15 Best Solar Panel Installers/Companies UK (2026)

Choosing the right solar panel installer can be a daunting task given the thousands of nationwide and local options available. The challenge lies not only in the sheer number of installers but also in finding one that can deliver a high-quality solar system tailored to your specific needs and timeline.

That's why to simplify this process for you, we've conducted extensive research to identify the 15 top solar panel installers in the UK. We evaluated installers based on factors such as their experience and expertise in the solar industry.

While many other factors were considered, our analysis has resulted in a curated list of the 15 best solar panel installers, highlighting those that meet stringent quality standards and customer satisfaction metrics.

It's also worth mentioning that each installer on our list has been evaluated against key criteria - such as customer service, accreditations and value for money - which we believe will be valuable to you in your decision-making process.

Ready to begin your solar journey? Simply fill out the form below to receive a free, no-obligation solar quote:

Our Top Solar Panel Installers in 2026

Trustpilot scores and review counts in all tables were accurate at the time of data collection: January 16, 2026. Note that these values may change over time.

Best Solar Panel Installers in 2025

Trustpilot scores and review counts in all tables were accurate at the time of data collection: January 16, 2026. Note that these values may change over time.

Solar Panel Installers in 2026 vs 2025 - What's Changed?

As you’ll see, we’ve made a few changes to our list of the best solar panel installers this year. This is not only because new companies have earned strong reputations in the industry, but also to reflect the shifting priorities of our customers and what they’ve told us matters most to them.

In 2025, Glow Green, Effective Home and Project Solar led the way, and they’ve retained their top spots this year for their continued focus on quality, reliability and customer satisfaction. However, 2026 has brought a few new standout performers and shifts in focus that reflect how the UK solar scene is changing.

You’ll see Contact Solar entering the list in 2026, taking the spot for best for commercial installations thanks to their strong performance in large-scale and business projects. Solar Panel Funding has also risen significantly, now recognised as best for solar grants as more people look to make the most of government-backed funding schemes.

Another new addition, So Energy, earns its place for best for quick installation, showing that speed and efficiency have become key decision factors for many households.

It’s also worth noting how Octopus Energy joins the ranks this year as best energy supplier. Their smart export tariffs and seamless solar integration have made them a go-to choice for people looking to maximise savings from solar generation.

While sustainable favourites like Solar4Good and Everyone’s Energy continue to shine for their value and variety, Greener Energy Group appears on the 2026 list for the first time, representing best in Scotland.

Overall, the 2026 solar installer market is more competitive and customer-focused than ever, making it easier for you to find an installer that perfectly fits your needs.

Best Overall - Glow Green

We've crowned Glow Green as the best overall choice in our list of the 15 top solar panel installers in the UK due to their impressive combination of affordability, reliability and comprehensive service offerings. They stand out with their range of high-efficiency solar panels from top brands like Perlight and DMEGC. Plus, Glow Green offer flexible financing options so you can find a solution that fits your budget. With a solid reputation for excellent customer service and a dedication to quality, proven by their MCS and NICEIC accreditations, you can trust Glow Green to guide you through your solar journey.

Good to Know:

✔ In 2025 and 2026, The Independent recognised Glow Green as one of the best solar panel installers in the UK due to industry experience and competitive pricing.

✔ The Federation of Master Builders has also recognised Glow Green as one of the top solar panel installers, specifically praising the company for offering the best range of high-efficiency solar panels available on the market.

✔ UK-wide installer of solar PV, boilers, EV chargers and heat pumps.

✔ Offers up to 30-year PV panel warranty and price match.

✔ MCS, NICEIC and RECC certified.

What Have Customers Said?

"Battery arrived Friday before the install on time. Kept informed what and when the installation was happening. Antonio did an excellent job. Tidied up after the job. Good job done with the extra battery install for our solar panels. Would recommend Glow Green for your solar install and aftercare. Excellent." - Trustpilot

Ready to switch to solar? Get your free, no-obligation solar panel quote with Glow Green today!

Best Customer Service - Effective Home

We recognised Effective Home as the best for customer service because of their dedication to delivering a seamless and professional experience from start to finish. With over 15 years of expertise, they handle every step of the process, from consultation and design to installation and aftercare.

