Home Solar Panels in the UK: Costs, Benefits, and Installation
Rising energy bills and growing climate concerns mean more UK homeowners are turning to home solar panels as a way to cut costs and reduce carbon emissions. Installing solar panels allows you to generate your own clean electricity, save money on bills, and protect yourself from future price hikes.
But how much do home solar panels cost? What benefits can you expect? And how does installation work? This guide covers everything you need to know about solar panels for your home.
What Are Home Solar Panels?
Home solar panels – also known as solar PV (photovoltaic) systems – convert sunlight into electricity that you can use in your household.
Panels are typically mounted on your roof.
An inverter converts the energy into usable electricity.
Any surplus can be stored in a solar battery or exported back to the grid for payment.
They work all year round, even on cloudy days, though generation is highest in the sunnier months.
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How Much Do Home Solar Panels Cost?
| System Size | Roof Space Needed | Avg. Cost (incl. installation) |
|---|---|---|
| 3kW | ~20 m² | £5,000–£6,000 |
| 4kW | ~25 m² | £6,000–£7,500 |
| 5kW | ~30 m² | £7,500–£9,000 |
| 6kW | ~35 m² | £9,000–£11,000 |
| System Size | Electricity Generation (per year) | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| 3kW | 2,500–3,000 kWh | Small homes |
| 4kW | 3,500–4,000 kWh | Average homes |
| 5kW | 4,500–5,000 kWh | Larger homes |
| 6kW | 5,500–6,000 kWh | High usage households |
How Much Can You Save with Home Solar Panels?
Electricity Bill Savings
A typical 4kW system generates around 3,500–4,000 kWh per year, covering the average UK household’s annual electricity usage. This can reduce your bills by £400–£600 per year.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Income
Under the UK’s Smart Export Guarantee, you can sell surplus electricity back to the grid. Depending on your energy supplier, you could earn £100–£200 per year.
Total Savings
Combined, a home solar system can save £500–£800 annually. With panels lasting 25 years or more, the long-term financial benefits are substantial.
Payback Period
Benefits of Home Solar Panels
1. Lower Energy Bills
Generate your own electricity and reduce dependence on the National Grid.
2. Energy Independence
With a solar battery, you can store energy for evening use, cutting reliance on your supplier even further.
3. Environmental Impact
Solar power is renewable and reduces your household’s carbon footprint by 1–1.5 tonnes of CO₂ per year.
4. Property Value
Homes with solar panels often appeal to buyers, potentially increasing property value and improving your EPC rating.
5. Protection Against Rising Energy Prices
By generating your own power, you’re less exposed to volatile market prices.
The Installation Process
Solar panel installation is straightforward and usually takes just 1–2 days.
Survey and Quote: An installer assesses your roof, energy usage, and shading.
System Design: You receive a custom plan with expected output and savings.
Installation: Panels, inverter, and optional battery are installed.
Testing and Certification: The system is tested and MCS-certified.
SEG Registration: You apply to your energy supplier to export surplus power.
Are There Solar Panel Grants in the UK?
While the Feed-in Tariff (FIT) closed in 2019, support is still available:
-
0% VAT on solar panels until 2027 (saves 20% on installation).
-
ECO4 and Home Upgrade Grant (HUG2): Some households may qualify for partial funding.
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SEG payments for exported electricity.
In Scotland, Home Energy Scotland loans and grants are also available.
Is My Home Suitable for Solar Panels?
- A south-facing roof (though east- or west-facing also works).
- Minimal shading from trees or nearby buildings.
- Enough roof space for at least 8–12 panels.
Home solar panels are one of the most effective ways to cut energy bills, increase property value, and reduce environmental impact. With installation costs between £5,000 and £11,000, 0% VAT, and long-term savings of £500–£800 per year, solar panels are a worthwhile investment for UK homeowners.
At SolarPanels.co.uk, we help you explore your options, compare quotes from trusted MCS-certified installers, and find the right system for your home. If you’re ready to generate your own renewable electricity, there’s never been a better time to install home solar panels.