How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in the UK? (2026)
The cost of a home solar panel (solar PV) system in the UK typically ranges from £5,000 to £13,000 installed, depending on system size, panel specification, and where you live. Prices have fallen significantly over the past decade as panel manufacturing costs dropped — but installation labour, scaffolding and inverter costs still vary considerably between installers.
Typical costs at a glance
| Type | From | To |
|---|---|---|
| Small system (2–3kWp) | £4,500 | £7,000 |
| Typical system (3.5–4kWp) | £6,000 | £9,000 |
| Larger system (5–6kWp) | £8,000 | £12,000 |
| Add battery storage | +£2,500 | +£5,500 |
Prices are indicative 2026 UK averages. Get multiple quotes — prices vary by region, installer and property.
What affects the cost?
- System size (kWp): More panels = higher output and higher cost. A 1kWp of installed capacity typically costs £1,500–£2,000 including labour and hardware.
- Panel brand and efficiency: Premium panels (e.g. SunPower, Panasonic) cost more but generate more power per square metre — useful on smaller roofs. Mid-range panels (e.g. JA Solar, Longi) offer good value.
- Inverter type: String inverters are cheaper; microinverters and optimisers cost more but improve performance on shaded or complex roofs.
- Scaffolding: Usually included in quotes but can add £500–£1,500 for complex roof access.
- Roof type: Tiled roofs are easiest. Flat roofs, metal roofs and listed buildings add complexity and cost.
- Region: London and South East installers typically quote 5–15% higher than the national average, reflecting higher labour costs.
Grants and savings
There is no direct government grant for solar panels for most homeowners in 2026 (the old Feed-in Tariff closed in 2019). However, the ECO4 scheme can fund solar for eligible low-income households as part of a wider package. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) pays you for surplus electricity exported to the grid — rates vary by energy supplier but have ranged from 3–15p/kWh. A 4kWp system can save a typical household £500–£900 per year on energy bills, giving a payback period of 7–12 years.
How to get the best price
- 1Get at least 3 quotes — prices can vary by 20–30% between installers for the same system.
- 2Compare system specs carefully — the cheapest quote may use lower-efficiency panels or a cheaper inverter.
- 3Check the installer is MCS-certified. Only MCS-certified installs are eligible for SEG payments.
- 4Ask about scaffolding — confirm it's included in the quote or get a separate itemised cost.
- 5Check for any manufacturer warranties (panels: 25–30 years; inverters: 5–15 years).
Common questions
Are solar panels worth it in the UK in 2026?
For most homeowners with a south-facing roof and reasonable electricity consumption, yes. A 4kWp system currently saves £500–£900/year on bills and earns some income from SEG exports. Payback is typically 7–12 years, and panels carry 25-year performance warranties. The calculation improves if you have a battery or EV to use surplus generation.
How many solar panels do I need?
A typical 3-bedroom semi-detached home uses 3,000–4,000 kWh/year. A 3.5–4kWp system (8–10 standard panels) will generate roughly that much in the UK south, and somewhat less in Scotland. The exact number depends on panel wattage — modern panels are 400–430W each, so 10 × 410W = 4.1kWp.
How long does solar panel installation take?
Most residential installations are completed in 1–2 days. MCS-certified installers survey your roof and submit a DNO notification (to your electricity network) before installation; this process takes 1–4 weeks. The physical install day is usually straightforward.
Can I get solar panels on a flat roof?
Yes. Flat roofs need angled mounting frames to tilt the panels toward the sun (typically 15–35°). This adds cost (£500–£1,500) but works well. Some flat-roofed properties are better suited to membrane-integrated systems — an installer survey will confirm the best approach.
Do solar panels work in the UK's cloudy climate?
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not direct sunshine — they still produce around 10–25% of peak output on overcast days. The UK receives 900–1,200 peak sun hours per year, which is enough for a viable solar investment, particularly when combined with battery storage.
Ready to get accurate quotes?
Prices vary — the best way to know what you'll pay is to compare quotes from MCS-certified local installers. Free, no commitment.