One of the most common questions we get from Cheshire homeowners is: "Are there any grants for solar panels?" The honest answer is that the landscape has changed significantly since the Feed-in Tariff ended in 2019. But there are still meaningful financial incentives available — and understanding them can make a real difference to your decision.
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
The Smart Export Guarantee is the main ongoing financial incentive for solar panel owners in Cheshire. Under the SEG, energy suppliers must pay you for every unit of electricity you export to the grid. Rates vary by supplier — currently ranging from around 4p to 24p per kWh — so it's worth shopping around.
For a typical 4kWp system in Cheshire exporting around 1,500 kWh per year, SEG payments could be worth £60–£360 annually depending on your tariff. We register all our installations for SEG as part of the handover process.
ECO4 Scheme: Free Solar for Eligible Households
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) scheme provides free or heavily subsidised energy efficiency measures — including solar panels — to eligible low-income households in Cheshire. To qualify, you typically need to:
- Receive certain means-tested benefits (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc.)
- Live in a property with an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G
- Be a homeowner or have landlord permission
ECO4 is administered through energy suppliers. Contact your energy supplier directly to check eligibility, or speak to Cheshire East or Cheshire West and Chester Council's energy efficiency teams.
0% VAT on Solar Panels
Since April 2022, solar panel installations for residential properties in the UK have been zero-rated for VAT. This means you pay no VAT on the supply and installation of solar panels, inverters, and battery storage systems. This effectively represents a 20% saving compared to pre-2022 prices — a significant benefit for Cheshire homeowners.
Local Authority Funding in Cheshire
Both Cheshire East and Cheshire West and Chester Councils have run various energy efficiency funding schemes in recent years. These have included interest-free loans for solar installations and grants for low-income households. Availability changes regularly — we recommend checking directly with your local council for the latest schemes.
The Warm Homes Plan
The UK Government's Warm Homes Plan, announced in 2025, is expected to provide significant new funding for solar panels and heat pumps from 2026 onwards. The scheme aims to upgrade 5 million homes by 2030. Details are still being finalised, but Cheshire homeowners should watch this space — it could represent the most significant solar funding opportunity since the original Feed-in Tariff.
Making the Most of Available Incentives
Even without a direct grant, the combination of 0% VAT, Smart Export Guarantee payments, and rising energy prices makes solar a compelling investment for most Cheshire homeowners. Our team covers the whole region — from solar panels in Wilmslow to solar installation in Congleton — and can advise on the best funding options for your specific situation.
Get a Free Solar Survey & Funding Advice in Cheshire
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