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Solar Panel Costs UK: Updated March 2025 Prices
- Solar panels can cost £5,000 - £6,000 for the average 2 to 3-bedroom house.
- Systems for 1 to 2-bedroom houses can cost £2,500 - £3,500, while those for 3 to 4 bedrooms cost £7,500 - £8,500.
- Annual savings from the average system can be as high as £745, with a break-even point of 8.
- Grants such as the ECO4 scheme can help procure solar panels for cheaper, while programs like the Smart Export Guarantee can help improve savings.
Even with all of the recent benefits that help you save on installation, solar panels can be quite an investment. On average, they can cost £5,000 - £6,000 for a UK household. However, there are many caveats to the end price. That’s why we’re going to break down the specific factors that influence solar panel costs in the UK and what factors can cause them to vary.
However, if you want an exact price for your home, we can also help you get an accurate one with the help of a trustworthy installer in your area. Rather than wasting hours calling up companies, researching, and comparing prices, you can use our network to find the one you need. All you have to do is fill out a quick 30-second form.
Click the button below to receive up to 4 free, non-binding solar quotes.
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £915 per year
- How much do solar panels cost in the UK?
- How much can solar panels save you?
- Are there solar panel grants available?
- Key factors that affect the costs of solar panels
- Financing options for solar panels in the UK
- How to minimise costs and maximise savings of solar panels
- Is it worth adding a solar battery to the installation?
- Are solar panels worth it?
- FAQ
How much do solar panels cost in the UK?
Solar panels cost £5,000 - £6,000 for most 2 to 3-bedroom households, which comprise the average residence in the UK. The size of solar panels you need depends on the energy consumption of your home, which is why it can cost anywhere from £2,500 - £10,500, with the lower range representing 1-bedroom houses and the higher range covering up to 5-bedroom houses (or more).
The table below shows the appropriate system size and average cost of solar panels in the UK:
| House size | Annual electricity usage | System size | System cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small; 1-2 bedrooms | 1,800kWh | 2kW | £2,500 - £3,500 |
| Small; 1-2 bedrooms | 1,800kWh | 3kW | £4,500 - £5,500 |
| Medium; 2-3 bedrooms | 2,700kWh | 4kW | £5,000 - £6,000 |
| Medium; 2-3 bedrooms | 2,700kWh | 5kW | £7,500 - £8,500 |
| Large; 4-5 bedrooms | 4,100kWh | 6kW | £9,500 - £10,500 |
These costs are estimates. Get a local installer QUOTE now!
Note: The approximate cost of solar panels for a 3-bedroom house is usually used as the standard because it matches the average energy consumption of UK households. How many solar panels you need may vary.
A 5kW solar system can be appropriate for larger 2 to 3 bedroom homes but medium to small homes with the same amount of bedroom can suffice with a 4kW solar system.
An individual solar panel’s price in the UK will depend on the company providing it. It’s important to keep in mind that the prices provided above are a wide estimate and that contacting an installer is the best way to get the most accurate quotes.
Are solar panel prices increasing or decreasing?
The cost to install solar panels has decreased significantly. These decreases in prices include standard residential solar panel systems as well as more costly high-efficiency solar panels. In the UK, this has amounted to a drop from £0.30 to £0.15 per Watt for mainstream modules in just the past year.
Here’s a solar panel price chart detailing the costs over time:
While the graph only has data pertaining to the cost of solar panels in the UK in 2024, the trends shown above are expected to continue in 2025 for all types of solar panels.
So why are solar panels getting cheaper?
These decreases have numerous reasons. Aside from the technology getting better and cheaper to produce thanks to advances and subsidies, 2023 to 2024 also had a surplus in the supply of panels. Similarly, many Chinese companies dragged the price down by adding new low-cost entrants to the market.
Solar panel labour, maintenance, & insurance costs
The average cost to install solar panels is £5,000 - £6,000 plus an extra £600 to £2,000 for labour. Larger solar panel systems will require higher labour costs and can take more man-hours to set up.
| Household Size | System Size | Estimated Costs | Estimated Labour Costs | Estimated Total Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small; 1-2 bedrooms | 2 - 3kW | £2,500 - £5,500 | £600 – £1,000 | £3,100 – £6,500 |
| Medium; 2-3 bedrooms | 4 - 5kW | £5,000 - £8,500 | £1,000 – £2,000 | £6,000 – £10,500 |
| Large; 4-5 bedrooms | 6kW | £9,500 - £10,500 | £2,000 – £3,000 | £11,500 – £13,500 |
Solar panels do not have high cleaning costs since you can wipe them down with household cleaning equipment. What you usually need is some biodegradable soap, a wiper, and a brush (preferably one with minimal chance of leaving scratches, i.e. a softer brush). Optional cleaning kits can cost £50 to £500.
