Best Solar Panel Installers UK

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Last Updated on 3rd September 2024

Top 10 Best Solar Panel Installers In The UK


Installing solar panels can be one of the best investments you make for your home. However, finding the right solar panel installer is key to ensuring you maximise the return on investment and long-term performance of your PV system.

With a rapidly growing market and numerous options available, selecting an installer can feel overwhelming. Opting for the wrong company can lead to subpar installations, unexpected costs and systems that fail to perform as expected.

To simplify this process for you, we've meticulously reviewed a wide range of solar installation companies across the UK. Our analysis has resulted in a curated list of the top 10 solar panel installers, highlighting those that meet stringent quality standards and customer satisfaction metrics.

These MCS-certified companies cater to households throughout the UK and boast a minimum of 8 years of experience in the industry. While these credentials are significant, we have also taken into account their pricing, warranties, insurance coverage and customer reviews to provide a comprehensive evaluation. Let's take a look:

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot ReviewsTrustpilot Score
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,9084.5
2. Project Solar⭐⭐⭐⭐5,0994.7
3. Effective Home⭐⭐⭐⭐2,2514.4
4. Evergen Solar⭐⭐⭐7764.2
5. Evergreen Power Solar⭐⭐⭐4474.2
6. Geo Green Power⭐⭐⭐1084.6
7. Empower Energy⭐⭐⭐694.8
8. Joju Solar⭐⭐⭐444.7
9. Naked Solar⭐⭐⭐144.4
10. Chiltern Solar⭐⭐34.0

*Data collected from Trustpilot and is correct as of 28/08/24. Ranking table is based on volume of reviews, review sentiment, review mentions of customer service, expertise, breadth of services offered, coverage area and years of trading.

1. Glow Green

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot Reviews
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,908

With over 12 years of successful trading and more than 50,000 satisfied customers, Glow Green is recognised as one of the UK's leading providers of energy-efficient products including solar PV systems. Our extensive portfolio also features new boilers, air conditioning units, EV chargers, solar batteries and heat pumps.

Our dedicated account managers offer personalised services tailored to each customer's unique needs and our local engineers ensure hassle-free, professional installations. With some of the best warranties and financing options available, along with our commitment to quality and sustainability, it's clear why we, Glow Green, are a leader in the industry.

Key Benefits
Offering the lowest prices in the UK
Long warranties that extend up to 30 years
Free expert advice provided by professionals
Excellent finance options
Highly trained local engineers
Hassle-free installation


2. Project Solar

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot Reviews
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,908
2. Project Solar⭐⭐⭐⭐5,099

Founded in 2011, Project Solar stands as a seasoned veteran in the UK's solar industry having accomplished over 45,000 successful installations across the country. With roots in Australia and a mission of promoting energy independence, Project Solar is synonymous with quality and reliability. Their offerings include an array of solar panels such as the popular monocrystalline type, noted for its efficiency of up to 21.4% and a maximum power output of 445W.

Project Solar provides national coverage.


3. Effective Home

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot Reviews
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,908
3. Effective Home⭐⭐⭐⭐2,251

Effective Home offers you a comprehensive approach to making your home more energy-efficient and sustainable. As one of the UK's leading experts in energy-saving installations, they provide solutions that can reduce your energy bills by up to 70%. You can explore options like solar panels, batteries, EV charging points and home insulation. With over 15 years of experience, Effective Home guides you through the process from design to installation.

Effective Home installs throughout the UK.


4. Evergen Solar

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot Reviews
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,908
4. Evergen Solar⭐⭐⭐776

Evergen Solar is dedicated to making solar energy accessible to every homeowner. With over 12 years of successful installations, they offer you a comprehensive service that includes solar panels and battery storage for both residential and commercial properties. They pride themselves on using premium components and providing a user-friendly experience, ensuring you can easily transition to clean, sustainable energy for your home or business.

Evergen Solar is a nationwide solar panel installer.


5. Evergreen Power Solar

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot Reviews
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,908
2. Evergreen Power Solar⭐⭐⭐447

Evergreen Power Solar, founded in 2013, has transitioned from a family-run operation into one of the UK’s top national solar providers. They're known for combining affordability with quality in their installations and cater to both residential and commercial sectors. The company's small to medium size, with an estimated 10 to 50 employees, allows for personalised attention to your needs

Evergreen Power Solar installs throughout the UK.


