Can you get a grant for commercial solar panels?
There is no single permanent UK grant available to every business installing solar. Support changes by location, business type and funding round, but grants are only one route: tax allowances, export payments and commercial finance can also improve project affordability.
Key takeaway
Check live local and sector schemes before relying on grant funding. Never delay a strong project solely in anticipation of a scheme that may not open or may be oversubscribed.
Where commercial solar grants may be available
Funding is often delivered through local authorities, combined authorities, regional net-zero programmes or sector-specific rural schemes. Eligibility, match-funding requirements and deadlines can change quickly.
- Local business decarbonisation programmes
- Regional growth and net-zero funds
- Rural and agricultural productivity schemes
- Innovation or energy-efficiency funding
- Occasional sector-specific support programmes
Other ways to improve affordability
A project does not need a grant to produce an attractive return. Businesses may use cash, asset finance, hire purchase, a power purchase agreement or another funded model depending on ownership and accounting objectives.
| Route | Potential advantage | Point to check |
|---|---|---|
| Cash purchase | Highest direct lifetime saving | Uses available capital |
| Asset finance | Spreads cost over an agreed term | Interest and ownership terms |
| Power purchase agreement | Potentially low upfront cost | Long contract and tariff terms |
| Grant plus cash/finance | Reduces eligible capital cost | Approval must often precede orders |
Capital allowances and export income
Eligible businesses may be able to claim capital allowances on qualifying solar expenditure. The tax treatment depends on the business and current rules, so obtain advice from a qualified accountant before building tax savings into an investment decision.
Surplus generation exported to the grid may earn revenue through an agreed export tariff. Export is usually less valuable than using electricity on site, but it can add a secondary income stream.
Funding and tax rules can change. Confirm current eligibility with the scheme administrator, your accountant and your finance provider.
Prepare before applying
Many grant programmes are competitive and will not fund work already ordered or started. Assemble energy bills, business details, site information, quotations and estimated carbon savings early. Make sure the installer’s proposal separates eligible and non-eligible costs where the scheme requires it.
Written by Horizon Commercial Solar. Reviewed by our commercial solar team and updated 23 September 2026. Figures are illustrative and depend on site conditions, tariffs and project scope.