Other additions like pigeon-proofing can help keep direct sunlight on your panels. This may cost £50 or more per panel for a simple wire mesh or over £150 per panel for complex elements like skirts. You may need these if you live in an area where wildlife is a concern. Similarly, insurance can cost an extra £100 to £200 per year.
Installer fees can add to the price, so it’s important to find a good one. If you’re still left wondering “How much are solar panels for a house?”, it would be best to check with a professional in your area.
The prices provided are estimates, which is why we recommend contacting reliable installers to get an accurate quote. Finding one can be a chore that involves hours of research and calling up companies, which is why we have a better way. Our service can provide you with up to 4 free solar panel quotes from installers we’ve personally vetted with no payment obligations.
All you have to do is fill out a 30-second form, and we’ll do the rest. Click the button below to get started.
Which factors affect the costs of solar panels?
The cost of shifting to solar can vary from situation to situation. This is one of the reasons both the installation and the supply price of the solar system are difficult to calculate with precision. Solar panel price factors include the following.
- System size: The power of your system is the main determinant of cost, adding roughly £1,000 to £2,000 per kW.
- Type of solar panels: The material and design can have a major impact on the supply cost. The main 3 materials include monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film.
- Solar panel installation costs: What solar panel installers charge can vary depending on the complexity of the job. In-roof solar panels can be more difficult to install, for example, so their prices are higher.
- Additional components: Adding parts like a solar battery or cleaning systems can push up the price but also keep future maintenance costs down and increase solar panel lifespan. If you are considering adding one to your system, be sure to choose the best solar battery for your specific needs.
- Grants and tariffs: Various grants can help pay for solar panels and their installation, including the ECO4 scheme and VAT reduction. These can greatly reduce the supply price for solar panels in the UK.
Additional components
Solar panels are much more useful and long-lasting if you spring for additional components you might need (depending on your situation). Monitoring systems and software can be great for ensuring your energy efficiency is always on point. Moreover, certain components can have their own specifications, which is why solar battery prices range so widely, from £2,500 - £10,500.
Other additions like pigeon-proofing can help keep direct sunlight on your panels. This may cost £50 or more per panel for a simple wire mesh or over £150 per panel for complex elements like skirts. You may need these if you live in an area where wildlife is a concern.
Below, we’ve provided some averages for solar panels that you should use as a benchmark.
| How much does it cost to install solar panels in the UK? | |
|---|---|
| Cost Breakdown | Average Cost Range (£) |
| Solar Panels | £2,500 - £10,500 |
| Mounting Systems and Racking | £600 – £2,500 |
| Inverters | £1,000 – £3,000 |
| Electrical Work | £600 – £3,000 |
| Energy Storage Systems / Solar Batteries | £2,000 – £10,000 |
| Monitoring Systems (Optional) | £500 – £1,500 |
| Labour cost for panel installation | £200 per kW fitted |
| Pigeon-proofing | £50 – £160 per panel |
| Total Installation Cost (Estimated Range) | £7,650 – £31,000 or More |
These costs are estimates. Get a local installer QUOTE now!
Solar panels do not have high cleaning costs since you can wipe them down with household cleaning equipment. What you usually need is some biodegradable soap, a wiper, and a brush (preferably one with minimal chance of leaving scratches, i.e. a softer brush). Optional cleaning kits can cost £50 to £500.
Other additions like pigeon-proofing can help keep direct sunlight on your panels. This may cost £50 or more per panel for a simple wire mesh or over £150 per panel for complex elements like skirts. You may need these if you live in an area where wildlife is a concern. Similarly, insurance can cost an extra £100 to £200 per year.
Installer fees can add to the price, so it’s important to find a good one. If you’re still left wondering “How much are solar panels for a house?”, it would be best to check with a professional in your area.
The prices provided are estimates, which is why we recommend contacting reliable installers to get an accurate quote. Finding one can be a chore that involves hours of research and calling up companies, which is why we have a better way. Our service can provide you with up to 4 free solar panel quotes from installers we’ve personally vetted with no payment obligations.
All you have to do is fill out a 30-second form, and we’ll do the rest. Click the button below to get started.
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £915 per year
How much do you save with solar panels?
