Investing in solar panels is one of the smartest decisions Northern Ireland homeowners and businesses can make — not just for the environment, but for your wallet too. While the long-term savings from solar energy speak for themselves, one of the most common questions we get at Solar Power NI is: “Are there any grants or funding available to help with the cost of solar panels?”
The good news? There are several schemes and incentives that can help make solar more affordable.
1. Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
While not a grant in the traditional sense, the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) allows homeowners with solar panels to earn money by selling unused electricity back to the grid.
This means that every unit of power you don’t use can still help towards offsetting your installation costs — providing a steady return on your investment.
In Northern Ireland, suppliers like Power NI currently offer export rates around 10p per kWh.
2. 0% VAT on Solar Panels (UK-wide)
As of 2022, the UK government introduced 0% VAT on energy-saving materials — including solar panels, battery storage, and heat pumps — making it cheaper to install renewable technology in your home.
This scheme is due to run until 2027 and applies across Northern Ireland.
3. Energy Efficiency Grants for Low-Income Households
While there is no dedicated solar grant scheme specifically for Northern Ireland, low-income households may be eligible for help through the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP).
This programme offers funding for energy-saving improvements, although availability can vary year by year and may not always include solar panels directly. However, it can help with other measures like insulation — which work hand-in-hand with solar for maximum savings.
Check eligibility here: NI Direct – NISEP
4. Business Energy Grants
If you’re a business owner, the Invest NI Energy Efficiency Grant can sometimes be used to support renewable energy projects, including solar PV, as part of a wider energy-saving plan.
Businesses in Northern Ireland may also benefit from tailored advice or funding through local councils or specific energy programmes.
5. Financing Options with Solar Power NI
Even without a direct grant, many of our customers spread the cost of their system through finance options or low-interest loans — effectively using their energy savings to cover repayments.
Solar systems from Solar Power NI can pay for themselves in as little as 5-7 years, leaving you with decades of free electricity after that.
Are Solar Grants Likely in the Future?
With rising energy costs and increasing focus on renewable energy targets, there’s growing pressure on the Northern Ireland Executive to offer more dedicated solar funding or incentives — similar to schemes seen in the Republic of Ireland or Scotland.
At Solar Power NI, we’re keeping a close eye on future developments and will always advise our customers if new grants become available.
Final Thoughts – Solar is Still a Smart Investment
While Northern Ireland doesn’t currently offer a dedicated solar grant scheme like other parts of the UK or Ireland, there are still plenty of ways to make solar affordable — from export payments to VAT savings and finance options.
When you consider the rising cost of energy and the long-term savings solar provides, the real question is: Can you afford not to go solar?
Interested in Solar for Your Home or Business?
Get in touch with the Solar Power NI team today for a free quote and advice on the best solution for you. We’ll guide you through every available funding option and help you start saving straight away.
