Government Solar Panel Scheme Free Installation
ECO4, the government scheme that funded completely free solar panel installation for eligible households, closed to new applications on 31 March 2026. The eligibility rules are kept below for reference; check gov.uk for current support.
Free Solar Panels Through the ECO4 Scheme (Closed 31 March 2026)
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme was a government initiative designed to reduce carbon emissions and tackle fuel poverty across the UK. It required large energy suppliers to fund energy efficiency improvements for eligible households, including free solar panel installations, and it closed to new applications on 31 March 2026.
This fully funded programme targeted homeowners who might otherwise be unable to afford the upfront costs of renewable energy. By providing 100% free solar panel installations to qualifying households, the scheme helped reduce energy bills, increase property values, and lower carbon emissions.
The ECO4 scheme was particularly focused on supporting low-income households, those receiving certain benefits, and properties with poor energy efficiency ratings. This targeted approach was designed so that those most vulnerable to fuel poverty could access clean, renewable energy at no cost.
Under this scheme, eligible homeowners received a complete solar PV system, including panels, inverter, mounting equipment, and professional installation, without any upfront or hidden costs. The entire process was managed by the installer on the homeowner's behalf, from initial assessment to final installation.
Once installed, a solar panel system can save you hundreds of pounds annually on electricity bills while significantly reducing your carbon footprint. You'll also have the opportunity to earn additional income by selling excess electricity back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
ECO4 is closed to new applications, so the eligibility checker can no longer place you on it. It still asks the questions that decide which of the remaining routes fits your circumstances; check gov.uk and this site's article on what replaced the free solar schemes for current support.
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 GrantsECO4 Eligibility Criteria
The government's ECO4 scheme provided free solar panels to specific groups of homeowners until it closed to new applications on 31 March 2026. The criteria are kept here for reference:
Property Requirements
- Privately owned (homeowner, not renting)
- EPC rating of D, E, F or G
- Suitable roof space and orientation
- Not previously received ECO funding for solar
Benefit Recipients
You may qualify if you receive any of the following:
- Universal Credit
- Pension Credit
- Child Tax Credit
- Working Tax Credit
- Income Support
- Income-based JSA or ESA
- Housing Benefit
Additional Qualifying Criteria
You may also qualify if you meet any of these criteria:
- Low household income (under £31,000 per year)
- Household with elderly resident (60+ years)
- Household with child under 5 years
- Household member with long-term health condition or disability
- Property located in specific postcodes (check via the eligibility form)
Not sure if you qualify? The eligibility checker takes a couple of minutes.
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What the Free Solar Panel Scheme Included
The government's free solar panel scheme through ECO4 provided eligible homeowners with a complete solar energy system at no cost. The package below is what a fully funded ECO4 installation included, kept here for reference.
High-Quality Solar Panels
Tier 1 solar panels from leading manufacturers with 25-year performance warranties. Systems typically range from 3kW to 6kW depending on your roof size and energy requirements.
Solar Inverter
A high-efficiency inverter to convert the DC electricity produced by your solar panels into usable AC electricity for your home, with a 10-year manufacturer warranty.
Professional Installation
Installation by an MCS-certified installer (which the funding required), including all mounting hardware, wiring, and connection to your home's electrical system, certified and compliant with the regulations.
Energy Monitoring System
Smart monitoring technology that allows you to track your system's performance, energy production, and savings through a simple mobile app or web interface.
Aftercare & Warranty
Comprehensive warranty coverage, system registration, and aftercare support to ensure your system performs optimally for decades. Includes assistance with SEG registration to earn money from your excess electricity.
Check What Support Remains
ECO4 closed to new applications on 31 March 2026. Use the eligibility checker to see which of the remaining routes fits your circumstances, and check gov.uk for current schemes.
Check Your Eligibility