Written by Beth Howell Updated on 16 August 2022 Chancellor Rishi Sunak has said today that homeowners will pay 0% VAT on energy saving materials, such as solar panels or heat pumps, for the next five years.The news comes as part of the Spring Statement, and applies to the installation of the following energy saving materials:Solar panelsGround source heat pumpsAir source heat pumpsInsulationControls for central heating and hot water systemsDraught strippingMicro combined heat and power unitsWood-fuelled boilersEnergy saving materials are currently subject to a VAT rate of 20%. However, installations are subject to a reduced 5% VAT rate for people on certain benefits, or if the cost of the products/materials is not over 60% of the cost of installation.By removing the VAT, the government could help incentivise Brits to buy low-carbon tech, which will not only reduce energy bills, but also shrink household carbon emissions.You can find out more information about VAT rates for solar panels on our page. Why is the government scrapping VAT on energy saving materials?This is part of a wider mission to help households during the energy crisis. By investing in solar panels or heat pumps, Brits could cut back on gas and electricity bills.Solar panel costs have dropped by a whopping 50% since 2011, and could save homeowners £608 a year on energy bills – or £7,349 over 25 years.Although this new legislation will be useful for people who have a few thousand pounds to spare, it’s not likely to help those who are really struggling during the energy crisis.It’s been estimated that 6.32 million households could be pushed into fuel poverty as a result of the latest price cap rise from 1 April 2022.These millions of people who are struggling to power their homes won’t be able to fork out a few thousand pounds to buy solar panels or heat pumps – even with VAT knocked off. Written by: Beth Howell Content Manager Beth has been writing about green tech, the environment, and climate change for over three years now – with her work being featured in publications such as The BBC, Forbes, The Express, Greenpeace, and in multiple academic journals. Whether you're after a new set of solar panels, energy-saving tips, or advice on how to reduce your carbon footprint, she's got you covered.