How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in the UK? (Prices in 2026)

In 2026, the cost of solar panel installation typically falls within the range of £4,000 to £7,000. However, this price varies based on several factors including the size of your home (such as the number of bedrooms) and the specific brand of solar panels chosen.

While these upfront costs may seem steep, the potential long-term savings are substantial, potentially ranging from £761 to £1,901 depending on current energy usage, the capacity of the system and the initial investment.

Also, with government incentives and solar grants available, the overall cost of installation can be much easier to manage. Plus, solar panels have become more affordable in recent years, making now an excellent time to invest.

Curious about the cost of going solar for your home? Simply fill out the form below to receive a free, instant solar panel quote:

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?

At Glow Green, the cost of solar panel installation typically falls within the range of £4,000 to £8,000. This price varies based on several factors including the size of your home (such as the number of bedrooms), the specific brand of solar panels chosen and whether you're opting for solar battery storage.

To help you estimate your expenses, the table below outlines pricing based on the number of bedrooms in a semi-detached house, the number of panels required, the chosen panel brand (DMEGC or Perlight) and the cost including battery storage:

Please note that prices are subject to change so it's important to confirm with us for the most current pricing information.

It's important to point out that larger systems for homes with higher energy needs will naturally incur higher costs. Location also plays a role, areas with more sunlight may require fewer panels to meet energy demands, while regions with less sun could need more panels, increasing the overall expense.

What Affects the Cost of Solar Panels?

As we've already mentioned, when it comes to the cost of solar panels, several factors can influence the overall price you’ll pay. Understanding each can help you plan your investment effectively.

Here are the key factors to consider:

Types of Solar Panels

When considering solar panels for your home, it helps to understand the main types available and how they differ. Each type has its own benefits in terms of efficiency, appearance, durability and cost. Knowing these differences will help you choose the best solar panels to match your specific needs:

System Size

Choosing the right size for your solar panel system is crucial to meeting your household energy needs and maximising your savings. The table below shows common system sizes for different household types along with the typical electricity savings you can expect and estimated cost range:

Please note that prices are subject to change so it's important to confirm with us for the most current pricing information.

Solar Battery Storage

Adding a solar battery to your solar panel system is entirely up to you and is not a requirement. While solar panels alone can significantly reduce your electricity bills, a battery allows you to store extra energy generated during the day for use at night or during power outages, which could add to your savings.

One popular option on the market is the Tesla Powerwall 3. However, it comes with a higher cost compared to many other battery brands.

Installation Complexity

If your roof is difficult to access or requires additional structural work, installation costs can rise due to increased labour and time requirements.

Location

Where you live in the UK can make a noticeable difference to the cost of installing solar panels. For example, installation costs in London tend to be higher, mainly due to greater labour rates and higher demand.

On the other hand, places like Cardiff generally have slightly lower costs, thanks in part to competitive local installer rates.

Solar Grants and Incentives

Government schemes and solar incentives can reduce costs significantly:

Additional Components

Items like inverters, monitoring systems or mounting equipment contribute to the total cost of your solar panel setup.

Are Solar Panels More Affordable Now?

Solar panels are more affordable now than they have been in the past. The cost of solar panel systems has decreased significantly due to advancements in technology, government policies and rising energy prices.

As a result, now is one of the best times to consider investing in solar, since the initial costs are lower and the potential savings and benefits are higher.

The table below presents the most recent official data from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero for the 2024/25 financial year. It highlights changes in solar panel costs, current trends and what these developments mean for you:

The below table shows how the average cost of installing small-scale solar panel systems in the UK has changed between 2013/14 and 2024/25. Over time, the average price per kilowatt (kW) has fallen for all system sizes once inflation is taken into account. Smaller installations between 0-4 kW have consistently cost more per kW than larger systems, but both have become more affordable overall:

The table below shows how the average cost of installing small-scale solar panel systems in the UK has changed between 2013/14 and 2024/25. You can see how prices have moved year by year for two system sizes - 0–4 kW and 4–10 kW - along with major events and market factors that caused these changes. The trend reflects how policies, demand and global events such as the energy crisis and Covid-19 have influenced installation costs over time:

Please note that the information presented above has been sourced from the official Government website of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Cutting Solar Panel Costs

There are many ways to reduce the upfront and ongoing costs of installing solar panels to make your investment more affordable. However, let's first take a look at the typical savings you can achieve by lowering your electricity bills with solar:

Electricity Savings

The amount of money you can save with solar panels varies significantly based on several key factors. For instance, the size of your solar panel system plays a crucial role. Larger systems generate more electricity which can lead to greater savings as this reduces your reliance on the grid.

