Solar Panels & Boiler Grants — Frequently Asked Questions

Can I really get solar panels for free?

Through the Warm Homes: Local Grant, some qualifying households can get solar panels installed at no cost. This is typically available to low-income households (income below ~£36,000) with a low EPC rating (D, E, F, or G). Even if you don’t qualify for a full grant, you may be eligible for a heavily subsidised installation. Check your eligibility →

How much can I save with solar panels?

A typical 4kW solar panel system can save you £400-£800 per year on electricity bills, plus £80-£200 in SEG export payments. Over 25 years, total savings can exceed £15,000. The exact amount depends on your roof orientation, system size, and energy usage patterns.

Has ECO4 ended? What replaces it?

Yes — ECO4 closed to new applicants on 31 March 2026. The government’s new flagship scheme for low-income households is the Warm Homes: Local Grant, which can fund energy efficiency improvements including solar panels, boiler replacement, and insulation. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme also remains open until 2028. A successor scheme, ECO5, is expected later in 2026. See our full guide: ECO4 has ended — what replaces it.

What is the Warm Homes: Local Grant?

The Warm Homes: Local Grant is the government’s new energy efficiency scheme for low-income and vulnerable households. It provides up to £15,000 in funded improvements — including insulation, boiler replacement, heat pumps, and in some cases solar PV. You may qualify if your household income is below ~£36,000 and your home has an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G.

What is the Boiler Upgrade Scheme?

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) provides a government grant of £7,500 towards replacing an old fossil-fuel boiler with an air source heat pump, ground source heat pump, or biomass boiler (£5,000 for biomass). It’s open to homeowners in England and Wales with a property EPC, and runs until 2028.

Do I need to own my home to qualify for grants?

For most grants, yes — you need to be the homeowner. However, private tenants may also qualify with their landlord’s permission. Social housing tenants should contact their housing association, as they often have their own energy efficiency programmes.

How long does a solar panel installation take?

A typical residential solar panel installation takes 1-2 days. The panels are fitted to your roof, the inverter is installed (usually in the loft or garage), and the system is connected to your electrical supply. Most installations cause minimal disruption.

What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?

The SEG is a government scheme that pays you for excess solar electricity you export to the grid. If your solar panels generate more electricity than you use, the surplus is sent to the grid and your supplier pays you for it — typically 1p to 15p per kWh. You need an MCS-certified installation and a smart meter to qualify.

How long do solar panels last?

Quality solar panels come with a 25-year performance warranty and typically last 30+ years. Inverters usually need replacing every 10-15 years. Battery storage systems typically last 10-15 years with a warranty of 5-10 years.

Do solar panels work in winter or on cloudy days?

Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not just direct sunlight. While output is reduced in winter and on cloudy days (typically 10-25% of summer output), panels still generate meaningful amounts of electricity year-round. The UK has sufficient daylight for solar to be a worthwhile investment.

What size boiler do I need?

The right boiler size depends on your home:

An engineer surveying your home will recommend the exact size based on your heating needs, number of radiators, and number of bathrooms.

How long does a new boiler last?

A modern A-rated boiler typically lasts 10-15 years. With annual servicing and a good quality system (Worcester Bosch, Vaillant, Ideal), many boilers last 15+ years. Grant-funded boiler installations come with a 7-10 year manufacturer’s warranty.

What is a combi boiler?

A combi (combination) boiler provides both central heating and hot water on demand, without needing a separate hot water cylinder or cold water tank. Combi boilers are the most popular type in the UK because they’re compact, efficient, and provide unlimited hot water.

Will I need planning permission for solar panels?

In most cases, no. Solar panels fall under permitted development rights in the UK, meaning you can install them without planning permission. Exceptions include listed buildings, properties in conservation areas, or if panels protrude significantly from the roof.

What if my roof isn’t south-facing?

South-facing roofs generate the most electricity, but east/west-facing roofs still perform well — generating about 80% of a south-facing roof’s output. North-facing roofs are generally not recommended for solar panels. Our advisors can assess your roof during a free survey.

How do I know if I qualify for a grant?

You may qualify for the Warm Homes: Local Grant if you:

• Have a household income below approximately £36,000
• Have a home with a low EPC rating (D, E, F, or G)
• Have an old, inefficient boiler
• Are vulnerable to cold

You may qualify for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme if you:

• Own your home in England or Wales
• Currently heat with fossil fuel (gas, oil, LPG, coal)
• Have a valid EPC

Use our free 60-second assessment → to find out instantly.

Is there any obligation when I get a quote?

No. All quotes provided through our service are completely free and with no obligation. You can take the information and make your own decision in your own time. There’s no pressure and no commitment required.

How quickly can a boiler be installed?

If you qualify for a boiler grant and your application is approved, installation typically takes place within 1-2 weeks. Emergency situations (no heating or hot water) can sometimes be fast-tracked.

Still have questions? Get your free quotes → and an advisor will answer any questions you have on a free, no-obligation call.