6. Geo Green Power

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot Reviews
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,908
6. Geo Green Power⭐⭐⭐108

Established in 2010, Geo Green Power stands out due to its deep commitment to delivering renewable energy solutions tailored specifically to your needs. With a distinct focus on enhancing energy efficiency for both residential and commercial sectors, Geo Green Power ensures you experience significant energy savings. This dedication is backed by a robust 2-year warranty on installations, assuring the longevity and performance of their solar systems.

Geo Green Power is a national installer.


7. Empower Energy

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot Reviews
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,908
7. Empower Energy⭐⭐⭐69

Empower Energy, a proven leader in the solar industry since 2010, specialises in both residential and commercial installations. Their trained team ensures that every setup uses top-tier components, guaranteeing longevity and efficiency. With a customer-centric approach, Empower Energy provides comprehensive solutions, from in-depth design to final installation, dedicated to exceptional service and sustainable results. Their installations boast robust ratings and are backed by comprehensive warranties, ensuring you receive quality, reliability and performance in your solar investments.

Empower Energy provides national coverage.


8. Joju Solar

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot Reviews
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,908
8. Joju Solar⭐⭐⭐44

Founded in 2006, Joju Solar has been at the forefront of solar PV, battery storage and electric vehicle charging solutions for over 18 years. As a customer, you'll benefit from their expertise in designing and installing bespoke systems for homes, businesses, and communities. Joju Solar's commitment to reducing carbon emissions and improving air quality aligns with their vision of a low-carbon, all-electric future for all. They're particularly proud of their work with communities, having built the UK's first community-funded solar project.

Joju Solar serves the UK.


9. Naked Solar

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot Reviews
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,908
9. Naked Solar⭐⭐⭐13

Since its inception in 2011, Naked Solar has focused on transparency and providing top-notch, unbiased advice in solar PV system installation. Their commitment to excellence has garnered them a prestigious reputation, along with numerous awards that rank them as one of the UK's premier solar installers.

Their service region is focused on South West England - Plymouth, Cornwall & Devon.


10. Chiltern Solar

CompanyOur RatingTrustpilot Reviews
1. Glow Green⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐9,908
10. Chiltern Solar⭐⭐3

Chiltern Solar are specialists in domestic solar panel designs and installations. As a renewable energy company, they're committed to providing you with the latest impartial expert advice. Chiltern Solar provides you with a comprehensive service from initial consultation and system design to installation and aftercare. They pride themselves on clear communication which ensures you understand every aspect of your solar project.

Chiltern Solar installs in London as well as home counties including Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Middlesex, Cambridgeshire and Oxfordshire.


How We Selected The Best Solar Panel Companies

When choosing the best solar panel companies for you, we employed a rigorous selection process to ensure you receive top-quality service and products. In fact, we looked at over 100 national and regional solar companies across the county. We explored their histories, offerings, certifications and customer reviews to provide you with a trustworthy ranking of the absolute best options for going solar.

Here's some of the criteria we considered vital in our selection process of the top solar panel installers in the UK:

Certification and Accreditation

When it comes to solar installers, certifications and accreditations are paramount. These credentials not only affirm the installer's legitimacy but also signify adherence to industry standards. Top installers will typically hold certifications from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) which ensures that they meet rigorous quality and technical guidelines. As such, our top 10 solar panel companies are MSC-certified.

Customer Reviews and Testimonials

Your experience matters so we thoroughly examined customer feedback as well as the number of reviews a company had received. While we looked at overall ratings of each installer, we also delved into specific reviews that detailed customer experiences with installation quality, customer service and aftercare support.

Ultimately, using TrustPilot, our best solar companies all had a score of 4 or more [out of 5] with consistent customer reviews that shows the installers meet or exceed expectations.

Experience and Expertise

The experience and expertise of an installer can greatly influence the success of your solar panel installation. Companies with a long-standing presence in the industry are often preferred because they have navigated various technical challenges and adapted to evolving technologies.

With this in mind, we looked at installers that showcase a diverse portfolio of projects, demonstrating their capability across different settings and scales. That is why most of the installers on our list have residential and commercial experience as well as at least 8 years in the industry.

Quality of Products

As a customer, you'll want the best so we focused on installers who use high-quality solar panels and work with reputable manufacturers. This helps ensure your solar system will be efficient and long-lasting.

