.png)
With rising energy prices and a growing push for sustainability, solar panels have become an attractive investment for UK homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills and lower their carbon footprint. But one of the key considerations when thinking about solar panel installation is the cost and how to finance it. In this blog, we’ll break down the average cost of solar panels in the UK, along with the different ways homeowners can pay for solar panel installation to make this green investment more accessible.
What Is the Average Cost of Solar Panels in the UK?
The cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the system, the type of panels chosen, and the complexity of the installation. However, here’s a general breakdown of the average costs you can expect for a typical solar panel installation in the UK:
Small Systems (1-2 kW): £1,800 - £3,500These are usually enough to power small homes or flats, and they tend to be the cheapest option.
Medium Systems (3-4 kW): £3,500 - £6,500This is the most common system size for UK homes and provides a good balance between cost and power generation. It’s typically suitable for most family homes.
Large Systems (5-6 kW): £6,500 - £8,000These systems are ideal for larger homes or those with higher energy demands. They provide more electricity and can offset a larger portion of your energy bill.
These figures include the cost of the panels, inverter, and installation. However, prices can fluctuate depending on factors such as the quality of the system, the complexity of the installation (e.g., roof type, accessibility), and regional price variations.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Solar Panels?
Several factors can influence the final price of solar panel installation:
System Size: Larger systems will naturally cost more, but they also generate more power, potentially leading to greater savings over time.
Panel Quality: There are different types of solar panels (monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film), with varying efficiencies and costs. Monocrystalline panels, for example, tend to be more efficient and expensive, while polycrystalline panels are more affordable but less efficient.
Roof Type and Condition: If your roof is difficult to access or needs repairs before installation, the costs could increase. A sloped roof is typically cheaper to install panels on than a flat roof.
Inverter Choice: The inverter is a crucial part of the solar system, as it converts the solar power into usable electricity. High-quality inverters can increase the overall system cost but may be more reliable and efficient in the long term.
Installation Costs: Labour costs can vary depending on the complexity of the installation. Some companies may charge additional fees for travel or extra services like scaffolding.
Incentives and Grants: Government schemes like the ECO4 (Energy Company Obligation) or the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) can help reduce the overall cost by offering financial support or rebates for solar installations.
How You Can Get Solar Panels for Free!
The Free Solar Panel Offer: How Does It Work?
In the past, the idea of installing solar panels seemed like an expensive investment, but that’s changing fast. Thanks to new government initiatives and partnerships with solar providers, many companies are now offering free solar panels to homeowners through schemes that require no upfront payment. These programs are often backed by agreements where the homeowner allows the solar provider to install the panels at no cost in exchange for a share of the energy savings or a long-term lease agreement.
Here’s how it works:
No Initial Cost: The solar company covers the full cost of installing the solar panels on your roof.
Energy Savings: You use the electricity generated by the panels to power your home, cutting your energy bills dramatically.
Payment to Solar Provider: In some cases, you may pay a small monthly fee to the provider or agree to share a portion of the savings from your reduced energy bills. In other cases, you can get solar panels for free and pay nothing at all.
This means that with the right scheme, you can reduce your carbon footprint, lower your monthly energy bills, and enjoy clean, renewable energy—all without spending a penny upfront.
How Much Can You Save?
The amount you save on your energy bills with free solar panels depends on several factors, including the size of your home, your energy usage, and the amount of sunlight your roof receives. On average, homeowners can save anywhere from £200 to £400 per year on electricity, and in some cases, savings can be even higher.
Here’s how the savings can add up:
Lower Monthly Energy Bills: With solar panels, you can cut down on the amount of electricity you need to buy from your energy supplier.
Energy Independence: By relying on solar energy for your day-to-day power needs, you’re less affected by rising energy prices, which can be a huge advantage as the cost of traditional electricity continues to climb.
Increased Savings Over Time: If you’re paying a small lease or service charge for the solar panels, the energy savings can quickly offset this cost, making your solar energy effectively free.
Over time, as your solar panel system continues to generate free electricity, you’ll find that the only costs you’re paying for are minor maintenance or service fees—far less than what you would pay for your regular energy bills.
What Are the Benefits of Free Solar Panels?
