Solar panels and ECO4: common questions from UK households (guide 2026)

Guide by ApplyFreeBoiler.uk (Reliant Energy Solutions Ltd), a heating and insulation installer in Bury, Greater Manchester. We are not the government, Ofgem or an energy supplier.

Solar panels sometimes come up in ECO4 conversations, usually as part of a wider package of upgrades for a home rather than on their own. This page answers questions households often ask. It is general information from ApplyFreeBoiler.uk, a heating and insulation installer in Bury. Whether solar is suitable depends on the survey and the scheme rules at the time. This page does not guarantee funding.

1. Is solar part of ECO4?

Solar PV can be one of the measures considered under ECO4 for some homes, often alongside heating or insulation work. The surveyor decides what is recommended for your property.

2. Your roof

The surveyor will look at the direction the roof faces, shading from trees or nearby buildings, and the condition of tiles and roof timbers.

3. Permissions

Most homes do not need planning permission for roof panels, but listed buildings, conservation areas and flats can differ. Leaseholders and tenants need the owner's agreement.

4. Scaffolding and access

Fitting panels usually needs scaffolding. Think about access for neighbours, parked cars and garden plants.

5. The inverter and wiring

An inverter converts the electricity for use in your home. Ask where it will go, often in the loft or near the consumer unit, and how cables will be routed.

6. Paperwork to keep

Keep the installation certificate, the electrical certificate, warranty details and any notification to your electricity network operator.

7. Getting paid for spare electricity

If you would like payment for electricity you send to the grid, ask energy suppliers about Smart Export Guarantee tariffs. You will usually need a smart or export meter.

8. Check funding and local figures

See ECO measures by council on ApplyFreeBoiler.uk, built from DESNZ Household Energy Efficiency statistics, to see how many ECO measures have been installed in your local authority area. Use the ApplyFreeBoiler.uk eligibility check to see whether an ECO4 heating or insulation pathway may be available for your home in England, Scotland or Wales. ECO4 is due to close on 31 December 2026.