Solar panels can save between £450 to £1,120. These savings depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the system you have and whether you are gaining extra savings by exporting energy back to the grid.
| Household size | Solar panel system size | System costs | Annual savings | Savings after 25 years | Return on investment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small; 1-2 bedrooms | 2 to 3kW | £2,500 - £5,500 | £450 | £11,250 | £6,000 - £7,000 |
| Medium; 2-3 bedrooms | 4 to 5kW | £5,000 - £8,500 | £670 | £16,750 | £11,000 - £12,000 |
| Large; 4-5 bedrooms | 6kW | £9,500 - £10,500 | £1,020 | £25,500 | £15,000 - £16,000 |
These costs are estimates. Get a local installer QUOTE now!
Savings can increase if you choose to opt for additional income through the Smart Export Guarantee. This can add to the savings and enhance your return on investment, adding between £75 to £170 on top of the standard savings.
| Solar panel system size | Annual electricity bill savings | Savings + avg. SEG savings |
|---|---|---|
| 2 to 3kW | £450 | £530 |
| 4 to 5kW | £670 | £745 |
| 6kW | £1,020 | £1,120 |
SEG payments can help offset the cost of installing solar panels in the UK, but they vary wildly. Make sure you’re well-informed about the best tariffs in your area, which can depend on your energy provider.
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £915 per year
Are there solar panel grants available?
The following grants are available in the UK:
| Grant | Eligibility Requirements | Application Period | Potential Earning or Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Energy Scotland Programme | Must be a homeowner or have the homeowner's permission | 2013 - Still open | £7,500 grant with an option of an additional £7,500 interest-free loans |
| Smart Export Guarantee | Homeowners, landlords, and small businesses in the UK | January 1st, 2020 - (Indefinite) | 1-75p earned per kWh provided back to the electric grid |
| Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) | Low-income households (with EPC ratings of D or lower) in England, Scotland, and Wales | April 1st, 2022 - March 2026 | Possibility for partial payments or free solar panels |
| 0% VAT | For residential properties that are used solely for domestic purposes | April 1st, 2022 - March 2027 | £1,300 or more on installation & energy bills |
- Home Energy Scotland Programme: Usually meant for energy efficiency measures, this loan applies to solar panels in Scotland as well, albeit if they are being bought alongside solar thermal panels. Since it can help a home’s energy efficiency and generate renewable energy, the government offers a sizable grant with the option of a loan on top.
- Smart Export Guarantee: The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a program by which energy providers give money back for each kWh sent back to the grid. This is usually between £0.05 to £0.20 per kWh. The amount you generate will vary based on the energy provider you opt for.
- Energy Company Obligation (ECO4): This scheme can potentially earn applicants free solar panels, among other energy-efficiency measures. The ECO4 Scheme is widely available throughout the UK for low-income households with an energy rating of D or lower. This one is subject to a home inspection where the assessor recommends the best course of action.
- 0% VAT: A 0% VAT policy automatically applies to solar panels and batteries, so it is possible to get the best price for both of these. What’s great about this policy is that you don’t have to do anything to apply for it since it is a tax deduction from the supplier side.
For more information about solar panel grants, you can check with your local authorities or an installer.
Key factors that affect the costs of solar panels
The cost of shifting to solar can vary from situation to situation. This is one of the reasons both the installation and the supply price of the solar system are difficult to calculate. Solar panel price factors include the following:
- System size: The power of your system is the main determinant of cost, adding roughly £1,000 to £2,000 per kW. Businesses will have to employ commercial solar panels, which are far larger systems for more heavy electricity usage.
- State of your roof: Some roofs might not be suitable and might need work before they are ready for solar panel installation.
- Type of solar panels: The material and design can have a major impact on the supply cost. The main 3 materials include monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film. Similarly, solar panel roof tiles or integrated solar panels will be more expensive than standard solar panels. Even within the standard type, the best solar panels are often from top brands, which tend to charge more.
- Solar panel installation costs: What solar panel installers charge can vary depending on the complexity of the job. In-roof solar panels can be more difficult to install, involving refurbishing the roof and making entryways, for example. This takes more time and can increase the per-hour cost of labour.
- Additional components: Adding parts such as a solar battery or cleaning systems can push up the price but also keep future maintenance costs down and increase solar panel lifespan. If you are considering adding one to your system, be sure to choose the best solar battery for your specific needs.
- Grants and tariffs: The average solar panel cost in the UK has also declined due to the abundance of popular grants. These include the ECO4 scheme and VAT reduction. These can greatly reduce the supply price for solar panels in the UK.
Financing options for solar panels in the UK
The most common financing options for solar panels in the UK include:
Subscription-based payments
This option allows you to spread the payments out across an extended period of time, ranging from a few months up to 20 years. Companies like Sunsave provide such offers as their primary solar panel installation business model. Other companies like Renogy and LG also provide it alongside their standard purchase options.