Zero Upfront Costs: The most significant benefit is that you don’t have to pay anything upfront to install solar panels. No long-term loans or large initial investments are required. You simply benefit from the installation and savings without the financial burden.
Lower Energy Bills: As soon as the solar panels are installed, you’ll start reducing your dependence on traditional energy suppliers. Even with the smallest contribution to the service or maintenance fees, you will notice significant savings on your monthly energy bills.
Increase Your Home’s Value: Homes with solar panels are in high demand. If you decide to sell your home in the future, the value of your property could increase, thanks to the eco-friendly features and lower energy costs associated with solar energy.
Help the Environment: By going solar, you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint, which is a great way to contribute to a greener planet. Solar power is renewable, and by using it, you’re helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions and the reliance on fossil fuels.
Energy Security: With solar panels on your roof, you're protected against the volatility of traditional energy prices. Solar energy offers the stability of renewable energy—prices that won’t fluctuate dramatically every year.
To qualify for free solar panels, you typically need to meet certain eligibility criteria, such as having a suitable roof for installation and being a homeowner.
Click below to find out if you can get FREE Solar Now.
How Can Homeowners Pay for Solar Panels?
While the upfront cost of solar panels can seem daunting, there are a variety of ways homeowners can pay for them, making the investment more manageable. Let’s take a look at some options:
Pay Upfront (Cash Purchase)
Paying for solar panels upfront is the simplest option, where homeowners purchase the system outright. While the initial cost is higher, this option comes with several advantages:
No Monthly Payments: You own the system outright, so you’re not tied to any ongoing payments.
Return on Investment (ROI): Solar panels can start paying for themselves within 7–10 years through energy savings, after which the electricity they produce is essentially free.
Increased Property Value: Homes with solar panels typically have a higher resale value, so the investment could provide a return when you sell the property.
Drawback: The upfront cost can be high, which may be prohibitive for some homeowners, especially if you don’t have the cash available.
Solar Panel Loans
If you can’t afford to pay upfront, a solar panel loan may be a good option. With a solar loan, homeowners borrow the money to install the system and repay it in monthly instalments. Many financial institutions offer loans specifically for home improvements, including solar installations.
Affordable Monthly Payments: Loans spread the cost of solar installation over several years, making it more affordable.
Keep the Energy Savings: While you’re paying off the loan, the energy savings from the solar panels can help offset the monthly repayments.
Drawback: You’ll still need to repay the loan, but with interest. It’s important to make sure the monthly repayments are manageable for your budget.
Solar Lease or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
A solar lease or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) allows homeowners to install solar panels without any upfront costs. In these agreements, a third-party solar provider owns and maintains the panels, and you pay a fixed monthly fee or buy the electricity the system generates at a predetermined rate.
No Initial Investment: With a lease or PPA, you don’t have to pay upfront for the solar panels. Instead, you pay a fixed monthly fee, often lower than your current energy bill.
Maintenance Included: The provider is responsible for maintaining the panels, saving you the cost of repairs and upkeep.
Drawback: Over time, the total cost of the lease or PPA can add up, and you won’t own the system at the end of the agreement. Additionally, some PPAs can involve complicated terms and price escalations.
Green Home Improvement Grants and Incentives
Various government schemes and grants, such as the ECO4 scheme, provide financial assistance to help homeowners with the cost of installing solar panels, particularly for those on low incomes or in vulnerable situations.
Financial Support: Grants can cover part of the cost, reducing the amount you need to pay out of pocket.
Energy Efficiency: Many of these schemes focus on improving the overall energy efficiency of homes, so installing solar panels may also lead to additional improvements.
Drawback: Eligibility for these grants is typically restricted to certain income brackets or vulnerable groups, and the amount of financial support can vary.
Solar Finance Schemes (Hire Purchase)
Some solar companies offer hire purchase schemes, where homeowners can spread the cost of their solar system over a set period (e.g., 5 years) with fixed monthly payments. At the end of the period, the homeowner owns the system outright.
Fixed, Affordable Payments: Spread the cost over time with predictable monthly payments.
Full Ownership: Once the payments are completed, you own the system and can benefit from free energy for many years.