Your energy consumption habits are also important. If your household uses a lot of electricity, solar panels can help offset these costs more effectively. Factors like electricity rates and whether you choose to add solar battery storage can also impact your overall savings.

The below table represents typical reductions in electricity bills depending on your household size and solar system capacity. As we've already mentioned, larger homes with bigger systems tend to save a higher percentage of their electricity costs with solar panels due to greater energy generation and usage alignment:

Please note that the savings shown above can vary based on your individual circumstances, such as your energy usage, electricity rates and system orientation.

To get a precise estimate of how much money you could save with solar panels, consider using the Energy Saving Trust’s Solar Panel Calculator which can provide personalised estimates.

How Payback Periods Affect Costs

The payback period for solar panels refers to the time it takes for your savings on energy bills to offset the initial cost of installation. For residential systems in the UK, this is typically around 5 to 7 years, while commercial systems often have a shorter payback period, with many businesses recouping their investment in just 1 to 3 years on average.

However, it’s important to note that the actual payback period can vary significantly depending on several factors. These include:

• System Size: Larger systems may generate more savings but also come with higher upfront costs.

• Energy Consumption: The more energy you use, the greater your potential savings.

• Electricity Rates: Higher energy prices can shorten the payback period by increasing your savings.

• Solar Panel Efficiency: More efficient panels produce more energy, improving your return on investment.

• Government Incentives: Grants can reduce upfront costs and shorten the payback time.

• Location: Areas with more direct sunlight will generate more energy, speeding up cost recovery.

The table below shows a simplified yearly payback calculation for residential solar panels. It breaks down the estimated financial benefits and costs year by year to help you see when your solar investment might start turning a profit.

Each year’s discounted benefits represent the electricity savings from your solar panels, whereas the cumulative benefits shows the total amount you've saved since installation. The cashflow column shows how much money you are effectively gaining or still needing to recover each year.

Cumulative Costs stays at £7,947 throughout as it's the initial cost of installing the solar panels.

By around year 6, you can expect your solar panels to pay back their initial cost, and after that, you start saving money overall. Keep in mind that actual payback periods vary based on your system size, energy usage, local electricity prices and available incentives:

Getting a Grant to Help Pay for Solar Panels

Another effective way to cut down the cost of installing solar panels is by applying for grants or taking advantage of government incentives. There are several options available that can help lower your upfront expenses or provide ongoing financial benefits.

Below is a list of some key solar grants and incentives to consider that might apply to your home and situation:

• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): This scheme lets you earn money by selling any excess electricity your solar panels generate back to the grid through tariffs offered by energy suppliers. If you own an MCS-certified solar system, you're eligible for SEG. While SEG isn't a grant, the extra income you receive for unused solar energy gradually helps to offset your electricity costs, making your overall solar investment more affordable over time.

• Energy Company Obligation 4 (ECO4): ECO4 is a government-backed programme designed to help low-income and vulnerable households make their homes more energy efficient. Under this scheme, eligible homeowners and some tenants can receive full or partial funding towards solar panel installation and other upgrades, like insulation or heating systems. ECO4 can significantly lower the upfront cost of going solar, making it accessible if you meet certain criteria, such as receiving qualifying benefits.

• 0% VAT on Solar Panel Installation: The UK government currently offers a 0% VAT rate for residential solar panel installations. This means you don’t pay any VAT on your solar system, directly reducing the purchase and installation price. This applies to all residential buyers, making it easier for you to manage the initial investment and enjoy quicker payback.

• Warm Homes Local Grant: Targeted at low-income households, social housing tenants and some renters in England, this grant provides funds for energy efficiency improvements, including solar panels. Securing a Warm Homes Local Grant can help cut the cost of solar installation and make it more affordable for those who might struggle to pay the full price upfront.

• Solar Together (Bulk-Buying Scheme): Solar Together is a group-buying scheme operated by local authorities in some regions. By joining with other homeowners, you benefit from lower prices due to bulk purchasing. This can make installing solar panels much cheaper compared to buying individually, resulting in significant savings on installation.

