Compare solar panel installation for your UK home
Get matched with vetted, whole-of-market solar installers near you. Compare options for panels, batteries and inverters—then choose the quote that fits your home and budget.
- Whole-of-market comparison for home solar installation
- Compare panel + battery packages and estimated payback
- UK-based support and clear next steps
No obligation. For UK homeowners only. We’ll use your details to arrange comparable installer quotes.
Get solar installation quotes in minutes
Tell us a little about your home and we’ll match you with suitable UK solar installers. Compare like-for-like quotes for your roof type and energy goals—panels only or panels plus a battery.
What you’ll get
- Installer availability and typical timelines for your area
- Quote options including system size guidance (kWp) and expected generation
- Battery recommendations if you want to use more of your own solar
- Help understanding guarantees, certifications and what’s included
Prefer to read first? Jump to how solar installation works or check costs and savings.
Solar installation (UK homes): what it includes
A domestic solar panel installation typically means fitting photovoltaic (PV) panels to your roof (or ground-mounted in your garden), wiring them to an inverter that converts DC to usable AC electricity, and connecting the system to your consumer unit. Many homeowners also add a solar battery to store excess generation for evening use.
Solar PV panels
The panels generate electricity from daylight. System size is usually described in kWp (e.g. 3.5kWp, 4kWp, 6kWp).
Inverter + electrics
A string inverter or microinverters convert power and manage output. Your installer will ensure safe isolation switches and compliant wiring.
Battery (optional)
Stores spare solar so you can use more of what you generate. Helpful if you’re out during the day or want to reduce grid use at peak times.
EnergyPlus is a whole-of-market comparison service. Rather than pushing one brand or one installer network, we help you compare suitable options based on your postcode, roof type, and goals—so you can make an informed choice.
Why homeowners install solar panels
The right system can reduce reliance on the grid, cut electricity bills, and increase your home’s resilience. Benefits depend on your roof, usage patterns, and whether you add battery storage.
Lower electricity costs
Use your own generation during daylight hours. Pairing with a battery can increase self-consumption into the evening.
Earn from exported energy
If you export surplus electricity, you may be eligible for payments via the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) through participating suppliers.
Lower carbon footprint
Solar PV generates clean electricity at home, helping reduce household emissions over the system’s lifetime.
More predictable energy
Your output varies by season and weather, but the long-term performance is measurable and trackable via monitoring apps.
Boost your home’s efficiency story
Solar can support your broader plans—like improving insulation, switching to a heat pump, or charging an EV at home.
Installation is usually quick
Many straightforward roof installs are completed in 1–2 days, with commissioning and paperwork handled by the installer.
Good to know: Solar works in the UK year-round. You’ll typically generate less in winter and more in spring/summer—your quote should include estimated annual generation (kWh).
How solar installation works (from quote to switch-on)
A quality installation is as much about design and compliance as it is about the panels. Here’s what to expect when comparing installers through EnergyPlus.
- Tell us about your property — basic details like postcode and contact info so we can match suitable installers.
- Installer assessment — many installers use satellite imagery plus questions about shading, roof pitch and your electricity usage patterns.
- Quote options — you’ll receive proposals covering system size, panel/inverter spec, optional battery, and estimated annual generation.
- Home survey — a site visit checks roof condition, loft access, consumer unit, cable runs, and scaffolding needs.
- Installation day — mounting, wiring, inverter fit, and testing. For most homes this is 1–2 days, sometimes longer for complex jobs.
- Commissioning & handover — system set-up, monitoring app, documents (including warranties and certificates), and guidance on SEG/export metering steps.
What to compare in quotes
- System size (kWp) and estimated annual generation (kWh)
- Panel efficiency, degradation rate, and product warranty
- Inverter type and warranty length
- Workmanship warranty and what’s included
- Scaffolding, bird protection, optimisers/microinverters
- Battery usable capacity (kWh) and charge/discharge power (kW)
Installer checks that matter
- Roof structure and tile condition
- Shading (trees, chimneys, neighbouring buildings)
- Electrical safety and consumer unit suitability
- Ventilation and cable routing
- Export limitation requirements (where applicable)
- Clear documentation and aftercare
Solar panel installation costs & savings (UK)
Costs vary by system size, roof complexity, equipment choice, and whether you add a battery. The most useful quotes show both upfront cost and estimated annual benefit (bill savings + any export payments), with assumptions clearly stated.