Drawback: The total cost may end up being higher due to interest charges, so it’s important to review the terms carefully.
Conclusion: Making Solar Panels Affordable for Everyone
The cost of solar panels in the UK has come down significantly over the past decade, and there are various ways for homeowners to finance the installation. Whether you pay upfront, take out a loan, or opt for a lease or PPA, there’s a solution to fit your financial situation.
While the initial investment may seem high, the long-term savings, coupled with government incentives and grants, make solar panels an increasingly viable option for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills, increase property value, and contribute to a greener future.
With the energy market set to rise in the coming years, now is the perfect time to consider solar panels as a smart financial and environmental investment.
Can We Help In Your Area?
Click your region to find out:
Solar Installation Cost for a 3-Bedroom House (4kW System)
Materials Costs
Solar Panels: £2,000 to £3,200
(This is the main cost for the solar panels that will generate electricity for your home.)
Inverter: £600 to £1,600
(The inverter converts the solar power from DC to AC, which is used in your home.)
Mounting Hardware: £300 to £1,200
(This includes the rails and fixtures to attach the panels to your roof.)
Batteries (optional): £3,000 to £6,500
(If you choose to add energy storage, you can store excess power for use later, such as at night.)
Electrical Components: £300 to £600
(This includes wiring, junction boxes, and other electrical components necessary for the system.)
Additional Costs
Permitting & Licensing: £60 to £1,200
(You may need to pay for local permits or inspections required to install the system.)
Financing Fees: 2% to 5% of total cost
(If you finance the system, there may be additional charges for payment processing.)
Labour Costs
Site Assessment & Design: £130 to £600
(A site survey and system design to ensure the solar system is correctly sized for your home.)
Installation: £650 to £2,000
(The cost of installing the system, including all electrical work, panel placement, and roof work.)
System Testing & Commissioning: £130 to £300
(After installation, the system will be tested to ensure everything works as expected.)
4. Optional Miscellaneous Costs
Electrical Panel Upgrade: £300 to £1,000
(If your existing electrical panel needs upgrading to handle the new system.)
Roof Repairs or Ground-Mounted Systems: £150 to £1,500
(If your roof needs repairs or if you opt for a ground-mounted system instead of roof-mounted.)
Total Cost Estimate (for a 4kW system on a 3-bedroom house)
£5,320 to £16,400
This estimate includes all materials, installation, and optional features like batteries. You may also be eligible for government incentives (such as the Smart Export Guarantee) which can help offset some of the costs. Plus, you'll save on your energy bills over time!
Here's a breakdown of practical strategies to lower your total solar installation expenses:
Take Advantage of Government Incentives & Grants
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): The UK government’s SEG program allows homeowners to sell excess solar power back to the grid, which can help offset the installation cost over time.
Renewable Energy Incentives: Some local authorities may offer grants or additional incentives to encourage solar installation. Research available schemes in your area to take advantage of any financial support.
Choose a Smaller System
Downsize the System: If your energy consumption is not very high, you might not need a full 4kW system. Consider getting a smaller system, such as a 3kW or 2.5kW setup, which would reduce both the material and installation costs.
Energy Efficiency First: Before installing solar, improve the energy efficiency of your home (e.g., insulating walls, windows, and doors, or upgrading to energy-efficient appliances) to reduce overall energy consumption and therefore the size of the solar system needed.
Shop Around for the Best Deals
Get Multiple Quotes: Don’t settle for the first installer you find. Get quotes from multiple solar installation companies to compare prices and service packages. Look for discounts, seasonal promotions, or bulk deals that can lower the overall price.
Buy Panels in Bulk: If possible, work with your installer to source panels or materials in bulk, which may result in a reduced per-unit cost.
Opt for Lower-Cost Components
Panel Type: While monocrystalline panels are the most efficient, they tend to be more expensive. Polycrystalline panels are a more affordable option and still provide good performance.
Inverters: Choose a string inverter instead of microinverters. While microinverters offer better optimization for each panel, string inverters are significantly cheaper and can be ideal for simpler, less shaded roof layouts.
