Solar Panel System Calculator UK

Solar Panel Costs and Savings

How much do solar panels cost?

• The price depends on the size of the system, your roof, and if you want a battery. It's important to set a clear budget for your solar installation to ensure you choose a system that fits your financial situation and long-term goals.

• For a typical UK home, a 4kW solar system (enough for an average household) costs about £5,000–£6,000 installed. For example, if you opt for a larger system, you may benefit from greater long-term savings, but you should expect higher upfront costs.

• If you add a battery, the total cost rises to £13,000–£15,500. Finance options are available to help spread the cost of your solar panel installation, making it more accessible for different budgets.

• Most homes use 8–12 panels, with costs averaging £1.50–£2.50 per watt, plus installation (£0.50–£1.00 per watt). You should expect to pay for both the initial installation and ongoing maintenance, such as cleaning and occasional repairs. For example, a standard 4kW system might save you around £300–£400 per year on electricity bills, depending on your usage and system size.

How much can you save?

• Annual savings range from £440 to £1,005, representing money saved on your energy bills.

• Most systems pay for themselves in 7–9 years, with payback periods calculated based on your system's costs and savings. The benefit of solar panels is that after the payback period, you continue to save money for many years.

• In the first year, you can see significant savings on your energy bills and make a positive environmental impact by reducing your carbon footprint.

• Smaller homes (1–2 bedrooms) might need six panels (about 2.1kW), costing £4,200–£4,500 and saving about £270 per year.

• Larger homes (3–4 bedrooms) may need 10–14 panels, costing £7,000–£10,000, with annual savings of £450–£630. These savings also contribute to carbon savings by lowering your household's emissions.

• Adding a battery costs an extra £2,500–£8,000, depending on size and storage.

Government Incentives and Grants

The UK government offers several ways to make solar more affordable:

• 0% VAT on solar panel installations until 2027, saving the average household about £1,850.

• Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): Get paid for selling extra electricity back to the grid. You need to sign up with an energy supplier, and rates vary.

• ECO4 and HUG2 grants: Some households with low EPC ratings and incomes under £36,000 may qualify for free or subsidised panels.

• Green Loans: Many banks offer interest-free loans for energy-efficient home improvements.

Installation Process

• Start with a quote and a site survey to check your roof’s suitability.

• Most homes don’t need planning permission unless listed or in a conservation area.

• Installation usually takes one day for a standard system.

• The process includes mounting panels, wiring, and connecting the inverter and battery (if chosen).

• After installation, the system is tested and connected to your home’s electricity supply.

Maintenance and Lifespan

• Solar panels are low-maintenance and have no moving parts.

• Most come with 25–30 year warranties.

• Occasional cleaning is recommended for best performance, usually once a year.

What Affects Cost and Performance?

Several factors influence your solar system’s price and effectiveness:

• System size: Bigger systems cost more but save more.

• Roof orientation: South-facing, unshaded roofs work best, as they maximize exposure to the sun for optimal energy capture.

• Panel type: High-efficiency panels cost more but can boost savings.

• Installation complexity: Difficult roofs or special mounting can increase costs.

• Location: Solar output varies by region and daylight hours. More sunlight in your area means higher energy production.

Solar panels contribute to renewable energy generation, helping you offset your home's carbon emissions and achieve your sustainability targets.

Extra Features and Upgrades

You can add:

• Solar batteries: Store extra energy for use at night or during power cuts.

• Bird guards: Keep birds from nesting under your panels.

• Hot water diverters: Use surplus solar power to heat your water.

• Remote monitoring: Track your system’s performance.

Environmental and Financial Benefits

• Solar panels cut your carbon footprint and support sustainability by reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental responsibility.

• Over 25 years, you can create long-term energy savings, save thousands of pounds, and prevent several tonnes of CO₂ emissions, helping to build a greener future.

• For business users, installing solar panels can lower energy bills, enhance your business’s environmental credentials, and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.

• Businesses are increasingly adopting solar solutions for both financial and environmental reasons, benefiting from cost savings and meeting market or regulatory expectations.

• Solar panels can also add value to your property and protect you from rising energy prices.

Getting Started

• Use our online calculator for an instant, tailored estimate.

• For a precise quote, arrange a site survey with a certified installer.

• The installer will check shading, roof structure, and your energy use to recommend the best system.

• Once you’re ready, the installer handles the paperwork, orders the equipment, and schedules installation.

Summary

Solar panels are more affordable than ever in the UK, thanks to lower prices and government incentives. A typical home pays £5,000–£6,000 for a system, or up to £15,500 with a battery, and can save £440–£1,005 per year. With minimal maintenance and a 25–30 year lifespan, solar is a smart investment for your home and the environment.