Solar Panels

Solar Panels

Everything you need to go solar in 2026 — from costs and brands to installers, grants, and savings calculators.

£5k–£11k
Typical system cost
6–10 yrs
Payback period
25+ yrs
Panel lifespan
£300–£800
Annual savings

Solar Panel Guides

In-depth guides written by our energy experts and reviewed by MCS-certified installers.

💰

Solar Panel Costs Breakdown 2026

Full breakdown of system prices by size, panel type, and region — plus what affects your final quote.

Read the cost guide →
⭐

Best Solar Panel Brands UK

We compare the top panel manufacturers on efficiency, warranty, and value for UK homeowners.

See the best brands →
🔋

Solar Battery Storage

Is a battery worth it? We cover costs, capacity, top brands, and how much more you can save.

Explore battery storage →
📈

Solar Savings Calculator

Enter your roof size, location, and usage to get a personalised estimate of your solar savings.

Calculate your savings →
🔧

Installation Guide

What to expect from survey to switch-on — timelines, scaffolding, DNO notification, and more.

Read the installation guide →
👥

Find Solar Installers

How to choose a trusted, MCS-certified installer and what questions to ask before signing.

Find installers →
📜

Planning Permission

Do you need planning permission? Rules for houses, flats, listed buildings, and conservation areas.

Check the rules →
🏢

Solar for Flats & Apartments

Options for leaseholders and flat owners — shared rooftops, community schemes, and alternatives.

Read the flat guide →

Solar Panels at a Glance

Typical 4kW system
£6,000 – £8,000
Installed, before grants
Annual output
3,200 – 3,600 kWh
4kW system, south-facing
SEG export rate
4–6p per kWh
Income from surplus energy
Panel lifespan
25–30 years
0.5% annual degradation
Installation time
1–3 days
For a standard domestic system
Home value boost
3–4%
Average property value increase

Get Free Solar Quotes

Compare personalised quotes from MCS-certified installers in your area. No obligation, no cost.

Get Free Quotes
MCS-certified only 500+ installations analysed No obligation

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do solar panels cost in 2026? +
A typical 3–4kW domestic system costs between £5,000 and £8,000 installed. Larger 5–6kW systems range from £7,000 to £11,000. See our full cost breakdown for details.
How long do solar panels take to pay for themselves? +
Most UK homes see payback periods of 6–10 years depending on system size, roof orientation, and your tariff. Use our savings calculator for a personalised estimate.
Do I need planning permission? +
Most residential installations are covered by permitted development rights. Exceptions include listed buildings and conservation areas. Read our planning permission guide.
Is solar battery storage worth it? +
A battery (£2,500–£6,000) increases self-consumption from ~30% to 70–80%. Our battery storage guide breaks down the numbers.