What is different in Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland has its own energy rules and schemes. Several GB routes do not reach it. As a result, you have fewer choices here.

nidirect says there is no financial support for homeowners who want to make their own power with solar panels. That is the starting point for most households. The routes below are the exceptions, plus the UK-wide measures that still apply.

NISEP schemes

NISEP is the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme. Energy Saving Trust runs it for the Utility Regulator. Its current year runs from 1 April 2026 to 31 March 2027, or until the money runs out. Funds are limited, so you may face a wait.

One scheme for owners lists solar. It is called Toasty Homes - Heat Pump and Solar Technologies. The list shows these details.

  • It is for owners who live in the home, anywhere in Northern Ireland.
  • The pay limit is £28,000 for one adult, or £35,000 for a couple or single parent.
  • The list names solar panels, heat pumps, battery storage and insulation.

We could not confirm whether this scheme takes applications on 10 October 2026. The list dates from April 2026, so check the Utility Regulator list first. The same list shows two other Toasty Homes schemes as closed. Also, you cannot apply if you had a grant for the same measure at the same home in the last 15 years.

Housing Executive tenants

The NISEP Priority PV Scheme is only for Housing Executive tenants. NISEP pays 50% of a PV system, hybrid inverter and battery, and the Housing Executive pays the rest. The Housing Executive picks the homes, so owners cannot apply.

Affordable Warmth

The Affordable Warmth Scheme helps owners and private tenants. Gross household income must be under £23,000. It pays up to £7,500, or up to £10,000 where a home needs solid wall insulation. However, it lists insulation, heating and windows, so solar panels are not included.

Do not start work before you have written confirmation. Private landlords must pay 50%. NISEP targets households that do not qualify for Affordable Warmth, so check the income limits for both.

Export payments

The Smart Export Guarantee covers Great Britain only. The Ofgem rules say the panels must be in Great Britain. Therefore, Northern Ireland homes cannot use it.

We could not confirm what homeowners earn for exported power here. Suppliers set their own export terms, so ask yours directly. The Utility Regulator has also published a decision on export from small generators.

VAT and finance

HMRC guidance says the 0% rate on installing energy-saving items applies here from 1 May 2023. Our page on zero VAT on solar explains the dates and what it covers. After 31 March 2027, the 5% rate applies across the UK.

Without a grant, you may look at borrowing instead. To learn more, read about solar loans and finance to learn how to check a lender and cancel an agreement. Also see our general guide on whether free solar panels exist in the UK.

Choosing a safe installer

Always check an installer before you sign. For example, look for an MCS certified firm and ask to see proof. Our guide shows how to check an MCS certified installer.

Pension Credit is a Great Britain benefit, so it does not count as a passport in Northern Ireland. Instead, the NISEP and Affordable Warmth pages set their own income tests.

How Northern Ireland differs from the other nations

Funding is devolved, so help varies. England has a council-run grant, as shown by solar funding routes in England. Likewise, solar funding routes in Scotland run through Home Energy Scotland. Neither applies in Northern Ireland.

Where to start

Start with the Utility Regulator list of NISEP schemes and the Housing Executive pages. They show if any scheme fits your income and your home. Our guide to solar support in Northern Ireland explains each step. If you want prices as a separate, optional step, you can request quotes.

FAQ / QUICK ANSWERS

Common questions

Is there a solar panel grant in Northern Ireland?
nidirect says there is no financial support for homeowners who want to generate their own electricity with solar panels. However, an income-tested NISEP scheme lists solar for some owner-occupiers. Check the Utility Regulator list for current availability.
Can I use the Smart Export Guarantee in Northern Ireland?
No. The Smart Export Guarantee covers Great Britain only. Ask your electricity supplier what export arrangements it offers.
Is there VAT on solar panels in Northern Ireland?
HMRC guidance says the 0% rate applies in Northern Ireland from 1 May 2023, and reverts to 5% after 31 March 2027. Check the HMRC notice for Northern Ireland before you rely on the dates.
Does Affordable Warmth pay for solar panels?
No. The Housing Executive lists insulation, heating and windows, but not solar panels. The scheme is for homes with a gross household income under £23,000.