Renewable Energy VAT Rates In The UK

On this page we explore the VAT rates for: Domestic | Charities | Commercial | Schools | Farms

VAT Rates For Domestic Properties

0% VAT applies to the installation of the following energy savings materials in residential properties:

  • Solar Panels (Roof and Ground)
  • Battery Storage (Standalone or retro-fitted to an existing system)
  • Air Conditioning Units
  • Energy Diverters

From 1st April 2027, a VAT rate of 5% will apply.

For more information, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-on-energy-saving-materials-and-heating-equipment-notice-7086

VAT Rates For Charities

0% VAT applies to the installation of the following energy savings materials in buildings intended for use solely for a relevant charitable purpose:

  • Solar Panels (Roof and Ground)
  • Battery Storage (Standalone or retro-fitted to an existing system)
  • Air Conditioning Units
  • Energy Diverters

Use for a relevant charitable purpose means use by a charity in either or both the following ways, namely:

  • otherwise than in the course or furtherance of a business.
  • as a village hall or similarly in providing social or recreational facilities for a local community.

From 1st April 2027, a VAT rate of 5% will apply.

For more information, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-on-energy-saving-materials-and-heating-equipment-notice-7086

VAT Rates For Commercial Properties

Commercial Properties are not eligible for 0% VAT and the standard 20% VAT applies for:

  • Solar Panels (Roof and Ground)
  • Battery Storage (Standalone or retro-fitted to an existing system)
  • Air Conditioning Units
  • Energy Diverters

While 20% VAT applies, there are additional funding methods available to help minimise the initial outlay of installing solar panels and other renewable technology. In all cases, we advise having a discussion with your accountant to ensure you take advantage of the most cost-effective funding solution for your business.

Annual Investment Allowance (AIA)

The installation of solar panels qualifies for special rate pool allowances and falls under the £1m annual investment allowance (AIA). This offers 100% relief on eligible assets like plant and machinery, including solar panels.

50% First-Year Allowance

As solar panels are ‘integral features’ of a commercial property, businesses can deduct 50% of the cost of an installation from their taxable income. For each year following the first year, 6% of the remaining cost will be written off via Writing Down Allowances (WDAs). This 50% allowance proves especially beneficial for companies lacking adequate AIA coverage.

VAT Rates For Schools

Schools are usually charged at 20%.

However, the installation of solar panels on a separate residential block (such as those found at boarding schools) would be charged at 0%. However, there would need to be a distinct difference in the buildings.

VAT Rates For Farms

Farms are not eligible for 0% VAT and the standard 20% VAT applies for:

  • Solar Panels (Roof and Ground)
  • Battery Storage (Standalone or retro-fitted to an existing system)
  • Air Conditioning Units
  • Energy Diverters

While 20% VAT applies, there are additional funding methods available to help minimise the initial outlay of installing solar panels and other renewable technology. In all cases, we advise having a discussion with your accountant to ensure you take advantage of the most cost-effective funding solution for your business.

Annual Investment Allowance (AIA)

The installation of solar panels qualifies for special rate pool allowances and falls under the £1m annual investment allowance (AIA). This offers 100% relief on eligible assets like plant and machinery, including solar panels.

This strategic move can result in substantial tax savings. For example, a farming partnership with profits of £500,000 that spends £215,000 on solar panels will only pay tax on £285,000 of their profits. Depending on their marginal rate of tax, this would save them up to £100,000 in tax (£215,000 x 47%) the next financial year.

50% First-Year Allowance

As solar panels are ‘integral features’ of a commercial property, farms can deduct 50% of the cost of an installation from their taxable income. For each year following the first year, 6% of the remaining cost will be written off via Writing Down Allowances (WDAs). This 50% allowance proves especially beneficial for companies lacking adequate AIA coverage.

DEFRA Grant (New for 2024!)

Applications for Round 2 of the ‘Improving Farm Productivity Grant’ opened in January 2024. For the first time, this includes grants ranging from £15,000 to £100,000 for solar equipment. The grants cover a maximum of 25% of your installation, with a minimum project value of £60,000.