Solar Journey?
Check your eligibility for the support that remains and take the first step toward energy independence, reduced bills, and a smaller carbon footprint.
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