Latest Update on Solar Panel Grants and Funding for Homeowners

Considering the UK's commitment to reaching net zero by 2050, there is now a need for a radical transformation in the way we generate and use energy. As a result, solar panels have gained popularity among homeowners in recent years as they strive to reduce their carbon footprint and save on energy costs. However, the cost of solar panel installations can be a barrier to many homeowners, so there are now more grants and fundings available to homeowners more than ever, to ensure solar panels are as accessible as possible to homeowners. This article by Jewel Renewables will explore the latest information on solar panel grants and funding options available to homeowners in England so that our valuable customers and homeowners of Surrey can make an informed decision.

Home Upgrade Grant (HUG)

Home Upgrade Grant (HUG) is a government initiative which is aimed to deliver up to £700 million in funding in 2023 - 2025. It helps local authorities with funding to improve homes in England with energy efficient upgrades or low carbon heating. While the Home Upgrade Grant is currently closed, in April 2025, homeowners can apply to Warm Homes: Local Grant as a replacement. You can also check your eligibility here before applying.

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a government backed initiative which was launched on the 1st of January 2020. If you have excess solar energy stored, SEG allows you to export this to National Grid. As a result, Energy suppliers offer tariffs that pay for each unit of electricity fed into the National Grid by homeowners. While SEG is not a grant or funding, it can be an incentive for homeowners looking to make a long term investment in solar panels and renewable energy. You can also find out more about SEG tariffs & selling back to National Grid on our guides.

Local Authority Grants

Some local councils in England offer grants and incentives for the installation of solar panels to help generate more renewable energy across the country. However, as this is dependent on each local council and their availability of programs, it is adviable to check with your local authority. For Surrey homeowners, Action Surrey can be a good opportunity to help you identify options for making your home more energy efficient and comfortable, potentially saving you money on your energy bills and even reducing your home's reliance on fossil fuels.

Bank Incentives

Some banks in England such as Lloyds Bank, Halifax or Santander provide incentives to customers who are looking to make energy efficient home improvements just like solar panel installations. As the eligibility criteria and availability for these incentives can vary based on banks' policies, our recommendation is to consult the relevant authorities to determine the best options for your home.

Green Homes Grant Scheme

Green Homes Grant is a scheme that helps homeowners and landlords cover up to two thirds of the cost opf upgrading the energy efficiency of their home. For most people, this contribution was up to £5,000 and for low income households, up to a maximum of £10,000. While this scheme is not available for solar panel installations, it is a great opportunity if you are looking to take the below energy saving measures.

• Solid wall, under-floor, cavity wall or roof insulation

• Air or ground source heat pump

• Solar thermal

• Biomass boilers

• Double and triple glazing or secondary glazing (when replacing single glazing)

• Upgrading to energy efficient doors

• Hot water tank, appliance tank thermostats or heating controls

Boiler Upgrade Scheme

Just like Green Homes Grant Scheme, Boiler Upgrade scheme is also not available for solar panel installations. However, as it is a great opportunity for those investing low carbon heating systems, we will also cover this scheme in this article in hopes of promoting sustainability.

The Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS) is a heating system grant that allows people in England and Wales to get up to £7,500 off a low carbon heating system. In most cases, this is applicable on heat pumps, but the grant can also cover biomass boilers. Due to its popularity, the UK government has also announced that an extra £25 million funding will go to this Boiler Upgrade Scheme for the 2025/26 season.

Take The Right Step Towards a Sustainable Future

Solar panel grants and funding options are available to homeowners, making solar energy more accessible and affordable. By taking advantage of these opportunities, homeowners can reduce the upfront cost of installation and enjoy the long-term benefits of solar energy. Here at Jewel Renewables, we are committed to helping homeowners make informed decisions about their solar panel projects and providing them with high-quality products that meet their needs. Contact us today to learn more about our solar panels and the funding options available to you. You can also use our free online quoting engine to receive a personalised price on solar panels, batteries or electric car chargers if this article has inspired you to take the right step towards a sustainable future.