Funding for householders and landlords
Funding for solar panels changes regularly and eligibility depends on your circumstances.
Before applying, check the latest eligibility criteria as funding schemes are subject to change.
If you are not eligible for any of the schemes detailed below, you may find comparision websites such as Compare the Market and Which useful - they can inform you of available options to help you review, compare, and choose a suitable provider for your solar panel needs.
Current funding schemes include:
Energy Company Obligation (ECO4)
is a government mandated obligation for large and medium sized energy suppliers to reduce carbon emissions and work towards being 100% carbon neutral.
- Households in receipt of means tested benefits with a EPC Band rating lower than C.
- Private landlords are eligible for mains gas FTCH (First time Central Heating) and Renewable Technologies, but not gas boiler upgrades. This aspect of the scheme ensures that rental properties can also benefit from improved energy efficiency measures
- All ECO4 measures that are carried out must be conducted by an approved Trustmark installer and hold all the relevant qualifications. This requirement ensures that all work is performed to the highest standards, providing homeowners with confidence in the quality and safety of the improvements
- Eligible improvements include insulation (cavity walls, lofts, solid walls) and other energy saving measures e.g., solar panels.
- Landlords provide written consent, but the work is completed at no cost, helping properties meet current EPC requirements and prepare for the proposed EPC C minimum by 2028
- Scheme ends 31 December 2026
Visit the Energy Company Obligation website
Warm Homes Local Grant
The Warm Homes: Local Grant is the latest phase of the Staffordshire Warmer Homes programme and is now open for applications. Led by Staffordshire County Council in partnership with district and borough councils, Community Home Solutions and other local partners, the scheme helps eligible low-income and vulnerable households improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
Eligible residents may receive fully funded energy-saving improvements such as loft and wall insulation, air source heat pumps, hybrid gas heating systems and solar panels. These measures are designed to make homes warmer, healthier and cheaper to heat, while reducing carbon emissions.
Funding is available up to an average project value of £15,000 for energy performance improvements and £15,000 for low-carbon heating measures, with the overall project required to meet these funding limits by completion.
Residents may qualify if they:
- Have a household income of £36,000 or less.
- Receive means-tested benefits (e.g. Universal Credit, Pension Credit, Income Support).
- Have a health condition worsened by living in a cold home.
- Are in problem debt or financial hardship.
- Private landlords are eligible for mains gas FTCH (First time Central Heating) and Renewable Technologies, but not gas boiler upgrades. This aspect of the scheme ensures that rental properties can also benefit from improved energy efficiency measures.
- Applicants must live in Staffordshire and own or privately rent a home that is inefficient, hard to heat or have a qualifying health condition(s).
- Use the eligibility checker to find out if you can apply for help.
If you think you may be eligible, visit www.staffordshire.gov.uk/warmerhomes to apply online, or or call 0115 718 1822 for help completing an application. .