The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has revealed that nearly 33,000 UK households could be missing out on a government-backed scheme offering free solar panel installations worth up to £7,000. These solar panels are available as part of the UK’s ongoing effort to assist low-income and fuel-poor households, yet many eligible citizens remain unaware of this opportunity.
This scheme, part of the ECO4 grant, aims to support households with low energy efficiency ratings and high energy needs. With rising energy costs, the offer presents a significant opportunity for those in need of sustainable energy solutions. However, a failure to act could result in households missing out on savings and government support.
Solar Panels to Reduce Energy Bills
The UK government’s ECO4 grant is designed to help vulnerable households install energy-saving technologies like solar panels. According to George Penny, a solar expert and Director at The Solar Co., between July 2022 and February 2025, energy suppliers have successfully completed over 38,000 solar installations under this program.
Despite this, many potential beneficiaries remain unaware of their eligibility. The scheme specifically targets households in England with an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating of E-G, which are often older or less energy-efficient homes.
For homes using electricity to heat their homes and receiving means-tested benefits, the installation of solar panels can help reduce ongoing energy costs. With more than 3.5 million UK households on means-tested benefits, the opportunity for savings is significant. Yet, up to 32,900 eligible households could miss out on this initiative unless they act now.
The Hidden Costs of Solar Panel Installation Mistakes
While the benefits of installing solar panels are clear, experts highlight a number of common mistakes that can lead to additional costs. One of the most frequent issues is failing to properly assess the condition of the roof before installation. According to George Penny, an estimated 1 in 5 homes in the UK require roof repairs.
If this is overlooked, homeowners may find themselves paying an additional £500 to £2,000 to remove and reinstall the solar panels when roof repairs are needed.
Furthermore, choosing the wrong solar panel system size can lead to financial losses. Penny warns that an oversized system could generate excess electricity, resulting in wasted investment, while an undersized system might leave homeowners reliant on grid electricity.
Such errors could lead to an overspend of £1,000 to £3,000, or a yearly loss of £100 to £300 in potential savings. These considerations highlight the importance of a thorough roof inspection and careful planning to ensure the system is the right size for the household’s needs. It is also crucial for homeowners to ensure they have obtained the necessary planning permission for solar panel installations, particularly for listed properties or those in conservation areas, to avoid potential fines.