Install Without Battery Storage
Skip the Battery: Solar batteries add a significant amount to the overall cost. If you don’t need to store excess power for later use (for example, if you’re home during the day and use most of the power you generate), you can skip the battery and save a large amount of money.
Consider Adding Batteries Later: If you want a battery in the future, you can always add it later when the technology becomes cheaper or when you’re more financially able to do so.
Take Advantage of Financing Options
0% or Low-Interest Financing: Some solar companies offer financing with low or zero interest. This can reduce the upfront cost and make the installation more affordable in the short term.
Loans or Leasing: Consider solar loans or leasing options that allow you to pay for the system over time, which can make the initial outlay more manageable.
Reduce Labour Costs
Off-Peak Installations: Labour costs can sometimes vary based on the time of year. Consider scheduling your installation during off-peak seasons (e.g., winter months) when installers may offer discounts to fill up their schedules.
Simpler Installations: If you have a straightforward roof (e.g., south-facing, no obstructions), the installation will be quicker and cheaper. Opt for simpler roof designs and avoid complex custom work to reduce labour costs.
Monitor and Maintain Your System
Ensure Proper Maintenance: Regularly clean your panels and monitor their performance. A well-maintained system will last longer, reducing future repair costs and maximizing savings, making the investment more cost-effective.
By combining these strategies, you can significantly reduce the cost of solar installation. The most cost-effective approach will depend on your home’s energy needs, available incentives, and your long-term energy goals. It’s important to balance initial savings with long-term benefits such as energy savings, grid independence, and potential future upgrades (like adding storage).
How Much Can Solar Panels Save The Average UK Home Per Year?
0%Between £50 - £100 per year
0%Between £150 - £200 per year
0%£200+ per year
Here's the maintenance guide for solar panels in a table format:
Task | Frequency | Description |
Clean Your Panels | Once or twice a year (more often in dusty areas) | Use a soft cloth or sponge with mild soap and water to remove dirt and debris. |
Check for Obstructions | Seasonally | Remove leaves, branches, or snow that may block sunlight from reaching the panels. |
Monitor Performance | Every 3 months or as needed | Use the system’s monitoring app to check energy output. Look out for any alerts or performance drops. |
Inspect the Inverter | Once a year | Check the inverter for proper function. Some systems notify you if there’s an issue. |
Professional Check up | Every 3-5 years | Have a professional inspect the system to ensure everything is working well and there’s no wear. |
5 Things to Consider Before Going Solar
Thinking about making the switch to solar energy? It's a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and save on electricity bills. However, before you take the plunge, here are 5 important things to consider to ensure solar is right for you:
1. Your Energy Usage
Understanding how much energy you consume is crucial when choosing the right solar system. The more electricity you use, the larger your system will need to be. Look at your past electricity bills to get an idea of your usage and calculate the potential savings a solar system could provide.
2. Roof Condition
Your roof needs to be in good shape for solar panels to be installed. If your roof is old or damaged, it may need repairs or even replacement before installation. You’ll also need enough space for the panels to be properly installed without shading from nearby trees or structures.
3. Solar System Cost
The initial cost of solar panels can be high, but it’s important to factor in the long-term savings. Consider the full installation cost, including panels, inverters, wiring, and any roof upgrades. Also, look into financing options and government incentives that may help reduce the upfront cost.
4. Location and Sunlight
Your location plays a huge role in the efficiency of a solar system. A south-facing roof with plenty of sun exposure is ideal. Make sure your roof isn't shaded by trees or buildings throughout the day, as this can impact energy generation.
5. Long-Term Savings & ROI
Before committing, it’s important to understand the financial return on investment (ROI). How long will it take for your solar panels to pay for themselves through savings on energy bills? Keep in mind that you may also be eligible to sell excess energy back to the grid, further increasing your savings.
By considering these factors, you can make a more informed decision about whether solar energy is the right choice for you. Ready to make the switch? If so, solar energy can be a smart and sustainable investment for your home!
Why You Need a Solar Battery for Your Solar Panels: Maximizing Efficiency and Savings.
As more homeowners in the UK make the switch to solar power, many are discovering the significant benefits of installing solar panels. While solar panels alone can drastically reduce your electricity bills by harnessing energy from the sun, there’s an even more powerful addition you might want to consider: a solar battery.
