While the national "Green Homes Grant" has ended, 2026 is a milestone year for solar funding in Greater Manchester. Whether you live in a Victorian terrace in Chorlton or a modern semi in Stockport, there are currently three major ways to fund your solar panels transition.
1The ECO4 Scheme & LA Flex (Manchester)
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) is the primary government-backed scheme running through March 2026.
In many cases, 100% of the cost for solar panels, heat pumps, and insulation.
Low-income households or those receiving qualifying benefits (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc.).
The Manchester Advantage (LA Flex)
Even if you don't receive benefits, Manchester City Council and the GMCA use "LA Flex" rules. You may qualify if your household income is under £31,000 or if a resident has a health condition made worse by the cold.
2The "Warm Homes: Local Grant" (New for 2025/2026)
Launched in April 2025, this grant is specifically designed for local authorities like the Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA) to help "off-gas" homes and those with an EPC rating of D–G.
Funding Amount
Can provide up to £10,000–£15,000 for deep retrofits, including solar PV.
How to Apply
Residents must apply through the "Feel the Benefit" Greater Manchester Retrofit Portal.
3Solar Together Greater Manchester
If you don't qualify for a low-income grant, you can still save through group-buying.
This is a council-backed scheme where Manchester residents "bundle" their buying power to get high-quality solar installations at a significantly lower market rate (often 20-30% cheaper than national averages).
Check the Solar Together GMCA portal for the next auction date.
Quick Eligibility Checklist
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Property Type | Domestic (Owner-occupied or Private Rental) |
| EPC Rating | D, E, F, or G (Check yours at the Gov.uk Register) |
| Household Income | Typically under £31,000 for local council support |
| VAT Status | 0% VAT on all solar installations (Extended through March 2027) |
Expert Tip for Manchester Residents
"Because of Manchester's high concentration of conservation areas like Castlefield and Didsbury St James, always check if your grant-funded installation requires 'Prior Approval' from the council. At Greentech Renewables, we handle the planning paperwork as part of our local service."
Ready to see what you could save?
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