Customers frequently praise their professionalism, efficiency, and well-organized approach with many highlighting the polite and diligent installers who complete work with minimal disruption. Effective Home also offers a 25-year product warranty and a two-year labour warranty which gives you peace of mind alongside their attentive support. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is evident in their excellent Trustpilot reviews where they've received an overall 4.6 out of five stars.

Good to Know:

✔ Offers Hive Solar integration which allows you to monitor energy generation and consumption in real-time via the Hive app.

✔ Provides solar battery options, including SunSynk and Tesla Powerwall 3, for enhanced energy storage.

✔ Includes a free EV charging point installation with solar panel systems for electric vehicle owners.

What Have Customers Said?

"Brilliant. Just had solar panels installed by Effective Home and I could not be more satisfied. From the first approach Kirsty and Barbara were on top with informations and follows up. When Steve and his team came to install the equipment I could not fault the professionalism. Solar panels are not a cheap exercise but you can rest assured that with Effective Home your money is well spent." - Trustpilot

Best Warranties - Project Solar

We've named Project Solar as the best for warranties because they offer you unparalleled protection for your solar investment. They offer a lifetime warranty on select products which ensures long-term peace of mind. This includes a 25-year performance guarantee which promises at least 85% power output after 30 years.

For full-service installations, you'll benefit from their SolarCare™ program, which adds a 10-year workmanship warranty covering installation labour and guaranteeing watertight roof penetrations. They even guarantee a minimum annual production which compensates you if your system doesn't perform as promised.

Good to Know:

✔ Project Solar is the largest installer of residential solar panels in the UK.

✔ They hold numerous industry accreditations including MCS, HIES, NAPIT, ISO, CTSI and BPVA.

✔ Approved installer for SunPower, Tigo and Growatt.

What Have Customers Said?

"A fast and efficient process from quote to install completion. Disruption within my property was minimal and installation staff gave me options on where wiring would run and left work area clean and tidy after work. Staff were polite, informative and kept me updated at every stage. Would highly recommend this company and their team!" - Trustpilot

Best Range of Solar Panels - Solar4Good

We selected Solar4Good for the best range of solar panels due to their impressive variety of high-quality options. You'll find that Solar4Good offers an extensive selection of solar panel brands including industry leaders like JA Solar, Jinko, Trina Solar, Qcells and Fox ESS. This diverse range allows you to choose the perfect panels for your specific needs, whether you're prioritising efficiency, aesthetics or budget.

Solar4Good, founded in 2020, has quickly established itself as a customer-focused solar installer in the UK. They pride themselves on efficient installations, typically completing projects within 10 days or less.

Good to Know:

✔ Offers a 25-year warranty on their solar panel systems.

✔ Provides both residential and commercial solar solutions.

✔ Has over 500 5-star reviews across various platforms.

What Have Customers Said?

"Solar4Good were a great company to deal with, right from the get go. Living in a tudor home meant that we didn’t really have a lot of roof space facing the right direction for solar to be potentially worthwhile the investment. Rahi from Solar4Good was excellent at breaking this down into bite sizes that made the whole process simple to understand. He was never pushy and in fact provided sound advice. His installers and in particular, Fred, was always to the point and clear in how he explained everything. We installed both solar and battery storage and cannot be happier with the product and delivery of service. I would highly recommend this team if you’re considering going green!" - Trustpilot

Best Value for Money - Everyone's Energy

We picked Everyone's Energy as the best value for money due to their commitment to providing high-quality solar installations at competitive prices. With system prices typically ranging from £4,000 to £10,000, Everyone's Energy ensures you get a top-notch solar solution while maintaining cost-effectiveness.

They also pride themselves on efficient installations, typically completing projects within a short time frame. With a strong emphasis on customer service, evidenced by their positive reviews and testimonials, Everyone's Energy offers customisable residential packages to suit various needs and budgets.

Good to Know:

✔ Offers a comprehensive range of renewable energy solutions including solar PV and battery storage.

✔ Provides coverage across the South and Midlands.