Transparency and Pricing

We favoured companies that offer clear, transparent pricing and provide detailed quotes. This helps you make an informed decision without any hidden costs or surprises.


How To Choose A Solar Panel Installer

When choosing a solar panel installer, you'll want a partner who offers outstanding service and stands behind their work. While there are many factors to consider when choosing an installer, the choice is a personal one and often depends on your unique preferences. Here's how you can choose the best solar panel installer for your needs:

Find Local Solar Installers

Choosing a local solar panel installer comes with a host of benefits such as having a deeper understanding of your region's unique environmental and regulatory landscape which can speed up the installation process and ensure compliance with local policies. They also typically offer more personalised service which is crucial for a complex technical system like solar panels.

In addition to this, their knowledge of local weather patterns also enables them to recommend and implement solutions that ensure maximum energy generation throughout the year.

By working with a local installer, you're also supporting the local economy and reducing the environmental impact associated with transporting materials over long distances. Ultimately, creating a more environmentally friendly landscape.

Research Experience and Qualifications

When choosing a solar panel installer, you should prioritise companies with extensive experience and solid qualifications. Look for certifications such as those from the MCS and check how long they've been in business. As previously mentioned, all 10 installers in our list are MCS-certified and have at least 8 years in the industry.

An experienced installer will have a track record of successful projects and satisfied customers which ensures your installation is handled professionally. Their expertise can also help you navigate potential issues and optimise your solar system's performance, contributing to a more reliable and efficient energy solution for your home.

Get Multiple Quotes to Compare Costs

It's essential to get multiple quotes from different solar panel installers to compare costs and services. By doing this, you can identify significant price differences and understand what each company offers. This step helps you avoid overpaying and ensures you get a fair deal.

Also, comparing quotes allows you to assess the scope of work, equipment quality and potential additional costs, giving you a comprehensive view of what to expect.

Compare Warranties

Comparing warranties is crucial when selecting a solar panel company as it protects your investment. You should examine the terms of both the equipment and installation warranties offered by different companies. A robust warranty can cover potential defects and installation issues giving you peace of mind.

Typically, solar panels come with a manufacturer warranty of 20-25 years covering defects and performance issues. Also, installers often provide a labour warranty, usually ranging from 5 to 10 years, which covers installation-related problems. You should examine the terms of these warranties carefully and ask your installer any questions if you're unsure.

Verify Insurance Coverage

Before finalising your choice of a solar panel installer, you must verify their insurance coverage. Proper insurance, including liability and employers' liability, protects you from financial liability if accidents or damages occur during the installation process. By verifying insurance coverage, you ensure the installer operates responsibly and professionally, providing extra security for your investment.

Understand the Contract

Before signing any agreement, make sure you fully understand the terms of the contract. Pay attention to details like the timeline for installation, payment schedule and what happens if there are any issues post-installation.

Once again, it's essential to ask questions if you need further clarification on any details.


How To Find A Local Or Regional Installer Near You

  • Use Online Directories: Visit websites like Solar Guide to find certified local installers. Look for installers with high ratings and positive reviews.
  • Ask for Referrals: Talk to friends, family or neighbours who have installed solar panels and ask about their experiences. Check community boards or local social media groups for recommendations.
  • Search Regional Keywords: Use search engines to look up terms like 'solar panel installer (your city/region)' or 'solar installer near me' to narrow down the results. Explore the websites of the companies that appear to understand their services and reputation.

What To Avoid When Choosing An Installer

Since we’ve looked at the key considerations when choosing a solar panel installer, it’s important to also mention the common red flags or potential pitfalls that could lead to a less efficient system or inflated costs:

Extremely Low Prices

If you encounter solar panel installers offering costs significantly below the market average, it should raise a red flag. Often, irresistibly low quotes can be signs of potential compromises in installation standards or the use of inferior-quality materials. Installers who cut corners might initially appear cost-effective but can lead to greater expenses and headaches in the future. These could include inefficiencies in energy production or costly repairs and replacements down the line.

To ensure you're making a wise investment, compare price quotes from several reputable installers. A complete breakdown of costs that includes materials, labour and any additional fees should accompany each quote. This transparency allows you to see precisely how the figures add up helping you avoid any hidden costs.

Overselling And Not Providing Good Advice

Don't be swayed by high-pressure sales tactics that push you to make a quick decision on the spot. Take your time to research and select an installer who offers transparency, a solid track record and is happy to answer any questions you have.

