Grants for Solar Battery Storage in the UK

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If you’ve already installed solar panels—or are planning to—you’ve likely wondered about solar battery storage. A battery system lets you store excess energy instead of sending it back to the grid, giving you more control over your electricity use and bigger savings.

But solar batteries aren’t cheap. So the question is: are there any grants or funding options for solar battery storage in the UK in 2025?

Yes—but it’s a mix of direct grants, 0% VAT relief, and regional incentives. This guide will walk you through every option currently available.

Are There UK Grants for Solar Battery Storage in 2025?

Yes, but there’s no nationwide standalone grant exclusively for battery storage. Instead, battery storage is often included as part of wider energy efficiency programs or offered as an add-on to solar panel funding schemes.

That said, there are still ways to get a solar battery more affordably, through:

  • Government grants (linked to solar PV)

  • 0% VAT on battery installations

  • Cashback offers and green loans

  • Regional programs in Scotland, Wales, and England

What Funding Options Are Available for Solar Battery Storage?

Let’s break down the most useful support options across the UK:

1. 0% VAT on Battery Storage (UK-Wide)

As of February 2024, VAT on standalone solar battery installations is 0%.

  • Applies to:

    • Standalone battery storage (even if installed after solar panels)

    • Integrated battery and solar panel systems

  • Who qualifies:

    • Homeowners installing battery storage for domestic use

  • Savings:

    • Cuts up to 20% off installation costs

This tax break is automatic and applies across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland—no application needed.

2. Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan (Scotland Only)

Scotland offers the most generous support for solar batteries in the UK.

  • What you get:

    • £1,250 grant towards solar PV

    • £500 extra grant if you include battery storage

    • Up to £6,000 interest-free loan for solar and battery systems

  • Eligibility:

    • Homeowners and self-builders

    • Must install through approved suppliers

  • How to apply:

    • Apply via Home Energy Scotland

    • Pre-approval required before starting work

If you’re in Scotland, this is the best way to reduce solar battery costs in 2025.

3. Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) + Battery Use

While SEG doesn’t offer direct funding for batteries, it pairs well with storage to increase energy efficiency.

  • How it helps:

    • You can choose when to export electricity from your battery to get the best SEG rate

    • Some suppliers offer battery-specific export tariffs

  • Benefit:

    • Boosts financial returns over time—making your battery pay off faster

Suppliers like Octopus Energy and E.ON Next offer dynamic SEG tariffs that work well with battery systems.

4. ECO4 Scheme (England, Wales, Northern Ireland)

ECO4 is primarily for solar panels and heating upgrades, but may include battery storage in some cases.

  • Who’s eligible:

    • Low-income households or those on qualifying benefits

    • Properties with poor energy efficiency (EPC rating D–G)

  • Battery funding:

    • Typically approved when batteries are installed alongside solar PV

    • More common in full-home retrofit packages

  • How to apply:

    • Through an ECO4-approved installer or local council

While not guaranteed, some homeowners have had batteries included under ECO4—especially when it improves long-term efficiency.

5. Local Council and Regional Battery Support

A growing number of local authorities in England and Wales are piloting battery storage incentives, especially in:

  • Fuel poverty areas

  • Smart grid testbeds

  • Retrofit programs like “Whole House” or “Net Zero Ready” pilots

Examples include:

  • Solar Together group-buying schemes (with battery options)

  • Local energy grants using UK Shared Prosperity Funding

  • Community energy projects with subsidised storage

Check with your council’s energy department or regional energy hub—offers vary by postcode.

What Does Solar Battery Storage Cost in the UK?

Battery storage costs vary based on capacity and whether it’s integrated with solar. Here’s a typical range:

Battery Size Estimated Cost (Installed) Suitable For
4 kWh £3,000–£4,000 Small homes / 2 kW solar
6 kWh £4,000–£5,000 Average 3-bed home
10 kWh £6,000–£8,000 Larger homes / 5 kW+

With grants and VAT relief, you can cut these costs by up to 25–30%.

Can You Get Free Solar Battery Storage?

Free solar batteries are not widely available, but under certain circumstances:

  • ECO4 or council schemes may include them in full-funded home upgrades

  • Housing associations or community projects may provide storage systems

  • Low-income households in retrofit zones may qualify for full system installation

These cases are limited, but worth exploring through local councils or energy advice centers.

Are Solar Batteries Worth It in 2025?

Here’s a quick look at why battery storage makes financial sense:

  • Energy Bill Savings: Store unused solar energy and use it at night—reducing grid reliance

  • SEG Optimization: Export at peak times for better returns

  • Protection from Energy Price Surges: Use your own energy during peak rate periods

  • Energy Independence: Gain more control over usage and pricing

On average, a solar battery can increase your solar self-consumption from 40% to 80%—slashing annual bills by an extra £200–£500 depending on your usage.

How to Apply for Solar Battery Grants or Support

Step 1: Check Eligibility

  • Are you in Scotland? Start with Home Energy Scotland

  • On low income or benefits? Check ECO4 support

  • In England or Wales? Explore local council or community schemes

Step 2: Choose MCS-Certified Installers

  • Only MCS installers qualify for SEG, grant compatibility, and VAT relief

Step 3: Apply Before Installation

  • Most grants require approval before you start work

  • Work with installers who understand the paperwork

Step 4: Install and Register for SEG

  • If exporting to the grid, apply for SEG payments with your energy supplier

Final Thoughts: Is Battery Storage Worth Exploring in the UK?

Absolutely. With 0% VAT, regional grants, SEG support, and new finance options, battery storage is becoming more accessible than ever.

While there’s no one-size-fits-all grant across the UK, a combination of savings, local support, and smart energy management can make your solar battery system a solid investment in 2025.

Don’t miss out—check with your local authority or energy advisor today, and make your home smarter, greener, and more energy-independent.

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