✔ Emphasises customer education to help you understand how solar energy works for your home.

What Have Customers Said?

"Outstanding from start to finish. No high pressure sales just good pragmatic guidance. The whole team from sales right through to installation and completion were polite, helpful and professional. A neat and tidy installation. Good job all round. Thank you." - Trustpilot

Best for Commercial Installations - Contact Solar

We selected Contact Solar as the best choice for commercial installations thanks to their extensive experience handling large-scale solar projects across the UK. With a strong reputation built over more than a decade in business, Contact Solar is known for delivering reliable, high-performance solar systems tailored to businesses of all sizes, from small offices to major industrial sites.

Their expertise extends beyond installations, offering full project management that covers design, supply, installation and long-term maintenance. This makes them an ideal partner for companies looking to reduce energy costs and meet sustainability targets.

Contact Solar, established in 2012 and based in Preston, Lancashire, is accredited by MCS and RECC, ensuring professional standards and quality workmanship across every project. Their in-house team of engineers and electricians ensures consistent quality control without subcontracting.

Good to Know:

✔ Specialists in commercial and large-scale solar installations.

✔ Accredited by MCS, RECC and NICEIC.

✔ Competitive pricing model with no sales agents or hidden fees.

✔ Offers maintenance and monitoring packages for long-term performance.

What Have Customers Said?

"From first contact, the whole experience was very professional with helpful with friendly staff. I was kept well informed at all stages of the process. Installers were on time, very pleasant and considerate." - Trustpilot

Best New Solar Installer - Soly

We recognised Soly as the best new solar installer in the UK due to their impressive track record and rapid expansion since entering the market in July 2023. Despite being a newcomer to the British solar scene, Soly brings over a decade of international experience, having served more than 31,000 happy customers globally since its founding in the Netherlands in 2013.

You'll appreciate their commitment to making solar energy accessible to all UK households through a network of trusted local installers accredited by HIES, TrustMark and MCS. Soly's dedication to quality is evident in their use of cutting-edge technology including 435W Tier 1 PV panels with up to 25-year warranties and advanced real-time monitoring systems accessible through their app. Their comprehensive approach covers everything from remote site assessments using innovative satellite technology to efficient installations typically completed within one day for most homes.

Good to Know:

✔ Founded in the Netherlands in 2013, expanded to the UK in July 2023.

✔ Offers a user-friendly online Solar Configurator for personalised quotes.

✔ Aims to complete installations within four weeks of the initial quote request.

What Have Customers Said?

"I had a great experience with Soly from start to end. Initial contact with sales was good. I was advised on a system that fit my needs and budget. I had to delay the installation a couple of times as I needed to get remedial work done on my roof before the panels were installed. Everytime I contacted Soly they were responsive and flexible. Come the actual installation, it went like clockwork. Scaffolding arrived beforehand. Installation team were on time and I was given a message with a precise time of arrival. The team was friendly and the installation went perfectly. My new system was commissioned and we were shown how to use the accompanying phone app. Would definitely recommend and would use again." - Trustpilot

Best for Solar Grants - Solar Panel Funding

We chose Solar Panel Funding as the best for solar grants because of their dedicated focus on helping homeowners access the latest government incentives and funding options. They specialise in connecting UK households with installers offering grant-supported solar systems, making renewable energy more affordable for those who qualify.

Also, their team keeps up to date with evolving schemes, such as ECO4 and other regional energy-efficiency funding programs, ensuring customers don’t miss out on potential savings. By managing the application process from start to finish, Solar Panel Funding makes going solar straightforward, even for those new to renewable technology.

Solar Panel Funding, founded in 2016, works with a trusted network of MCS-accredited installers across the UK. Their transparent approach and customer-first support have earned them consistently high ratings and positive feedback from homeowners.

Good to Know:

✔ Experts in securing government-backed solar grants and funding.

✔ Partners with fully vetted, MCS-accredited installers nationwide.

✔ Straightforward online eligibility checks.

✔ Offers free guidance throughout the application process.

What Have Customers Said?