• Home Energy Scotland Loan: If you’re a homeowner in Scotland, you could take advantage of an interest-free loan to cover the cost of solar panels, solar thermal or hybrid solar technologies. This loan spreads payments over time with no interest added, making it easier to manage costs up front and pay gradually according to what suits your budget.

For ease, here’s a summary of the information presented above in a table:

Can I Get Solar Panels on Finance?

Another way to help with the initial cost of solar panels is by getting solar panels on finance. There are many options available, and ultimately the right choice depends on what’s available to you and what fits your situation best.

Understanding the key differences between financing options will help you find the solution that works for your needs:

Of course, each option has trade-offs, so consider your financial situation, credit status and long-term plans to pick the best fit. If in doubt, consulting a finance expert can help clarify your choices.

How to Maximise Your Savings with Solar Panels

By following a few simple but effective strategies, you can maximise your savings with solar panels. The table below outlines key actions you can take to help get the most out of your solar energy setup:

Are There Maintenance Costs for Solar Panels?

Solar panels require very little maintenance which make them a hassle-free investment for your home. Most of the time, all they need is occasional cleaning to remove dirt or debris, which you can easily do yourself with a hose or soft brush.

With a typical lifespan of 25 to 30 years, solar panels are built to last, so you won’t need to worry about frequent repairs or replacements. The only component you may need to replace during this time is the inverter which usually lasts around 10 to 15 years. This could cost you around £500 to £1,500.

How Much Do Solar Batteries Cost?

Solar batteries allow you to store excess energy generated by your solar panels during the day so you can use it in the evening or on cloudy days. This can help you rely less on the grid, lower your electricity bills and increase your energy independence.

The cost of solar batteries in the UK can vary a lot depending on the size, brand and the complexity of the installation.

For example, a Tesla Powerwall 3 with 13.5 kWh of storage typically costs around £8,500 for the battery alone. In comparison, a GivEnergy All In One 13.5 kWh battery and inverter could cost about £5,500. Smaller solar batteries may be available from as little as £1,500, but they store less energy and offer lower capacity.

Several factors influence the final price you pay. For instance, lithium-ion batteries, which are highly efficient and last longer, tend to have a higher upfront cost. Also, picking a well-known brand with a strong warranty and better performance can obviously affect the cost.

Is Solar Energy the Right Choice for Your Home?

Most people in the UK can benefit from installing solar panels because they help lower your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. Solar energy is a great way to save money while also doing something positive for the environment. However, solar panels are especially a good choice for your home if:

• You use a lot of energy during the daytime when solar panels are generating electricity. This means your panels can directly power your home, saving you from buying as much electricity from the grid.

• Your property is suitable for solar installation. This usually means having a roof that faces south with minimal shading from trees or buildings, so your panels receive plenty of sunlight.

• You’re looking to invest in your property for the long term. Adding solar panels can potentially increase your home’s value and provide savings for many years to come.

If you're unsure about installing solar panels, it’s a good idea to speak with one of our solar experts. They can review your specific situation, discuss your options in detail and provide you with a free, no-obligation solar quote tailored to your home.

Are Solar Panels Worth It?

Whether solar panels are worth it ultimately depends on your personal circumstances and priorities. They can be a great investment, offering significant savings on energy bills while reducing your carbon footprint. For a typical UK home, solar panels can save hundreds of pounds annually and potentially pay for themselves within 5 to 7 years, depending on factors like system size, energy consumption and electricity rates.

Also, over their lifespan, the savings can far outweigh the initial costs, especially if you take advantage of grants or incentives like the Smart Export Guarantee.

Ultimately, solar panels are definitely worth it if you have the funds available and want to reduce your electricity bills while making a positive impact on the environment.

Solar Panel Cost Calculator

Our solar installation cost calculator is an easy-to-use tool designed to simplify the process of understanding your installation costs.

By entering basic details like the number of panels and your location, you'll receive an estimate of total costs and projected energy output. Whether you're interested in reducing utility bills or embracing sustainable practices, our calculator offers straightforward insights to help you make informed decisions about solar installation.

*Please note that the Solar Panel Cost Calculator is intended for estimation purposes only. While the calculator uses reasonable assumptions and adjustment factors, it may not reflect the exact cost or output of a real-world solar panel installation. It is important to understand that the calculator's results are estimates and should not be used as the sole basis for making financial decisions.

Solar Panel Prices FAQs