Monthly payments typically range from £29.99 to £200+, depending on system size and contract terms.
Although subscriptions can decrease the upfront cost by splitting it out over a long period, prices can be conditional with some contracts and may change over time. The benefits can vary based on your contract, and ownership may not be complete till the payment period is fully covered.
Personal loans
Banks and other financial institutions can provide loans for solar panels. Payback periods can vary based on the bank, so it’s important to consult an expert before signing anything. Loans can be less beneficial if you have an unfavourable credit score. Unlike subscriptions, they can also have interest rates, which can be 9.9%–13.9% APR for solar loans.
However, loans have their benefits. Once the loan is yours, you will have more options in terms of companies and installers. Subscriptions can be limited as not all companies offer them, and the terms of service can vary. With loans, you get to make your own decision once you have a signed agreement with the bank.
As mentioned earlier, Home Energy Scotland is one of the solar panel grants in Scotland, and it can serve as a government-managed loan with zero interest. This can be the best option for many low-income households.
Financing through solar panel installation companies
Solar companies often offer financing options that can be beneficial. These options can help finance your installation but may require a down payment, depending on the company providing it. After this, you will have to pay the rest of the installation cost in various instalments. The main concern will be the down payment, so make sure you can cover it before you can benefit from the lower monthly charges.
This can have a few benefits, the most crucial of which is the ability to get solar panel servicing and maintenance from the company directly. This method of payment also relies on interest rates, so it’s best to consult the installers in your area before you choose to work with one. This way, you can avoid overspending on your solar panels.
How to minimise costs and maximise savings of solar panels
The solar panel cost for home installation and purchase can vary based on a few factors:
- Look for grants and financial incentives
- Check with multiple installers and compare quotes to find the best price
- Install a battery for extra savings and off-grid energy
- Make sure your installation is ideally positioned and angled
- Find an energy provider with a generous SEG tariff
Is it worth adding a solar battery to the installation?
Yes. Solar batteries can be a great addition to a solar panel system. While they aren’t an absolute necessity, they allow for better savings and enable homeowners to use stored solar energy when the sun isn’t out.
They can provide £2 to £4 savings per day if used to store energy during off-peak hours for use during on-peak hours. These savings can add to the ones you get from solar panels and give you a backup in case the electricity goes out.
Solar batteries can add between £5,000 and £9,500 to the cost of your installation, so it may be preferable to do this if it's financially viable. The average cost of solar panels and battery installation together can come down to £9,500 - £15,500.
This may be out of your budget, so it’s important to note that you can install solar batteries after getting your panels once you have the money. Considering the typical cost of solar panel installation, it might be wise to stretch it out. However, installing both together can also get you a discount on both the products and the labour, decreasing the solar battery cost as well.
Are solar panels worth it?
Solar panels are definitely worth it because they provide savings, make your house more sustainable, and increase your home’s resale value. They also enable households to break free from the fossil fuel grid and take a step towards energy independence.
On top of that, solar panels also increase home value by 5% to 10%. We have resources dedicated to it on our “do solar panels increase home value” page if you’d like to learn more.
| House size | System size | System cost | Annual savings | Break-even point | Savings after 25 years |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small; 1-2 bedrooms | 2kW | £2,500 - £3,500 | £450 | 7 | £11,250 |
| Small; 1-2 bedrooms | 3kW | £4,500 - £5,500 | £450 | 11 | £11,250 |
| Medium; 2-3 bedrooms | 4kW | £5,000 - £6,000 | £670 | 8 | £16,750 |
| Medium; 2-3 bedrooms | 5kW | £7,500 - £8,500 | £670 | 11 | £16,750 |
| Large; 4-5 bedrooms | 6kW | £9,500 - £10,500 | £1,020 | 10 | £25,500 |
The average break-even point for solar panels is about 8, assuming you have a 2 to 3-bedroom house. This represents about 1/3rd of the effective lifespan of solar panels before they start to incur significant degradation in their efficiency. This means that even after the break-even point, solar panels will continue to produce electricity for another 15 to 20 years.
Effectively, solar panels can yield thousands in savings once they are set up. Over their lifespan, they can earn between £11,250 to £25,500.
But are solar panels worth it for you, specifically? That question can vary based on numerous variables related to your home. That’s why you need a reliable installer, but finding one can be a hassle that takes hours of research. Fortunately, we’ve got a better solution thanks to our network of vetted installers.
Click the button below, fill out a 30-second form, and you’ll receive up to 4 free, non-binding quotes from the best installers in your area.
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £915 per year
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