"I spoke with one of the team members named SAM about their solar energy panels and special scheme, and I was genuinely impressed with the experience. The representative was knowledgeable, patient, and explained everything in simple terms — from installation options to the financial incentives available. Highly recommend reaching out to them if you’re considering switching to solar, their professionalism and clarity made all the difference!" - Trustpilot

Best for Quick Installation - So Energy

We ranked So Energy as the best for quick installation thanks to their efficient and streamlined solar installation process. Backed by their experience as a well-established UK energy supplier, So Energy has built a strong operational network that allows them to complete solar and battery installations faster than many competitors.

Their all-in-one approach covers design, installation and aftercare, making the process seamless for homeowners. Customers can also pair their solar systems with So Energy’s competitive smart export tariff to maximise savings from excess electricity exported back to the grid.

So Energy, founded in 2015 and now part of the ESB Group, combines technical expertise with excellent customer support. Their commitment to sustainability and transparent pricing makes them a trusted choice for homeowners seeking a quick, reliable route to renewable energy.

Good to Know:

✔ Fast installation times, often within 2 to 4 weeks.

✔ Offers solar and battery bundles with smart export tariffs.

✔ MCS-accredited engineers and in-house support team.

✔ Backed by the ESB Group, one of the UK’s leading green energy providers.

What Have Customers Said?

"Competitive price with the possibility of a 0% interest-free loan to install solar panels and batteries. Excellent and regular communication. Efficient installation. Overall, very happy with service." - Trustpilot

Best Solar Subscription Service - Sunsave

We chose Sunsave for the best solar subscription service because of their innovative approach to making solar energy accessible and affordable for UK households. With Sunsave Plus, you can enjoy a hassle-free solar solution with no upfront costs and fixed monthly payments starting at just £69. Their subscription includes installation, 24/7 system monitoring, free replacement parts and a 20-year guarantee covering maintenance, insurance and downtime compensation.

This all-in-one service ensures you save money on energy bills immediately while benefiting from a high-quality solar and battery system tailored to your home. Sunsave’s FCA approval and partnerships with trusted names like Octopus Energy make them a reliable choice for those looking to embrace renewable energy without the financial strain of upfront investment.

Good to Know:

✔ Certified by MCS, HIES, Flexi-Orb and Trading Standards.

✔ Sunsave's mission is to make solar energy accessible to all UK households through their innovative subscription model.

✔ They have partnered with Octopus Energy.

What Have Customers Said?

"Excellent communication throughout the whole process. Very clear information provided and it was easy to communicate with the same member of staff throughout different stages of the process. Staff were always very helpful and knowledgeable. I'm very happy with the company so far and with the installation." - Trustpilot

Best Energy Supplier - Octopus Energy

Octopus Energy was chosen as the best energy supplier due to their innovative approach to renewable energy, transparent pricing and customer-first ethos. Octopus not only provides competitive electricity tariffs for solar-powered homes but also offers some of the most rewarding export rates through their Smart Export Guarantee and Octopus Agile Outgoing tariffs.

Their seamless integration of solar, battery storage and smart energy management technology sets them apart from traditional energy companies. People can also easily monitor and optimise their solar generation and energy use through the Octopus app and compatible smart devices.

Founded in 2015, Octopus Energy has rapidly become a leader in the UK’s renewable energy sector, supplying over 7 million customers. As both a licensed energy supplier and solar installer, they’re uniquely positioned to offer a fully managed green energy experience, from rooftop generation to smart billing.

Good to Know:

✔ Industry-leading export tariffs, including Agile Outgoing and Flux.

✔ Award-winning customer service and transparent pricing.

✔ Offers solar, battery,and EV charging solutions.

✔ Supplies 100% renewable electricity to all customers.

What Have Customers Said?

"I got through to a real person quickly! They were clear and helpful and offered great answers to all my questions about the fairly complex business of batteries, solar etc and which would be the best tariff. They did not drag me through loads of security questions. Altogether the best experience I have had from an energy company." - Trustpilot

Best for Partnerships - Solar Fast

We found Solar Fast to be the best for partnerships due to their groundbreaking collaboration with Wickes - a major player in the UK home improvement sector. The partnership allows Solar Fast to leverage Wickes' extensive retail network and trusted brand reputation which could potentially expanding their customer base.

