Check if your home qualifies for a free battery
Homeowners and private tenants can apply. It only takes a few minutes.
The short answer
Yes. Battery storage does not need solar panels. A home battery can charge from the electricity network, depending on the installation and the programme it is part of.
Why people assume you need solar
For years, home batteries were mostly sold as an add-on to solar panels: store the surplus you generate at midday, use it in the evening. That is still a common setup, so it’s easy to think the two always go together. But a battery simply stores electricity — it doesn’t mind where the electricity came from.
Solar + battery vs standalone battery storage
| Solar + battery | Standalone battery | |
|---|---|---|
| Needs solar panels? | Yes | No |
| Main charging source | Surplus solar generation, often topped up from the grid | The electricity grid |
| When it typically charges | Daytime, when the panels generate more than you use | When demand or prices are lower, often overnight |
| Works in winter? | Solar output falls in winter; grid charging can fill the gap | Yes — it doesn’t depend on sunshine |
| Suits | Homes with, or planning, solar panels | Homes without solar, or without a suitable roof for it |
To understand the mechanics behind both, read how a home battery works.
No solar panels? You can still apply
The Free Home Battery Scheme doesn’t require solar panels.
The Free Home Battery Scheme and solar
The free home battery scheme installs connected batteries that are managed as part of a programme — helping to lower household bills, support the grid and strengthen energy security. You don’t need solar panels to apply. Homeowners and private tenants can both apply; see who is eligible.
Already have solar panels?
You can still apply — tell us in your application. How a battery would work alongside your existing system is looked at during the survey.
What installation looks like without solar
A standalone battery is connected to your home’s electrical installation and to the programme. There’s no roof work involved. See what happens during installation.
Interested in solar panels too?
Our practical guide to solar panels and the solar panels grant guide explain your options.