'Free solar panels' is one of the most searched phrases in home energy right now. Under the Warm Homes Plan, eligible households can have solar panels installed at no cost — but 'free' needs unpacking: free for some, heavily subsidised for everyone.
Read our hub guide on the Warm Homes Plan for the full scheme overview, or see our solar panel installation service.
Can you get free solar panels through the Warm Homes Plan?
Yes — but only through the Warm Homes Local Grant (WH:LG), and only if your household meets both criteria:
- EPC rating of D, E, F or G
- Gross household income at or below £36,000
If you meet both, solar PV is one of the measures your property can receive under the WH:LG. The grant covers the full cost — panels, inverter, installation, wiring and commissioning.
Lancashire households
What does a funded solar system include?
- DMEGC 465W TOPCon solar panels — 21.4% cell efficiency
- Fox ESS hybrid inverter — 3.7kW, 10-year manufacturer warranty
- Levelise Hub smart battery management system
- Full installation, commissioning and MCS certification
The number of panels depends on your roof area, orientation and electricity demand — typically 6, 8 or 12 panels.
What if I don't qualify? Private solar at 0% VAT
Not eligible for the WH:LG? Solar is still more affordable than most people think. Since April 2022, all residential solar PV installations carry 0% VAT — a saving of up to £700 on a typical system. The 0% VAT rate is permanent and not means-tested.
| Package | System size | Battery | Price (0% VAT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starter | 6 panels / 2.79kWp | 5.76kWh | £5,999 |
| Popular | 8 panels / 3.72kWp | 5.76kWh | £6,999 |
| Premium | 12 panels / 5.58kWp | 11kWh | £9,000 |
All prices include installation, inverter, battery storage and MCS certification.
Check if you qualify for funded solar
Free eligibility check — no obligation.
How much can solar panels save on energy bills?
- A 6-panel system (2.79kWp) generates around 2,400 kWh per year in Lancashire
- At 24p/kWh that's approximately £576 per year in generation savings
- Battery storage captures more of what you generate — reducing grid imports further
- Surplus exported to the grid earns under the Smart Export Guarantee
Typical payback on private solar with battery in the North West is 8–12 years, with 20–25 years of near-zero-cost operation after that.
Can you get battery storage for free under the Warm Homes Plan?
Yes. Battery storage is a listed measure under the WH:LG. If you qualify and your property is assessed as suitable, battery storage can be included in the same funded package as solar panels.
What technology does Alliant install?
DMEGC 465W TOPCon panels from a Tier 1 manufacturer — higher efficiency than standard PERC at 21.4%, with a 25-year performance warranty. Fox ESS hybrid inverter with a 10-year warranty connects panels, battery and grid in one unit. Levelise Hub provides smart energy management that learns your consumption patterns and optimises charging.
How to get funded solar in Lancashire
If you qualify for the WH:LG
Contact Alliant Energy and we'll handle the referral to Cosy Homes in Lancashire, or apply directly at chil.uk.com. A free survey is arranged within five working days. Installation typically 2–3 weeks after grant confirmation.
If you're purchasing privately
Request a quote at alliantenergy.co.uk or call 0800 088 4286. Installation typically within 2–4 weeks of confirmation.
Frequently asked questions
Are free solar panels available in 2026?
Yes, for households that qualify for the Warm Homes Local Grant — EPC D–G and gross household income at or below £36,000. In Lancashire, the grant is delivered by Cosy Homes in Lancashire and administered through MCS-certified installers like Alliant Energy.
What EPC rating do I need for free solar panels?
You need an EPC rating of D, E, F or G to qualify for the Warm Homes Local Grant. Properties rated C or above don't qualify for the grant but can still have solar installed at 0% VAT.
How many solar panels can I get for free?
The number depends on your roof area, orientation and electricity demand. A typical funded installation includes 6–12 panels.
Can I get a battery included in the free solar installation?
Yes. Battery storage is a listed measure under the WH:LG. If your survey recommends it, battery storage can be included in the same funded package at no cost.
What if I earn more than £36,000?
You can still have solar installed privately at 0% VAT. Alliant's packages start at £5,999 and include battery storage as standard.
Related Warm Homes Plan guides