This partnership also ensures you get access to high-quality solar products, competitive pricing and the convenience of working with a well-established company. Also, Wickes Solar, powered by Solar Fast, provides long-term support including app-based energy monitoring and warranties of up to 30 years on performance and 12 years on batteries and inverters.

Good to Know:

✔ Solar Fast specialises in residential solar panel installations across the UK.

✔ They offer various solar panel systems including options with battery storage.

✔ Over 2022 and 2023, Solar Fast installed more than 3,700 solar projects in customer homes.

What Have Customers Said?

"Great company to deal with, nothing is too much trouble, great communications from very start, explained everything in detail what would happen. It happened just as they said on time. Would highly recommend this company." - Trustpilot

Best for User-Friendly Online Quote - Egg

We found Egg to be the best choice for a user-friendly online quote. You can check your eligibility and receive an initial quote in less than two minutes by completing their quick online questionnaire. This questionnaire starts by asking what type of house you live in, and once you provide your postcode, you are able to drop a pin on the exact location of your roof.

While Egg excels in commercial installations, they're equally adept at handling residential projects. You'll appreciate their commitment to environmental sustainability as evidenced by their 2023 Impact Fifty Award for making a positive difference. They also offer a reassuring 25-year product warranty.

Good to Know:

✔ Egg offers shade-optimised solar panel options for homes that may have partial roof shading.

✔ They provide smart monitoring via a mobile app which allows customers to track their energy generation and usage.

✔ Egg's installation process typically takes around 4 days to complete.

What Have Customers Said?

"Great service from start to finish. Egg provided great guidance on usage, export and battery and what right solution was for me. Install was really quick and Mia managed everything brilliantly. App really easy to interpret." - Trustpilot

Best Savings Calculation - Evergen Solar

We chose Evergen Solar as the best for savings calculations because they hold a Gold Standard membership in the Energy Performance Validation Scheme (EPVS). This scheme is designed to protect you from inflated energy savings figures which ensures you receive reliable information. When you choose Evergen Solar, EPVS manually recalculates and verifies their calculations, guaranteeing that the returns you're promised accurately reflect what your system will deliver. You'll also get a clear picture of how much your panels will save you over the first year and throughout their guaranteed 25-year lifespan.

Good to Know:

✔ Evergen specialises in designing tailored solar panel and battery systems to meet individual customer needs.

✔ They aim to help customers better understand how solar energy works.

✔ Evergen operates out of their headquarters in Maidenhead, UK.

What Have Customers Said?

"Great customer service and very professional from very beginning all the way to the end. Would recommend to anyone." - Trustpilot

Best in Scotland - Greener Energy Group

Greener Energy Group was selected as the best solar installer in Scotland due to their strong regional presence and expertise in renewable home energy solutions. Based in Paisley, they’ve established themselves as a trusted name across Scotland, offering tailored solar panel, battery storage and heat pump installations suited to the local climate and energy needs.

Their team focuses on energy efficiency as a whole-home solution, helping people maximise savings through comprehensive energy assessments and expertly designed systems. With deep knowledge of Scottish building standards and incentives, Greener Energy Group ensures every project is installed to the highest standard.

Founded in 2014, Greener Energy Group is MCS, RECC and TrustMark accredited, reflecting their commitment to quality and professionalism. They’ve helped thousands of Scottish households reduce energy costs and carbon emissions through personalised renewable system designs.

Good to Know:

✔ Specialists in solar, battery and heat pump installations.

✔ Based in Paisley and operates across all of Scotland.

✔ Accredited by MCS, RECC and TrustMark.

✔ Offers tailored energy assessments and free home consultations.

What Have Customers Said?

"Boys did great job installing PV Solar panels and ecoflow battery with inverter. They were respectful of the property and did the job very professionally." - Trustpilot

How We Selected the Best Solar Companies

When choosing the best solar companies, we focused on the things that should matter most to you as a customer. Here’s exactly what we looked at:

• Certification and Accreditation: The first thing you want to check is whether a solar installer is properly certified. Accreditation proves that the company meets strict industry standards and that their work will be carried out safely and effectively. All of the top installers on our list are certified under the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) which means you can trust they follow rigorous technical and quality guidelines. However, While MCS is important, this wasn’t something companies could earn 'extra points' for in our rankings as it’s simply a bottom-line must-have.

