Pay Monthly Solar Panels Finance & Other Ways to Pay

Investing in solar panels is one of the smartest ways to cut energy costs and reduce carbon footprints. However, the upfront expense can feel daunting.

Thankfully, solar panel finance options in the UK today make going solar more affordable by spreading the cost into manageable monthly payments or low-interest loans tailored to fit different budgets.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking for flexible payment plans, personal loans, or government-backed schemes, there’s a financing solution for you.

Explore our range of solar panels or get a quote online now to start your solar project with expert advice from Green Central.

What is Solar Panel Finance?

Solar panel finance allows you to install solar energy systems without paying the full price upfront. Instead, costs are broken down into monthly repayments through loans, subscription models, or installer financing plans.

This financial flexibility enables more households to access renewable energy by reducing the barrier of large initial investments.

Popular Solar Panel Financing Options in the UK

At Green Central, we make switching to solar as affordable and straightforward as possible by offering installer-provided finance. Through our trusted finance partners, you can spread the cost of your solar panel system over manageable monthly payments instead of paying everything upfront.

We provide flexible options to suit different budgets and households, including short-term 0% APR finance deals as well as longer repayment plans. This means you can start saving on your energy bills from day one without worrying about large initial costs.

By choosing our installer-backed finance packages, you’ll gain:

• Access to solar panels with little or no upfront payment
• Flexible payment terms tailored to your needs
• Options for interest-free financing on shorter agreements
• A fast, hassle-free application process with support from our team

With Green Central’s finance solutions, going solar has never been easier or more affordable.

Personal Loans

If you prefer, you can also fund your solar system with a personal loan through your bank, credit union, or other lender. Personal loans provide freedom in terms of repayment length and lender choice. While they let you control the borrowing process, it’s worth noting that interest rates and lender requirements may vary.

Paying Upfront (Self-Financing)

For those who have savings set aside, paying outright remains the quickest path to solar ownership. With no interest charges and immediate access to free renewable electricity, this method usually offers the fastest return on investment. Plus, owning your system outright from day one adds long-term value to your property.

Commercial Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

For businesses, landlords, and commercial properties, PPAs provide a no-capital solution. Under a PPA, a third-party investor covers the full installation and maintenance cost of your solar panels. In exchange, you agree to purchase the electricity the system generates at a pre-defined rate—usually cheaper than grid prices. You save money on bills and cut your carbon footprint, all without taking on installation or equipment costs.

Which payment option to choose?

The most common solar panel finance solutions include interest-free payment plans lasting up to three years, low APR loans typically around 9.9% to 11.9% over longer terms of up to 20 years, and buy now, pay later schemes that delay payments for several months.

Many energy suppliers and solar installers offer flexible payment plans. Personal loans from banks are also popular, providing fixed interest rates and repayment periods you can tailor to your financial situation. Additionally, some homeowners choose to add solar costs to a mortgage or refinance their existing mortgage as another way to finance solar installations.

Benefits of Solar Panel Financing

Choosing solar panel finance empowers you to start saving on electricity bills immediately rather than waiting years to save for a full payment. Financing helps spread your investment over time without compromising energy independence or environmental goals.

You can select from economical or premium solar panels, customise repayment length, and take advantage of government schemes. This approach increases affordability while promoting green energy adoption.

How Solar Panel Finance Works: Examples

Here’s a clear example of what repayment plans can look like over 15 years at an APR of 13.9%:

Spreading costs in this way makes solar panel installation more manageable and eases the financial burden while you start enjoying energy savings.

Popular Solar Finance Plans

Interest-free solar panel finance is highly attractive, allowing you to spread the cost over up to three years with no interest. Usually, no deposit is required, but paying part of the total cost upfront reduces monthly payments.

If you prefer longer repayment periods, fixed interest rates around 11.9% APR are available for terms up to 20 years. Some plans even provide buy now, pay later options with deferred payments for up to six months. Convenient direct debit payment methods make managing your monthly expenses simple and reliable.

Interest-Bearing Solar Panel Loans

These loans allow you to spread the cost of solar panels over a longer term (up to 15 or 20 years), but they include interest charges. Monthly payments are fixed based on the interest rate and loan length, making it easier to budget while gradually paying off the system.

Interest-Free Solar Panel Finance

Interest-free finance spreads the full cost over a short time (typically 1 to 3 years) with no interest added. Monthly repayments are higher but you pay no extra fees.

Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL) Solar Finance

BNPL plans allow you to install solar panels immediately with little or no upfront cost. You delay payments for a set period (e.g., 12 months payment holiday). After that, you can pay off the balance in full or in monthly instalments with interest.

These examples show how different finance plans affect your monthly outgoings and total costs. Interest-bearing loans spread costs long-term with added interest, interest-free finance requires higher but interest-free payments over a short term, and BNPL gives flexibility with delayed payments but is usually more expensive over time.

Adding Solar Battery Storage on Finance

Adding a solar battery helps you store excess energy for use when the sun isn’t shining, increasing your energy independence and savings. Financing options are available with 0% APR interest-free credit over three years or flexible monthly plans. Homeowners generally can pay a deposit upfront, with the rest financed.

Recent VAT reductions on solar battery systems further reduce overall costs, maximising the return on your renewable energy investment. Learn more about solar batteries, prices, and financing at Green Central’s solar battery page.

How to Qualify and Apply for Solar Panel Finance

Applicants generally need to be 18 to 85 years old (depending on finance term length), have been UK residents for at least three years, and have a minimum joint annual income of around £10,000. A good credit history and a bank account for direct debit payments are required. Proof of income, identification, and residence documents must be provided. The application process is straightforward, and Green Central’s experts can guide you through selecting and applying for the best solar panel finance plan.

Watch Out for Extra Costs

Be mindful of potential extra expenses such as scaffolding or electrical upgrades during installation. These costs may not always be included in finance plans but should be factored into your budget when planning your solar panel system.

Government Grants and Incentives Supporting Solar Finance

UK government programs significantly enhance solar affordability. The Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4) scheme targets low-income and vulnerable households, often covering up to 100% of installation costs.

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) pays you for excess solar electricity exported back to the grid, generating an additional income stream to offset financing costs. The Home Upgrade Grant provides thousands in funding for energy-efficient home improvements, including solar panels.

These grants and incentives are essential components of many financing plans, making renewable energy accessible to wider demographics.

The ECO4 scheme is open to low-income, fuel-poor, and vulnerable households receiving benefits and runs until 31 March 2026, offering potential free solar panel installations. The Home Upgrade Grant supports improvements in energy efficiency in select local authority areas, offering up to £10,000 funding until March 2025. To learn more about these programs, check out detailed information on government grants and schemes here.

Why Solar Panel Finance is a Smart Choice in 2025

With energy prices rising and continued emphasis on sustainability, solar panel finance offers an affordable path to renewable energy.

Flexible payment plans, combined with government grants and low-interest loans, make solar installations achievable for most UK homeowners. Financing increases your home’s value, cuts utility bills, and supports a greener future—all while fitting comfortably within your budget.

Start your solar project today by taking advantage of special offers like our buy one get one free solar panels with installation. For more information and to discuss personalised solar finance options, visit Get Solar Deals.

FAQs

Can I refinance my solar panel loan if my financial situation changes?

Many lenders allow refinancing or restructuring of solar panel loans depending on your credit status and loan terms. Refinancing can help reduce monthly payments or overall interest costs if your financial situation improves or changes.

Are there any credit score requirements for solar panel financing?

While requirements vary by lender, most solar finance options require a fair to good credit score. Some providers offer solutions for less-than-perfect credit but may charge higher interest rates or require larger deposits.

How does solar panel financing affect my property value?

Homes with owned solar panels typically see increased property value and may sell faster due to lower energy costs and eco-friendly features. Financing options that result in ownership, like loans, usually provide this benefit, while leasing or subscription models may not.

What happens if I sell my house with financed solar panels?

If you have a solar loan, you can pay it off during the sale or transfer the loan to the new owner, subject to lender approval. Leasing or subscription contracts may require transfer or early termination, so it’s important to clarify this before financing.

Is solar panel financing available for rental properties or commercial buildings?

Yes, many finance options are available for landlords and commercial properties, including loans and government incentives. Some plans are specifically designed for SMEs and landlords to encourage sustainable energy adoption.

Can I take advantage of solar panel financing if I have a roof with shading or limited space?

Solar panel finance is available regardless of roof conditions, but system size and efficiency may vary. Some installers offer tailored designs like microinverters or battery storage to optimise energy production in challenging scenarios.