Apartment and flat dwellers can still benefit from solar energy. We explore balcony panels, community solar schemes, and how to approach landlords about installations.
Balcony Panels (Guerrilla Solar)
Cost: £400-£800 per 400W system | Output: 200-300 kWh/year | Payback: 3-5 years
Portable solar panels mounted on balconies or terraces. Plug into standard sockets. No installation required – perfect for renters. Popular brands: Balkonkraftwerk, Sunology, Ecoflow.
Community Solar Schemes
Join local solar cooperatives where shared systems benefit multiple households. You buy shares or lease capacity. Returns typically 4-6% annually. Check your local council for schemes.
Landlord Negotiation
Present the business case: 6-8 year payback, increased property value (3-4%), minimal maintenance. Share quotes from MCS installers. Offer to cover installation if landlord covers roof access.
Social Housing Options
Some housing associations offer free solar installations to tenants under ECO4 or similar schemes. Check with your provider.
Get Specialist Quotes
Find installers experienced with flats and apartments in your area.