• Customer Reviews and Testimonials: Real customer experiences tell you a lot about how a company operates. We looked beyond star ratings to see what customers actually said about installation quality, service and ongoing support. To make our list, companies had to have consistently strong reviews on platforms like TrustPilot, this meant a score of 4 out of 5 or higher with plenty of positive feedback.

• Experience and Expertise: You want an installer with a proven track record. That’s why we considered how long companies have been in the solar industry and whether they’ve managed a variety of projects. The most reliable installers are those that have handled both residential and commercial jobs, showing they can adapt to different situations and keep up with changing technology.

• Quality of Products: The performance of your solar system depends on the quality of the panels and equipment. We highlighted companies that work with top solar panel manufacturers and use high-quality components. This ensures your system will not only be efficient but also last longer, giving you better value over time.

• Transparency and Pricing: Nobody wants hidden fees or unclear quotes. That’s why we focused on companies that are upfront about their pricing and provide you with detailed breakdowns. This makes it easier for you to compare options, understand exactly what you’re paying for and avoid surprises down the line.

• Warranty: We looked closely at the warranties each installer offered on both their solar panels and installation work. You want to be sure that if something goes wrong, you’re protected. Strong warranties show the company stands behind their product and work.

• Range of Services Provided: We considered whether installers offered more than just solar panel installations. Companies that can also install related technologies, like heat pumps or battery storage, stand out. This means you can build a full home energy system with one trusted provider, which makes planning and future upgrades easier and more efficient. Having all these options with one installer can save you time and hassle down the line.

• UK Coverage: We looked carefully at how widely each solar company operates across the UK. Companies with national or broad regional coverage were awarded higher ratings because they can serve all our readers. That said, we didn’t overlook excellent local installers as many deserve consideration and can offer more personalised service.

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. Nevertheless, here are some factors to consider when choosing a solar panel installer:

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. As previously mentioned, all 15 installers in our list are MCS-certified and have many years in the industry.

An experienced installer will also 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 so you have 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 to 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.

Our Top Regional Solar Panel Installers

As we were researching the best solar panel installers, many regional options came up that we believed were worth highlighting. The below information might be especially useful if you're set on choosing a more local installer who understands the specific needs of your area.

We've also made sure not to repeat any installers already listed in the previous table so you can have even more options to consider when selecting the right expert for your solar panel installation.

Google Rating in above table was accurate at the time of data collection: September 4, 2025. Note that these values may change over time.

How to Find a Local or Regional Installer Near You

1. Use Online Directories: Visit directories to find certified local installers.

2. 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.

3. Search Regional Keywords: Use Google to look up terms like 'solar panel installer (your city/region)' or 'solar installer near me' to narrow down the results.

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: Installing solar panels requires specific technical knowledge that certified installers possess. They know how to size your system to your energy needs, choose appropriate equipment, verify if your roof can handle the weight and correctly wire the system into your home's electrical network.

• Certification Requirements: Although you can legally install solar panels yourself, a certified electrician must connect the system to the grid. Without proper certification, you risk losing eligibility for government incentives like the SEG.

• Warranty Considerations: Many manufacturers’ warranties are only valid if certified professionals perform the installation. Installing the panels yourself could void these warranties, leaving you unprotected if problems arise.

• Long-Term Performance: Professional installers optimise panel placement and angle to maximise efficiency. They have the tools and expertise to test the system thoroughly, ensuring it performs well from day one.

• Safety Concerns: Installing solar panels involves risks such as working at heights and handling electrical components. Certified installers have the necessary training and equipment to ensure a safe installation, preventing accidents like falls or electrical shocks.

• Time and Effort: Solar panel installation can be complex and time-consuming. While it could take you several weekends, a professional team can often complete the job within a day or two.

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.

15 Best Solar Panel Installers FAQs