Compare solar panel installation costs UK 2026
Get whole-of-market quotes from vetted UK installers and see what a home solar PV system is likely to cost in 2026—based on your roof, postcode, and energy use.
- Compare like-for-like quotes (panels, inverter, battery options and warranties)
- Understand 2026 pricing drivers (labour, scaffold, DNO, battery sizing)
- No obligation—complete one form to access whole-of-market options
For UK homes only. We’ll match you with installers covering your area. Quotes depend on roof suitability and survey results.
Compare home solar installation quotes in minutes
Solar panel installation costs in the UK can vary widely in 2026. Two systems that look similar on paper can differ in total price because of roof access, scaffold requirements, inverter type, battery sizing and DNO paperwork.
EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service for UK homeowners. Tell us a few details, and we’ll route your enquiry to installers who cover your postcode so you can compare options like-for-like.
What you’ll get
- Quotes with clear assumptions (kWp size, panel count, inverter/battery, warranty)
- Guidance on typical 2026 ranges for your property type
- Help comparing installers, finance options and export tariffs
Best time to compare in 2026
If you’re planning a spring/summer install, compare early—popular installers book up, and scaffold availability can affect both lead times and cost. A quick comparison also helps you decide whether a battery is worth it for your usage pattern.
Tip: If you have your annual electricity usage (kWh) from a bill or smart meter app, keep it handy—installers can size your system more accurately and price more confidently.
Why homeowners compare solar installation costs (and not just panel prices)
Avoid hidden extras
Scaffold, bird proofing, monitoring, export meter setup and DNO notifications can change the final bill. Comparing quotes helps you spot what’s included.
Match the system to your usage
A bigger kWp system isn’t always best. The right design considers your daytime usage, future EV/heat pump plans, and whether a battery improves self-consumption.
Confidence in installer quality
In 2026, workmanship and aftercare matter as much as kit. Compare warranties, MCS certification, and whether the quote includes a proper site survey.
Solar panel installation costs UK 2026: typical ranges
Below are indicative installed ranges for UK homes in 2026. They’re designed to help you sanity-check quotes. Your exact price depends on roof complexity, access, equipment choices and the installer’s survey.
What “installed” means: panels, mounting, inverter, standard wiring, commissioning, and MCS paperwork. Some items (scaffold, roof works, optional bird mesh, upgraded consumer unit, optimisers, battery) may be additional depending on your property.
| System size (typical home) | Panels (approx.) | Typical installed cost (2026) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3–4 kWp solar PV | 8–10 | £5,000–£7,500 | Smaller homes; moderate daytime use |
| 4–6 kWp solar PV | 10–14 | £6,500–£10,000 | Most family homes; strong value per kWp |
| 6–8 kWp solar PV | 14–20 | £9,000–£13,500 | Higher usage; EV charging; larger roofs |
| Solar PV + 5 kWh battery | (with 4–6 kWp PV) | £9,000–£14,500 | Evening usage; maximise self-consumption |
| Solar PV + 10 kWh battery | (with 4–8 kWp PV) | £11,500–£18,000 | Families; EV; time-of-use tariffs |
What’s included in a good 2026 quote?
Design & paperwork
- Roof assessment and shade considerations
- MCS paperwork and commissioning certificates
- DNO notification/application (where required)
- Export metering guidance and handover pack
Hardware & workmanship
- Named panel and inverter models (not “equivalent”)
- Clear warranty terms (product + workmanship)
- Monitoring app access and system documentation
- Electrical safety checks and tidy cable runs
What affects solar panel installation cost in 2026?
If you’re comparing quotes and the difference seems too big, it’s usually down to one of the factors below. Ask installers to confirm assumptions in writing so you can compare fairly.
- Roof access & scaffold: Height, conservatories, extensions, and narrow access can increase scaffold needs and labour.
- Roof complexity: Multiple roof faces, dormers, valleys and unusual tiles add time and mounting costs.
- Electrical works: Distance to consumer unit, earthing upgrades, isolators, and whether your board needs replacement.
- Inverter type: String inverters are common; hybrid inverters add flexibility for batteries; microinverters/optimisers can cost more but may help with shading.
- Battery size & chemistry: Battery capacity (kWh), power output (kW), and brand all impact price. Oversizing can reduce ROI.
- DNO approval: Some systems require prior approval and export limits may apply depending on your local network constraints.
- Warranty & aftercare: Cheaper quotes sometimes reduce workmanship cover or omit call-out support.
Comparison tip: When you receive quotes, ask for the kWp size, expected annual generation estimate (kWh), assumed orientation/tilt, and what’s included for scaffold and electrical upgrades. This makes pricing far easier to compare.
