Grants for Installation of Domestic Solar Hot Water Systems

If you are planning to install a solar power system at your home or workplace, it is well worth looking into what is available in terms of government solar power grants. You may be eligible for assistance in financing the project, which only increases the ultimate cost savings you will make. The UK Government solar power grants available come from the Low Carbon Buildings Programme and are managed by the Energy Saving Trust.

Eligible homeowners can apply for a grant of up to £400 to assist in the cost of installing a solar panel hot water system. The system must be installed by an accredited installer and the system must include approved solar products. You must apply for the grant before installation commences and you need to pass certain qualifying requirements. You will also need to obtain a quote from an accredited installer (such as 3 Counties Heating) before applying for the grant.

Qualifying Requirements

To qualify for the grant, you will be required to demonstrate that you have installed a basic level of energy efficient measures and you should endeavour to minimise your energy usage as much as is practically possible beforehand.

Before applying for a grant for a solar hot water system you are required you to have:

• insulated the whole of your loft to meet current building regulations, which is 270mm of mineral wool loft insulation or suitable alternative;
• installed cavity wall insulation (if you have cavity walls);
• fitted low energy light bulbs in all appropriate light fittings;
• installed basic controls for your heating system to include a room thermostat and a programmer or timer.

Further Information

For more information please visit these websites:

• www.lowcarbonbuildings.org for details of the DTI’s low carbon buildings grant.
• www.energysavingtrust.org.uk for information on saving energy and applying for the grant.