Solar Panels on Finance: Spread the Cost, Maximise Your Savings

Understanding solar panel financing options

Learn how solar panel finance makes renewable energy more affordable for UK homeowners.

What solar panel finance means for homeowners

Solar panel finance allows homeowners to install solar panels now and spread the cost over time.

It helps people benefit from renewable energy and lower bills without needing to pay thousands upfront.

Finance agreements are usually available for two to ten years, depending on the plan and lender.

How solar panel loans and monthly payments work

Once approved, your lender or installer covers the upfront solar panel cost, and you repay through fixed monthly payments.

Many installers offer 0% APR finance over shorter terms, while others provide low-interest options for longer periods.

This flexibility helps match the repayment plan to your budget.

Example:
For a typical 4kW solar system costing around £6,000, monthly payments could be about £250 over 24 months at 0% APR.

For a larger 6kW system, low-interest finance could spread repayments over 5-10 years with smaller monthly instalments.

Common types of solar financing in the UK

Homeowners in the UK typically finance solar panels in three ways:

• Installer finance - Offered directly through companies such as iHeat.
  

• Personal loans - Taken out through a bank or building society.
  

• Government incentives - Including VAT relief and funding support through schemes like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
  

Comparing the main ways to finance solar panels

Choose the solar finance option that best fits your budget and goals.

Interest-free solar panel finance (0% APR options)

Interest-free finance lets you pay for your system over 12 to 24 months with no added interest.

This is ideal for homeowners who can manage short-term repayments but want to avoid paying more overall.

Low-interest and personal loan options

Low-interest finance spreads payments over a longer term, usually three to ten years.

Monthly costs are smaller, making it easier to manage. Personal loans offer flexibility but can come with higher interest rates.

Home improvement loans and green energy funding

Some banks and energy providers now offer loans specifically for renewable home upgrades.

These products may feature lower rates or repayment incentives for energy-efficient investments.

Common solar finance options in the UK

What affects the cost of financing solar panels

System size and home energy use

The bigger the system, the higher the total cost and monthly repayment.

Most three-bedroom homes use a 4kW solar system, while larger homes may need 6kW or more.

The right system depends on energy use and roof size.

Deposit and loan term

Some finance options ask for a small deposit, often around 10%.

Extending your repayment period can lower monthly costs but may increase total interest paid.

Credit score and eligibility

Finance approval depends on your credit history and income.

Lenders assess affordability to make sure repayments are realistic.

iHeat partners with trusted UK finance providers for transparent and fair agreements.

Is financing solar panels worth it?

Savings and payback time

Solar panels can save households hundreds each year on electricity bills.

Over time, these savings help balance out the repayment cost.

Payback periods vary depending on system size, usage, and energy prices.

How finance makes solar more accessible

By spreading payments, finance removes one of the biggest barriers to adopting solar: the upfront cost.

This makes renewable energy achievable for more homeowners, not just those with large savings ready.

When paying upfront makes sense

If you have available funds, paying in full removes any finance costs and starts your savings sooner.

For most homeowners, however, finance provides a more flexible and affordable entry point.

Once you’ve explored your finance options, it’s important to choose the right system for your home.

Read our guide to comparing solar panels for clear advice on efficiency, cost, and performance before you buy.

How to apply for solar panel finance in the UK

Step-by-step process

1. Get a quote - Choose your system and request a fixed price.
   

2. Apply for finance - Complete a short online application.
   

3. Eligibility check - The finance provider reviews your application.
   

4. Agree repayment terms - Choose your payment plan.
   

5. Installation - Once approved, iHeat’s certified installers fit your system.
   

Documents you may need

You will need proof of identity, address, and income. These are standard checks under UK consumer credit regulations.

Why FCA regulation matters

Always choose an installer or finance provider regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

This ensures your agreement follows UK consumer protection laws and guarantees transparency.

iHeat and 0% APR solar finance

0% interest available

iHeat offers 0% APR finance, letting you spread the cost of solar panel installation without paying extra interest.

Accredited and trusted

All installations are carried out by MCS-certified engineers, and iHeat is authorised by the FCA as a credit broker, so every finance plan is fully transparent and regulated.

Highly rated UK installer

With over 10,000 verified 5-star reviews and Which? Trusted Trader approval, iHeat is a trusted name for solar installations nationwide.

Solar made simple

From instant online quotes to expert fitting and full warranty support, iHeat helps homeowners reduce bills and emissions through flexible, interest-free solar finance.

With nationwide coverage and simple 0% APR plans, iHeat makes switching to solar easy for every UK homeowner.

Making solar finance simple and affordable for every homeowner

How finance supports the switch to renewable energy

Finance allows more UK households to access solar power, helping the nation move closer to its renewable energy goals while cutting energy costs.

Why timing matters

With electricity costs still around 50% higher than in 2021, solar panel finance helps homeowners lock in long-term savings while paying nothing upfront.

FCA-regulated for peace of mind

All finance plans must comply with UK consumer credit regulations set by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).

This ensures every agreement is transparent, fair, and fully protected.

The bottom line

Solar panel finance gives homeowners control over energy costs and carbon footprint.

With options like 0% APR through iHeat, the move to clean energy has never been simpler or more affordable.

Always check your installer is MCS certified and FCA regulated before applying for finance to ensure your investment is protected and compliant.