Lack of Proper Certifications

Avoid companies that aren't MCS-accredited and do not prominently display their certifications on their website or are unwilling to provide proof of their qualifications. A reputable installer should have multiple certifications demonstrating their commitment to quality and compliance with industry standards.


Can I Install Solar Panels Myself?

While it's technically legal for you to install solar panels yourself in the UK, it's generally not recommended. Here's why you should consider using a certified installer instead:

Technical Expertise

Solar panel installation requires specific technical knowledge. Certified installers understand how to:

  • Properly size your system based on your energy needs.

  • Select the most appropriate equipment for your situation.

  • Ensure your roof can support the additional weight.

  • Correctly wire the system to your home's electrical network.

Certification Requirements

While you can legally install the panels yourself, you'll need a certified electrician to connect the system to the grid. Without proper certification, your system may not be eligible for government incentives like the Smart Export Guarantee.

Warranty Considerations

Many manufacturers' warranties are only valid if the installation is performed by a certified professional. By installing the panels yourself, you might void these warranties, potentially leaving you unprotected if issues arise.

Long-Term Performance

Professional installers can optimise the placement and angle of your panels for maximum efficiency. They also have the tools to properly test the system ensuring it performs as expected from day one.

Safety Concerns

Installing solar panels involves working at height and dealing with electrical systems. Without proper training and equipment, you could put yourself at risk of falls or electrical shocks. Certified installers have the necessary safety training and equipment to perform the installation safely.

Time and Effort

Solar panel installation is a complex and time-consuming process. What might take you several weekends to complete, a professional team can often finish in a day or two.

While the DIY approach might seem cost-effective initially, the potential risks and long-term implications often outweigh the savings. For these reasons, we strongly recommend using a certified installer for your solar panel system. They can ensure a safe, efficient and compliant installation that will serve you well for years to come.


How Long Will The Installation Take?

Generally, you can expect the actual installation of your solar panel system to take about two days. However, keep in mind that this is just the physical installation process and several factors can influence how long your specific installation might take.

The size of your system plays a significant role - larger systems with more panels may take longer to install than smaller ones. Also, the complexity of the installation can affect the timeline. Challenging roof layouts or the need for additional wiring can increase the installation time. Weather conditions also play a part as inclement weather can delay the process with installers needing safe conditions to work on your roof.

While the physical installation typically takes about two days, the entire process from your initial consultation to the completion of the installation can vary. Pre-installation work often begins a day before the rooftop installation, during which installers may set up scaffolding. The actual fitting of the panels may take a couple of days depending on the factors mentioned above. After the panels are in place, installers will connect the battery system, such as the Tesla Powerwall 3, and demonstrate how to monitor it via an app.

While the installation itself might be quick, the lead time before installation can vary depending on the company's schedule and the availability of system components. It's always best to discuss the specific timeline with your chosen installer to get a clearer picture of what to expect.


Best Solar Panel Installers FAQs

How do I choose the best solar panel installer in the UK?
To choose the best solar panel installer in the UK, you should research multiple companies, check their certifications, read customer reviews, compare quotes and ensure they offer comprehensive warranties.

What certifications should I look for in a solar panel installer?
You should look for installers with MCS accreditation, as well as memberships in organisations like RECC (Renewable Energy Consumer Code) and NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting).

What warranties should I expect from a reputable solar panel installer?
A reputable solar panel installer should offer a workmanship warranty of at least 10 years, in addition to the manufacturer's warranty on the panels and inverter, which typically ranges from 10-25 years.

Can I install solar panels myself in the UK?
While it's legally possible to install solar panels yourself in the UK, it's not recommended due to safety concerns, technical complexities and potential issues with warranties.

How much does it cost to install solar panels in the UK?
The cost of installing solar panels in the UK typically ranges from £5,000 to £6,000 for a typical 4kW system but prices can vary depending on the system size, panel quality, and installation complexity.

How can I get an estimate on how much I will pay for installation?
The best way to get an idea of how much you will pay for installation is to request quotes from multiple solar panel companies. This will give you a clearer understanding of the costs involved and help you compare options.

Are there any government incentives for installing solar panels in the UK?
Currently, the main government incentive for solar panels in the UK is the Smart Export Guarantee which pays homeowners for excess electricity they export to the grid.