VAT: Many energy-saving materials for UK homes, including solar PV and batteries, have benefited from a 0% VAT rate in recent years. Always confirm VAT treatment on your quote and invoice.
| What affects the price | Why it matters | What to ask installers |
|---|---|---|
| System size (kWp) | More panels generally cost more but can improve payback if you can use the energy. | How did you size the system for my usage and roof space? |
| Roof complexity | Scaffolding, height, tile type and access affect labour and time. | Is scaffolding included? Any extras likely after survey? |
| Inverter choice | String vs microinverters/optimisers can affect cost and performance under shading. | Do I need optimisers due to shading? What warranty applies? |
| Battery add-on | Batteries can increase self-consumption but add upfront cost. | What usable capacity and power is included? Can it be expanded? |
| Guarantees & aftercare | Long warranties are valuable, but check who underwrites them and what’s covered. | What’s the workmanship warranty and service response time? |
Typical saving levers
- Shift usage to daylight hours (washing, dishwasher)
- Use timed battery charging/discharging (where suitable)
- Consider diverters for hot water (property-dependent)
- Review export tariff options (SEG) once installed
Watch-outs in “cheap” quotes
- Unclear spec (panel/inverter model not stated)
- Scaffolding listed as “TBC” or excluded
- Short workmanship warranty
- Payback claims without assumptions (kWh, tariffs, export rates)
Want to compare quotes that reflect your property? Request solar installation quotes and we’ll match you with suitable installers for your area.
Is my home suitable for solar panels?
Many UK homes can have solar installed, but suitability depends on roof space, shading and the condition of your roof and electrics. Use the checklist below to sense-check your home before you request quotes.
Often suitable
- Unshaded roof areas (south-facing is ideal, but east/west can still work)
- Enough space for the system size you want
- Roof in good condition (no imminent re-roof needed)
- Reasonable access for scaffolding
- Stable household electricity demand (or plans to add EV/heat pump)
May need extra checks
- Significant shading (trees, dormers, chimneys)
- Older consumer units or limited spare ways
- Listed buildings or conservation areas (planning considerations)
- Flat roofs (often possible with mounting frames)
- Very small roofs (might suit fewer panels + battery focus)
Planning permission: do I need it?
Solar PV is often permitted development for homes, but exceptions can apply (for example, listed buildings and some conservation areas). Your installer should confirm what applies to your property and advise on any permissions required.
Solar installation FAQs
How long does a solar panel installation take?
For many homes, installation is completed in 1–2 days, with an additional visit or time for paperwork/commissioning if required. Complex roofs, electrical upgrades or battery installs may take longer.
Do solar panels work on cloudy days?
Yes. Output is lower in heavy cloud than in direct sun, but UK systems still generate meaningful electricity over the year. Quotes should provide annual kWh estimates.
Is a battery worth it?
It depends on your daytime usage and goals. Batteries can help you use more of your solar in the evening, but they add cost. Compare quotes for “panels only” vs “panels + battery” with the assumptions shown.
Can I get paid for exporting electricity?
Potentially, yes—via the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) through participating suppliers. Rates vary by supplier and tariff, and you’ll need an export-capable meter and appropriate documentation.
What certifications should I look for?
Ask about installer accreditations and compliance documentation relevant to domestic solar PV. A reputable installer will explain certifications, warranties, and the handover pack in plain English.
Will solar panels damage my roof?
When installed correctly on a sound roof, panels should not damage it. A survey should confirm roof condition and fixings, and you should receive a workmanship warranty covering the install.
What homeowners like about comparing with EnergyPlus
Every home is different. Our job is to help you compare solar installation quotes on a like-for-like basis and understand what’s included before you choose.
“The quotes were much easier to compare once the specs were set out clearly. We chose a mid-priced option with a better warranty.”
“Helpful guidance on panels vs panels + battery. The installer survey matched what was in the proposal—no surprises.”
“I appreciated being able to ask questions without pressure. We got a clear timeline and the install was done in two days.”
Trust checks to do before you agree
- Confirm full equipment spec (panel + inverter model numbers)
- Ask for written confirmation of what’s included (scaffolding, bird proofing, monitoring)
- Check warranty lengths and who provides them (manufacturer vs installer)
- Ensure you receive commissioning/handover documents after install
Ready to compare solar installation quotes?
Get matched with suitable UK installers and compare whole-of-market options for your home—panels only or panels plus battery storage.
- Fast, no-obligation enquiry
- Compare like-for-like specs and warranties
- Support understanding costs, savings and next steps
UK homeowners only. No spam—just relevant installer quotes.
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