With energy bills rising, families across Britain are struggling to keep their homes warm while managing ever-rising costs.
Now, the government’s new Warm Homes Plan could offer a lifeline, giving eligible low-income households up to £12,000 worth of solar panels and batteries completely free of charge.
For those who don’t qualify for fully funded upgrades, the scheme also provides low- and zero-interest loans, making it easier for more families to invest in solar panels, cut their energy bills and switch to cleaner, more efficient energy sources.
Who qualifies for free solar panels and upgrades?
The Warm Homes Plan includes a targeted fund – backed by about £5 billion – to provide fully funded packages of upgrades for low-income and fuel-poor households.
Under this strand, eligible families could receive solar panels and solar batteries installed at no charge, with typical combined solar panel costs currently estimated at around £9,000–£12,000.
Eligibility is generally based on income, benefits and property criteria – for example, household income thresholds (often circa £36,000 or less) and receipt of means-tested benefits like Universal Credit.
In many local areas, properties must also meet minimum energy performance standards to qualify (e.g., certain EPC ratings).
How homeowners can apply
The government is rolling out Local Grant schemes through local authorities, meaning homeowners typically apply through their council’s online portal or via a postcode eligibility tool.
Applicants generally enter basic details such as address, household income and any benefits received; if eligible, local officials arrange a home energy survey free of charge to decide what upgrades are suitable.
Once approved, certified installers carry out the work at no upfront cost.
What the plan offers beyond solar panels
For households that don’t qualify for fully funded upgrades, the plan still offers government-backed low- and zero-interest loans to help pay for solar panels, battery storage and heat pumps – removing much of the cost barrier.
Homeowners can also still use the Boiler Upgrade Scheme offering £7,500 off the price of a heat pump, aimed at helping more families switch to low-carbon heating.
The government has also confirmed that from early 2026, all new homes in England will be built with solar panels as standard under the Future Homes Standard.
‘The start of a nationwide rooftop revolution’
Industry experts have welcomed the government’s support for solar panels and batteries while noting practical considerations for homeowners.
Gemma Grimes, Director of Policy and Delivery at Solar Energy UK, said: “Solar panels and batteries could help households reduce energy bills, and the grants and loans will make rooftop solar accessible to more people.”
Simon McWhirter, CEO of the UK Green Building Council, said: “This initiative helps households move away from volatile fossil fuels while future-proofing homes against rising bills and a warming climate. It represents the start of a nationwide rooftop revolution.”
Ultimately, families across the country can benefit from free or affordable solar panels, batteries and home improvements, helping them manage rising energy bills and move toward cleaner energy.
Gemma Grimes is a renewable energy professional and Director of Policy and Delivery at Solar Energy UK, focusing on increasing access to solar panels, batteries, and clean energy solutions for households across the UK.
Simon McWhirter has extensive experience in sustainability, clean energy, and policy advocacy for greener homes and buildings.
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