How Do I Apply For a Solar Panel Grant?

In years gone by, homeowners could apply for a solar panel grant prior to installation.

You would get a quote from an installer, show this to the relevant authority, and await a cheque in the post. This helped many people justify the initial outlay - solar panels aren't cheap after all.

In 2010 though, these Low Carbon Buildings Programme grants were effectively stopped - and replaced by Feed in Tariffs. That means you'll now need to have your solar panels installed before you can apply to the scheme.

Here's How It Works

The first, crucial step is to ensure you use an installer who is MCS certified. MCS stands for Microgeneration Certification Scheme, and in order for you to qualify for the Feed in Tariffs your installer must be accredited.

You'll find a list of MCS registered installers here.

Your installer should recommend products which are also MCS registered, but if you are unsure you can check a list of MCS approved products here.

Once your approved solar panels are installed, your installer will register you on a central database and provide you with an MCS certificate. This certificate indicates that your installation complies with MCS regulations, and that you are therefore eligible for the Feed in Tariff Scheme.

You will need to send your certificate to your energy supplier, who will then check the database and confirm that you are indeed eligible for the payments.

These payments - which you will receive for both the generation and export of your solar energy - will be paid to you at convenient intervals, as decided by you and your energy supplier.