Are there any solar grants for homeowners in Northern Ireland?

No. As of 2026 there are no direct government grants for domestic solar panel installations in Northern Ireland, although other forms of support are still available.

Do businesses get funding for solar panels in Northern Ireland?

Yes. Businesses can often access grants or contributions of up to around 20% towards commercial solar PV systems through schemes such as the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme.

Do schools and charities get solar funding in Northern Ireland?

Yes. The Action Renewables Solar PV Support Programme offers fully funded installations, including maintenance and repairs, for eligible schools, charities and community groups.

Is solar still worth it without grants in Northern Ireland?

Yes. Thanks to 0% VAT on domestic installations and high electricity prices, many Northern Ireland homes still see full payback from solar within roughly 5 years even without grants.

Do I qualify for 0% VAT on solar panels in Northern Ireland?

Most domestic solar installations qualify for the UK-wide 0% VAT rate on energy-saving materials, which currently includes solar panels for residential properties.

Solar Grants & Financial Support in Northern Ireland (2026)

If you've been searching for solar grants in Northern Ireland, here's the truth:

No Domestic Grants

There are no NI solar grants for homeowners in 2026

Still Great Value

Strong financial incentives make solar extremely worthwhile

Homeowners, businesses, schools and charities still have strong financial incentives that make solar extremely worthwhile. This page gives you the accurate, up-to-date breakdown.

Homeowners Businesses Schools & Charities

1. Domestic Homeowners (No Grants, But Big Savings)

While there are no grants available, homeowners still benefit from significant financial advantages

No Grants Available

The previous NI domestic grant programmes have ended. There are currently no solar grants for homeowners in Northern Ireland.

0% VAT on Domestic Solar

This instantly reduces installation costs by eliminating the 20% VAT charge.

Example: £8,000 system = £1,600 saved

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

Some energy suppliers pay you for excess electricity exported to the grid.

Typical rates: 4-7p per kWh exported

Fast Payback

Most NI households achieve full payback in around 5 years, even without grants.

After 5 years: pure savings for 20+ years

The Bottom Line

Even without grants, solar is one of the best home investments in Northern Ireland. The combination of 0% VAT, high electricity prices, and strong solar performance makes it financially compelling.

Connect with experienced solar installers NI to get accurate pricing and tailored advice for your home.

2. Business & Commercial Solar Grants

Businesses in Northern Ireland can access significant funding support

Up to 20% Funding

For commercial solar installations

Available Now

Funding Usually Through:

NISEP

Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme

Supplier Incentives

Funding from energy suppliers

Business Schemes

Business energy support programmes

This Is Huge For:

Warehouses

Hospitality

Agriculture

Manufacturing

Multi-Site Operators

Retail

Fast Commercial ROI

Commercial systems often see very fast ROI due to high daytime energy usage and larger installations. With 20% funding support, payback can be as little as 3-4 years.

3. Schools, Charities & Community Groups

One of the most generous renewable energy schemes in Northern Ireland

Action Renewables Solar Support Programme

Through this programme, eligible groups receive comprehensive solar support including installation, maintenance, and long-term assistance.

Fully Funded Installation

Complete solar PV system installed at no cost to your organization

Fully Funded Maintenance

Ongoing system maintenance covered by the programme

Fully Funded Repairs

All repair costs covered throughout the system's lifetime

Long-Term Support

Continued assistance and guidance from programme experts

Who Can Apply?

Schools

Charities

Community Groups

Contact Action Renewables to check eligibility and start your application

One of NI's Most Generous Schemes

This programme removes all financial barriers for eligible organizations, making solar energy completely accessible to schools, charities, and community groups across Northern Ireland.

4. NI Energy Advice Service

For insulation, heating upgrades and other home energy measures

Official Government-Supported Guidance

NI residents can contact NI Energy Advice for support with:

Insulation

Heating Upgrades

Energy Efficiency

Double Glazing

Renewables Advice

Grant Schemes

Contact NI Energy Advice

For personalized guidance on energy efficiency measures and available support schemes for your home.

Visit NIenergy Advice

FAQ — Solar Grants NI

Are there any grants for homeowners?

Is solar still worth it without grants?

Do businesses get support?

Do schools and charities get full funding?

Do I qualify for the 0% VAT solar rate?

Get Your Free Solar Quote

Whether you're a homeowner looking to benefit from 0% VAT and fast payback, or a business seeking 20% funding support — connect with trusted, MCS-certified installers in Northern Ireland.

Get My Free Quote

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