Business Rates Exemption for Renewable Energy
On-site renewable energy installations (solar PV, wind, heat pumps) used primarily for the business's own consumption are exempt from business rates. This means installing solar panels on your roof will not increase your rateable value, potentially saving thousands per year.
Funding Amount
Ongoing saving: avoidance of rates on renewable asset value (typically £500-£5,000/yr)
Deadline
No deadline — permanent policy
Eligibility Checklist
Required Documents
- 1Details of renewable energy installation
- 2Evidence of primary self-consumption (not export-focused)
- 3Business rates bill showing current rateable value
- 4MCS certificate or similar for the installation
Step-by-Step Application Process
Install qualifying renewable energy equipment
Ensure the installation is primarily for own use
Contact your local authority's business rates team
Provide evidence of the installation and its use
VOA updates the rateable value assessment
Exemption applied to future rates bills automatically
Key Conditions & Gotchas
- !Only applies if energy is primarily for own consumption
- !Export-focused solar farms or wind farms are NOT exempt
- !The exemption is automatic but you may need to notify the VOA
- !Does not reduce existing rateable value — prevents increase from the installation
- !Check with your local authority as implementation can vary
Grant Stacking
Fully compatible with all other grants and tax reliefs. This is a rates exemption, not a grant — it works alongside everything else.
Ready to Apply?
Visit the official application portal or book a free consultation with our team.