A solar battery allows you to store excess energy generated by your solar panels for use at a later time, making your solar energy system far more efficient and versatile. In this blog, we’ll explain why you need a solar battery, how it works with your solar panels, and the benefits it provides in terms of energy independence, cost savings, and environmental impact.
What is a Solar Battery?
A solar battery is a storage device that stores the surplus electricity generated by your solar panels during the day. This energy can then be used when your solar panels are not generating power, such as during the night, on cloudy days, or when your energy demand exceeds the immediate output of your solar system.
Solar batteries are typically made from lithium-ion or lead-acid technology, and the size of the battery you need depends on how much energy you consume and how much excess solar energy you want to store.
Why You Need a Solar Battery for Your Solar Panels
a. Maximize Your Energy Independence
One of the main reasons homeowners install solar batteries is to increase their energy independence. Solar panels generate electricity when the sun is shining, but what happens when the sun sets, or during periods of low sunlight? Without a solar battery, you’ll have to rely on the grid for electricity at night or on cloudy days, which means you could still be paying high electricity bills.
With a solar battery, you can store the energy your panels generate during the day and use it at night. This helps you become less reliant on the national grid, ensuring you have a constant, renewable source of energy no matter the time of day.
By making the most of the energy produced by your solar panels and storing it for later use, you can avoid the costs and environmental impact of using grid electricity, which is typically generated from fossil fuels.
b. Reduce Your Energy Bills Even Further
While solar panels can significantly reduce your electricity bills by generating free energy, the full potential of your system is only realized if you use the energy you produce. Without a solar battery, any excess energy your panels generate during the day is often sent back to the grid, sometimes for very little financial return under schemes like the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
By investing in a solar battery, you can store excess energy instead of exporting it. This stored energy can be used later when you need it most, allowing you to avoid buying expensive electricity from the grid during peak hours (typically in the evening). Over time, this can lead to significant savings on your electricity bills, especially in regions where energy prices are high.
c. Increase the Efficiency of Your Solar System
A solar battery makes your solar system more efficient by ensuring that all the energy generated by your panels is used, rather than wasted. During sunny periods, your panels may produce more electricity than your home requires. Without a battery, this excess energy is exported to the grid, but you may not receive much compensation for it. With a solar battery, the excess energy is stored and used later, allowing you to benefit from 100% of the energy your system produces.
Moreover, batteries can also allow you to manage your energy consumption more effectively. For example, if you’re out during the day and your solar system produces more energy than you need, it’s stored for later use. When you return home in the evening, you can use the energy stored in your battery, avoiding peak rates from the grid.
d. Back-Up Power During Outages
Power outages can happen unexpectedly, and when they do, they can disrupt your life, especially if you rely on electricity for heating, cooking, or working from home. A solar battery provides an extra layer of security by ensuring that you have access to electricity even when the grid is down.
With a solar battery, your home becomes more resilient to power outages. If the grid goes down, your battery can provide power to your home, keeping essential appliances running. This is particularly useful for those living in areas prone to blackouts or for homes that rely on electricity for medical equipment or refrigeration.
e. Reduce Your Carbon Footprint
Solar energy is a clean, renewable source of power, and by installing a solar battery, you can further reduce your carbon footprint. By storing solar energy for later use, you decrease your reliance on fossil fuels, which are the primary source of electricity for the grid. This helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports the UK’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Solar batteries enable you to use 100% renewable energy in your home, rather than relying on grid electricity that may come from non-renewable sources like coal or gas. In addition to saving money, you’re also helping to create a greener, more sustainable future for everyone.
Benefits of Adding a Solar Battery
a. Energy Flexibility
With a solar battery, you have the flexibility to use your solar energy whenever you need it. You can store energy for use at night, during bad weather, or when your energy demand is high. This provides greater control over your energy usage and ensures you're getting the most out of your solar system.
b. Increased Property Value
Homes with solar energy systems, especially those with solar batteries, are increasingly in demand. Many buyers are attracted to the idea of energy independence and reduced utility costs, meaning that installing a solar battery can potentially increase the value of your property. A solar battery makes your home more self-sufficient and sustainable, which is an attractive feature for eco-conscious buyers.
c. Future-Proof Your Energy Supply
With energy prices set to rise in the coming years, investing in a solar battery ensures you’re future-proofing your energy supply. The cost of traditional electricity is expected to continue increasing as the UK transitions to greener energy sources. Solar batteries offer an affordable, stable, and renewable energy supply, helping protect your home from the rising costs of electricity.
