Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular as a way to reduce energy bills and minimise your carbon footprint. However, the cost of purchasing and installing solar panels can be a significant barrier for many people. Fortunately, there are several ways to get free solar panels in the United Kingdom.
1. The Green Homes Grant
The Green Homes Grant scheme was launched in September 2020 to help homeowners and landlords make energy-efficient improvements to their properties. Under this scheme, eligible homeowners can receive vouchers worth up to £5,000 to cover two-thirds of the cost of energy-efficient upgrades, including solar panels.
To be eligible for the Green Homes Grant, you must own your home or be a private or social landlord. The property must also be in England, and you must install the eligible measures before the voucher expires.
2. The Renewable Heat Incentive (RHI)
The Renewable Heat Incentive is a government scheme that provides financial incentives to homeowners who install renewable heat technologies, including solar panels. The scheme is open to homeowners, landlords, and businesses in the United Kingdom.
Under the RHI, you can receive payments for up to 7 years based on the amount of renewable heat your solar panels generate. The amount you receive will depend on the size of your system and the amount of renewable heat it generates.
3. Community energy schemes
Community energy schemes are a great way to get free solar panels while contributing to your local community. These schemes involve a group of people coming together to invest in renewable energy projects, such as solar panels on a community building.
Under these schemes, you can invest in the project and receive a return on your investment over time. You can also benefit from reduced energy bills if you are a member of the community.
4. Solar panel leasing
Solar panel leasing is another way to get free solar panels. Under this arrangement, a solar panel company will install solar panels on your roof for free, and you will pay a monthly fee to lease the panels.
The company will maintain the panels and monitor their performance, and you will benefit from reduced energy bills. However, you will not own the panels, and the lease agreement will typically last for 20-25 years.
5. Grants and funding from charities and local authorities
There are several charities and local authorities in the United Kingdom that offer grants and funding for renewable energy projects, including solar panels. These grants may be available to homeowners, community groups, and businesses.
To find out if there are any grants or funding opportunities in your area, you can contact your local authority or environmental charity.
In conclusion, there are several ways to get free solar panels in the United Kingdom. The Green Homes Grant and the Renewable Heat Incentive are government schemes that provide financial incentives for installing solar panels. Community energy schemes, solar panel leasing, and grants and funding from charities and local authorities are other ways to get free solar panels while contributing to your local community or reducing your energy bills.
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