Changes to VAT zero rating imminent
HMRC has announced an extension to the materials qualifying for the VAT zero rate from 1 February 2024. What’s the full story?

The government often uses tax policy to encourage the use of energy efficient/otherwise environmentally friendly technologies. Currently, the purchase of certain energy-saving materials (ESM) is zero rated for VAT until 31 March 2027, at which point it is due to revert to the reduced VAT rate of 5%. Following a consultation, the list of materials qualifying for the zero rate has been extended to include the following from 1 February 2024:
- Electrical battery storage that is retrofitted to a qualifying ESM (currently this is only available if the battery is fitted at the same time as the ESM).
- Installation of electrical battery storage as a standalone technology connected to the grid.
- Water-source heat pumps; and
- Diverters retrofitted to ESMs such as solar panels and wind turbines.
The zero rate will also apply to the installation of some groundworks that are required for the installation of heat pumps. These works will be specifically defined in the legislation.
Further information on the outcome of the consultation can be found here.
Related Topics
-
Leasing goods to a connected business
Your business owns assets that are leased to a connected business and you charge a monthly fee plus VAT. Is there a risk that HMRC could take action by issuing a so-called “Schedule 6 notice”?
-
Hidden MTD news in Spring Statement documents
Chancellor Rachel Reeves kept her pledge that there would be no more tax rises at the Spring Statement, but there are some important Making Tax Digital developments hidden away in the tax related documents. What do you need to know?
-
SDLT increases - what’s the latest?
If you’re in the market to buy a property, changes to stamp duty land tax (SDLT) are about to increase the cost. When will the new rates apply and which types of purchase are affected?