Savings, export payments and payback: what to expect in 2026
Solar savings are driven by how much of your generated electricity you use at home (self-consumption) versus export to the grid. In 2026, many homeowners improve self-consumption by shifting usage to daytime (dishwasher, washing, immersion) or adding a battery.
1) Bill reduction
Using solar directly replaces imported electricity. Households with daytime occupancy typically benefit more without needing a battery.
2) Export tariffs
If you export surplus, you may receive payments via a Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariff. Rates vary by supplier and can change over time.
3) Battery value
A battery can boost self-consumption and support time-of-use tariffs, but it’s an extra upfront cost—right-sizing matters.
A simple way to sense-check payback
When an installer provides an annual generation estimate, ask them to split it into:
- Used on-site (kWh) × your import unit rate
- Exported (kWh) × your export rate
Good to know: Payback is not guaranteed and depends on energy prices, shading, orientation, your usage habits and maintenance. Use quotes to compare assumptions—not just the final £ figure.
Regional considerations across the UK
Solar works throughout the UK, but costs and generation estimates can differ by region. Installers also price based on travel time and local labour availability.
England & Wales
- Wide installer coverage in most areas
- Generation varies with shading and roof orientation more than postcode alone
- DNO processes differ by network area—quotes should note any export limitations
Scotland & Northern Ireland
- Weather variability makes accurate surveys and realistic generation estimates important
- Some rural areas may see higher travel/scaffold costs
- Export and grid connection requirements can vary—ask what’s included
Local quote accuracy: The most reliable pricing comes after a site survey. Use comparisons to shortlist, then confirm final price after the installer checks roof condition, access and electrics.
Common mistakes when comparing solar panel installation quotes
If you’re searching for the cheapest solar panel installation cost in the UK, be careful: “cheap” can become expensive if key items are missing. Use this checklist to compare quotes confidently.
Comparing by panel count only
Different panel wattages mean different total kWp. Always compare on system size (kWp) and expected annual generation.
Ignoring warranty detail
Check panel product warranty, performance warranty, inverter warranty and workmanship. Ask who handles warranty claims.
Not confirming scaffold/electrics
Clarify if scaffold is included, and whether any consumer unit or earthing upgrades are allowed for.
Practical next step: Use our quote form to compare options, then ask shortlisted installers to itemise the quote so everything is transparent.
FAQs: solar panel installation costs in the UK (2026)
How much do solar panels cost to install in the UK in 2026?
Typical installed prices for many homes sit in the £5,000–£13,500 range for solar PV (depending on kWp size and complexity). Adding a battery commonly increases the total to £9,000–£18,000. Use these as guide rails—your roof and electrics can move the figure up or down.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
Many UK home installs fall under permitted development, but there are exceptions (e.g., listed buildings and some conservation areas). Your installer should confirm what applies to your address.
What is MCS and why does it matter for cost comparisons?
MCS is a UK certification scheme for renewable installations. Many export tariff providers expect MCS certification and proper commissioning documents. When comparing costs, check the quote includes MCS paperwork and commissioning.
Is a battery worth it in 2026?
A battery can be worthwhile if you use most electricity in the evening, want backup-like resilience (where supported), or plan to use time-of-use tariffs. It’s not always the best ROI—ask installers to show estimated self-consumption with and without a battery.
Why do solar quotes vary so much?
Differences often come from scaffold, roof complexity, electrical upgrades, the specific panel/inverter brands used, and warranty/aftercare levels. Compare itemised quotes and ensure the same assumptions are used for kWp size and generation estimates.
How long does installation take?
Many standard home installs take 1–2 days on-site, with additional time for scaffold (if needed) and paperwork. Timelines vary by installer workload and property specifics.
Have a question not covered here? Start with a quick comparison and we’ll help you understand your options when installers respond.
Trusted comparisons for UK homeowners
Whole-of-market approach
We’re not tied to one installer. Compare options that fit your home, budget and timeline.
UK-focused guidance
Clear explanations on DNO, MCS paperwork, export tariffs and quote line items—so you can decide with confidence.
No-pressure process
You’re in control. Compare, ask questions, and only proceed if the numbers and installer feel right.
What homeowners say
“The quotes were much easier to compare once everything was itemised. We spotted one that didn’t include scaffold and avoided a surprise cost.”
— Homeowner, West Midlands
“We weren’t sure about a battery. Comparing options helped us choose the right size for evenings without overspending.”
— Homeowner, Greater Manchester
Ready to compare solar installation costs for your home?
Use one form to access whole-of-market installer quotes across the UK. Compare equipment, warranties and total installed price—then choose the option that suits your household.
Already have quotes? Use the sections above to compare assumptions and inclusions.
Quick checklist for your survey
- Any shading from trees/chimneys?
- Where is your consumer unit located?
- Do you plan an EV or heat pump?
- Would you use power mostly day or evening?
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