How Do Solar Batteries Work?
A solar battery works by storing the excess energy produced by your solar panels. During the day, when your panels generate more energy than you need, the surplus is directed to the battery rather than the grid. When your solar panels aren’t producing energy (such as at night), the stored energy in the battery is used to power your home.
Most modern solar batteries come with smart technology that helps manage energy flow efficiently. Some batteries can be set to charge during off-peak hours, when energy prices are lower, and discharge during peak hours when rates are higher, further enhancing your savings.
Conclusion: Is a Solar Battery Worth It?
While solar batteries come with an upfront cost, the benefits they offer far outweigh the initial investment for many homeowners. By ensuring that you use more of the energy you generate, a solar battery can help you reduce your electricity bills, increase your energy independence, and prepare for potential power outages. Additionally, it makes your home more environmentally friendly by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering your carbon footprint.
If you already have solar panels or are considering installing them, a solar battery is the next logical step in maximizing the efficiency, savings, and resilience of your system. With energy prices on the rise and a growing emphasis on renewable energy, investing in a solar battery is one of the best decisions you can make for your home’s future.
Power Your Home with Solar Batteries: Unlock the Benefits for Homeowners:
As homeowners look for ways to reduce energy costs and increase their sustainability efforts,
are becoming an essential part of the equation. By pairing your solar panels with a solar battery, you can maximize the efficiency and reliability of your energy system. Here are some of the key benefits of installing a solar battery in your home:
Energy Independence
Solar batteries allow homeowners to store excess energy generated by their solar panels during the day and use it at night or during periods of high demand. This reduces your reliance on the grid, giving you more control over your energy usage and bills.
Cost Savings
By storing solar energy, you can minimize your need to purchase electricity from the grid, especially during peak times when energy rates are highest. Over time, this can significantly reduce your monthly electricity bills and help recoup the initial cost of your solar battery investment.
Backup Power During Outages
One of the standout benefits of a solar battery is its ability to provide backup power during grid outages. Whether it's a short-term blackout or a long-lasting power failure, your solar battery ensures that your essential appliances and lights stay on, keeping your home safe and comfortable.
Increased Home Value
Homes equipped with solar energy systems, including batteries, are often more attractive to buyers. With the growing focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, installing a solar battery can increase your home's market value, making it a great investment for the future.
Environmental Impact
Using solar energy reduces your carbon footprint and helps you contribute to a cleaner, greener planet. By storing and using renewable energy, you’re decreasing your dependence on fossil fuels and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Optimized Solar Energy Use
Without a solar battery, excess solar energy is often sent back to the grid, where it may not always provide you with a return. With a battery, you maximize the use of all the energy your solar panels generate, ensuring that no power goes to waste.
Grid Stability and Support
By storing excess energy and reducing demand on the grid during peak hours, homeowners with solar batteries can help contribute to the overall stability of the energy system. It’s a win-win for both your household and your community!
Feature | Description |
Function | Stores excess solar energy for later use, especially at night or during cloudy days. |
Energy Independence | Reduces reliance on the grid, giving you more control over energy use and costs. |
Backup Power | Provides power during grid outages. |
Cost Savings | Lowers electricity bills by using stored energy during peak times. |
Environmental Impact | Reduces carbon footprint by using renewable solar energy. |
Home Value | Increases home resale value due to sustainable features. |
Battery Lifespan | Typically lasts 10-15 years. |
Types of Batteries | Lithium-ion, lead-acid, saltwater, and flow batteries. |
Efficiency | 85-95% efficiency, depending on the type. |
Warranty | Typically 10 years or more. |
Maintenance | Minimal upkeep, mostly monitoring performance. |
Capacity | Ranges from 5 kWh to 20 kWh, based on energy needs. |
Comments