The government’s Warm Homes Plan is one of the biggest home energy programmes the UK has seen. Published in January 2026, it aims to help millions of households cut their energy bills through upgrades such as solar panels, battery storage, heat pumps and insulation.
If you’re a homeowner in Surrey or Berkshire and you’ve been considering solar, you may be wondering what the plan means for you. Here’s a clear guide to what it includes, who it is likely to help and how to approach it.
The Warm Homes Plan is a long term government programme backed by around £15 billion of public funding. Its aim is to upgrade up to five million homes by 2030, reduce energy bills and help lift families out of fuel poverty.
A key focus is rooftop solar. The government has said it wants to significantly increase the number of homes with solar panels by the end of the decade. You can read the plan itself on GOV.UK.
The plan brings several types of support together. The main elements relevant to homeowners are:
Most homeowners won’t qualify for fully funded upgrades, which are aimed at lower income households and homes with poor energy efficiency. For many people in Surrey and Berkshire, the more relevant part of the plan is the loan support, which is intended to make the upfront cost of solar and battery storage easier to manage.
Eligibility, lenders, interest rates and loan limits are set by the scheme rules and can change, so always check the latest information on GOV.UK or with a participating lender before making any decisions.
Not necessarily. Many homeowners pay for solar from savings, and the case for solar doesn’t depend on government support. A well designed system can reduce your bills from the day it’s switched on.
It’s also worth remembering that the 0% VAT rate on qualifying solar panels and battery storage is currently due to end on 31 March 2027. Waiting for one form of support could mean missing out on another, so it’s sensible to weigh up your options now. You can learn more in our guide to whether solar panels are worth it in 2026.
Whenever new funding is announced, some companies use it as a sales tactic. Be cautious of:
Government support for solar typically requires an MCS certified installer. Our guide to the questions to ask before choosing a solar installer will help you check you’re dealing with a reputable company.
One of the aims of the Warm Homes Plan is to help homes move towards cleaner, more efficient energy. Solar panels generate electricity, battery storage lets you use more of it, and a heat pump can use that electricity to heat your home. Insulation and efficient glazing then help keep that warmth in.
If you’re planning several upgrades over the next few years, it’s worth thinking about them together. Designing your solar system around your future energy use means it will be ready for what comes next.
At Sheerwater Solar, we’ll explain the options that are realistically available to you, without exaggerating what any scheme can offer. Whether you pay upfront, use finance or are exploring government support, we’ll design a system that suits your home and your budget.
Not sure what support might be available to you? Contact the Sheerwater Solar team for clear, honest advice on solar, batteries and your options. We’ll help you understand the next steps and design the right system for your home.
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Reaching out to Sheerwater Solar is straightforward and hassle-free. Whether you’re interested in solar panels for your home or business in Woking, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. You can contact us directly by calling 01932 627 555 or by sending an email to info@sheerwatersolar.co.uk.
Alternatively, fill in our online form for a swift response.
What happens next?
In most cases, we’ll need to conduct an on-site survey at your property to assess the feasibility and provide you with a tailored quote. This visit allows us to understand your specific needs and explore the potential for renewable energy solutions. Following the survey, we’ll discuss the best options for integrating solar energy into your property, including detailed costs and the installation process.
We’re excited to assist you on your journey to renewable energy and look forward to hearing from you.