Solar PV (photovoltaic panels) allow your home to generate its own clean electricity directly from sunlight. This reduces your reliance on the National Grid, cuts running costs, and improves your property’s overall energy efficiency. Even in cloudy weather, Solar PV systems can continue producing power throughout the day.

As energy prices rise, Solar PV has become one of the most effective long-term upgrades for lowering electricity bills. ECO4 can fully or partly fund Solar PV installations as part of a whole-house improvement plan, especially when the measures help the property reach a better EPC rating.

How Solar PV works

Solar PV systems convert sunlight into usable electricity through roof-mounted panels.

Here’s what happens:

• Sunlight hits the solar panels
• Panels convert light into direct current (DC) electricity
• An inverter transforms DC into usable AC electricity
• The home uses this electricity first, before pulling from the grid

This means you automatically use cheaper, self-generated electricity instead of paying for grid power.

Solar PV under the ECO4 scheme

Solar PV may be funded under ECO4 when:

• The home has a low EPC rating (D–G)
• The installation contributes significantly to energy savings
• The panels help the property move toward EPC band C
• The upgrade makes sense as part of a wider package (insulation, heating improvements, etc.)

Not all homes are suitable — roof angle, orientation, shading, and structural condition all play a role. A surveyor will check your property to confirm eligibility.

Benefits of Solar PV

Installing solar panels provides several long-term advantages:

• Lower electricity bills
• Reduced reliance on the grid
• Protection against rising energy prices
• Increased property value
• Improved EPC rating
• Environmentally friendly, zero-carbon electricity

Solar PV systems can also work alongside Air Source Heat Pumps, smart controls, and insulation upgrades to maximise energy efficiency.

Installation and quality

All Solar PV installations under ECO4 are completed by certified, TrustMark-accredited installers, ensuring the system is fitted safely and meets government standards.

For eligible households, Solar PV can deliver long-term savings, greater energy independence, and a significant improvement in the home’s overall energy performance — all fully funded where part of an approved whole-house upgrade plan.

If you don’t qualify for ECO4

At Future Proof Homes, we also offer a Solar Programme for households who do not qualify for the ECO4 scheme. This allows you to take advantage of renewable energy solutions at great value, helping you reduce your energy bills and gain energy independence even without government funding.