If it sounds too good to be true it usually is, companies offering free solar panels, while there is some truth behind them – as they wouldn’t be able to advertise such offers if there was no truth behind their claims – usually come with a high price to pay somewhere along the way. In general, these companies are just looking for your data to either sell on or use later once they’ve enticed you in.
With over 16 years in the industry, SolarTherm UK have seen and spoken to customers who have experienced every form of solar scam over the years. This article will look in detail at two claiming to give you the opportunity for free solar panels – that you’ll either never qualify for or end up worse off.
Leasing Solar Panels
While this is decreasing in popularity, some companies do still offer a lease contract of solar panels. With a solar panel installation, you can expect to save up to 70% on your electricity bill from day one to year 30. Solar panel leasing schemes let you lease the equipment to reduce your energy bills for a price, usually not much difference from what you are saving on your bills so in reality, although you are saving (for example) £80 a month on your bill, you are paying £75 a month on the lease. Long term you end up paying more for your equipment than if you had invested out-right for the panels or purchased them on finance.
While you own the equipment after the end of your lease, you will be out of pocket for the duration of the lease and then are usually left with a sub-standard low-quality system. Lease schemes tend to use cheaper and less efficient solar panels or even second-hand panels as they are not interested in the quality of the system once you lease has expired.
Government Funded Solar Panels
Currently there is no Government backed grant scheme for residential green home improvements. The previous scheme – ECO4 – ended in March 2026. ECO4 was a government backed grant scheme to help low-income households improve the efficiency of their homes, applied for via energy suppliers. Companies advertising ‘postcodes in your area qualify for government grants – sign up to find out more’ are just trying to get your data to sell on. These companies care very little about whether you qualify for a scheme or that installers don’t decide who receives a grant.
If it seems too good to be true – it probably is
With solar quickly becoming the most affordable option for green energy, if you have the capital it is far more beneficial to invest in your green future outright to start seeing the savings from day one. If you can’t afford to purchase outright – and many people can’t – SolarTherm UK offers affordable finance options, many of which can be offset against your savings, so your monthly outgoings don’t increase.
Contact SolarTherm UK today for a free bespoke quote and design, tailored to your property, budget, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice – we don’t charge you for our advice, it comes as part of the service.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
Frequently Asked Questions
Usually, no. Offers advertised as “free solar panels” may involve finance agreements, leases, long-term contracts or other conditions. It is important to understand the full cost and terms before agreeing to anything.
Some companies may install panels at little or no upfront cost but recover their costs through finance payments, leases or agreements relating to the electricity generated. The overall cost can therefore be significantly higher than a straightforward purchase.
There is no general government scheme that provides free solar panels to every homeowner. Some grants and funding schemes may be available to eligible households, but these have specific criteria and are not the same as a universal free solar panel scheme.
Check who is installing the system, whether the installer is MCS certified, the contract length, total costs, ownership of the panels and battery, maintenance responsibilities, and what happens if you sell your home. You should also check whether the quoted savings are realistic.
For many homeowners, purchasing a solar PV system outright can provide greater long-term control and financial benefit. You own the system, keep the benefits of the electricity it generates and can usually access export payments through an eligible tariff.
Be cautious of unsolicited calls, high-pressure sales tactics and claims that panels are completely free or guaranteed to eliminate your electricity bills. Always research the installer independently, check their credentials and get a detailed written quotation before making a decision.
