UK solar panel installation costs & savings (2025)
See what homeowners typically pay for solar PV in 2025, how much you could save on electricity bills, and how quickly solar can pay back — then compare whole-of-market installers through EnergyPlus.
- Typical 2025 UK costs by system size (2–6kW) and what’s included
- Realistic savings ranges with/without a battery, plus export payments
- Get matched to vetted, whole-of-market installers near you
For UK homes. Prices and savings vary by roof, usage and tariff. We’ll use your postcode to match local installer availability.
Compare whole-of-market solar installers in your area
Solar PV prices in the UK can differ by thousands depending on panel brand, inverter choice, scaffold needs, roof layout and whether you add a battery. EnergyPlus helps you compare home solar panel installation quotes from a wide range of UK installers — so you can focus on value, warranty and yield, not guesswork.
What you’ll get
- Comparable quotes for solar PV (and optional battery storage)
- Installer availability matched to your postcode
- Clear next steps: survey, design, and expected generation
Want to estimate first? Jump to the 2025 UK cost table and the savings & payback guide.
Why compare solar quotes instead of taking the first price?
Like-for-like system design
Two quotes can look similar but use different panels, inverter types, mounting systems or warranties. Comparing helps you match price with performance.
Avoid hidden extras
Scaffolding, consumer unit upgrades, bird proofing and complex roof access can change the total. A good quote clearly lists what’s included and what isn’t.
Better payback confidence
Savings depend on daytime usage and export payments. Comparing installers helps you choose a system size and setup that fits your household — not a one-size pitch.
UK solar panel installation costs in 2025 (typical ranges)
In 2025, most homeowners pay a mid four-figure amount for solar PV, with total price driven mainly by system size (kW), roof complexity and equipment choices. The table below shows indicative installed costs for a typical UK home (including installation). Use it as a starting point — your quote may be higher or lower depending on your property.
| System size (typical) | Who it suits | Typical installed price (2025) | Typical panels |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2–3 kW | Smaller homes / lower usage | £3,500–£6,000 | 5–8 panels |
| 3.5–4.5 kW | Average family homes | £5,000–£9,000 | 9–12 panels |
| 5–6 kW | Higher usage / EV charging | £7,000–£12,500 | 13–16 panels |
Cost add-ons to plan for (common in UK installs)
Scaffolding & access
Often required for two-storey homes, mid-terraces, or difficult roof access. It’s a frequent cause of “why is my quote higher?”
Electrical upgrades
A consumer unit upgrade or additional protection may be recommended to meet current standards and installer requirements.
Bird proofing / mesh
Optional, but popular where pigeons are a known issue. Can reduce noise and keep debris from building up under panels.
Battery storage
Adds upfront cost but can increase self-consumption and bill savings, especially with time-of-use tariffs.
If you want accurate pricing for your roof type, location and electricity usage, request solar quotes and compare whole-of-market options.
How much can solar save in 2025? (Bills, export & payback)
Your savings come from two places: using your own generated electricity instead of buying from the grid, and exporting surplus for payment via a Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariff (available from many UK energy suppliers). The exact numbers vary by household usage patterns, tariff, orientation/shading and system size.
Biggest driver: daytime self-use
If you’re home in the day (WFH, young family, electric heating/hot water scheduling), you can use more solar as it’s generated. Higher self-use typically means higher bill savings.
Export still matters
If you export a lot (e.g., you’re out during the day), SEG payments can materially improve returns. Make sure your quote includes an export meter setup where needed.
Typical annual savings & payback ranges (guide)
These ranges are illustrative for UK homes in 2025 and assume a correctly designed system with reasonable performance. Your installer should provide a tailored generation estimate (kWh/year) and a clear assumption set.
| Scenario | Typical bill saving + export (per year) | Indicative payback | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5–4.5kW solar, no battery | ~£350–£900 | ~7–14 years | Best when you can use power in the day |
| 4–6kW solar, no battery | ~£450–£1,100 | ~7–13 years | More export likely if you’re out during the day |
| Solar + battery (typical home) | ~£500–£1,350 | ~9–16 years | Higher self-use; payback depends on battery cost & tariff |
How to read payback correctly
- Payback is a guide, not a guarantee — electricity prices and usage patterns change.
- Ask for assumptions: projected generation (kWh), degradation, tariff used, and export rate.
- Consider warranties and aftercare; the cheapest quote isn’t always the best long-term value.
Solar battery storage in 2025: when it makes sense
A battery stores surplus daytime generation so you can use it later (evenings, mornings). It can also help you take advantage of time-of-use electricity tariffs by charging cheaply off-peak (where suitable). However, batteries add cost, so it’s worth checking whether the extra savings justify the investment for your household.
Good fit if you export a lot
If most of your solar is produced while you’re out, a battery can increase self-consumption and reduce peak-time imports.
Useful for EV charging strategy
A battery won’t replace dedicated EV charging, but it can help shift solar into evening top-ups or smooth household demand.
Not always needed
If you already use lots of electricity during daylight hours, solar-only can offer excellent value without the extra battery cost.
Battery cost guide (installed)
As a broad 2025 guide, many UK homeowners see installed battery prices commonly in the £2,000–£6,000+ range depending on usable capacity (kWh), brand, hybrid inverter needs and installation complexity. Always compare usable capacity, warranty and throughput limits rather than headline size alone.
If you’re unsure whether to include a battery, request quotes both with and without storage to compare payback clearly: get solar quotes.
How the comparison process works
- Tell us your postcode and contact details so we can check installer coverage and follow up with options.
- Get matched to whole-of-market installers who can quote for your property type and roof.
- Compare proposals (system size, equipment, warranty, estimated generation and price).
- Choose your preferred installer and book a survey/installation date that suits you.
Common solar buying mistakes (and how to avoid them)
1) Oversizing without checking export & usage
More panels aren’t always better. A well-matched system focuses on how much you can use at home and what export rate you’ll receive.
2) Comparing quotes that aren’t like-for-like
Check panel model, inverter type (string/micro/hybrid), monitoring, warranty length, and what “extras” are included.
3) Not asking about shading and roof layout
Dormers, chimneys, trees and multiple roof faces affect yield. A good design explains expected generation and any limitations.
4) Ignoring warranties and workmanship
Solar is a long-term asset. Prioritise clear warranties for panels, inverter, and installation workmanship — and keep documentation safe.
Regional considerations across the UK
Solar works across the UK, but your location can influence generation and installer pricing. Here’s what to consider when estimating UK solar panel costs and savings in 2025:
Scotland
Shorter winter days can reduce seasonal output, but summer generation can still be strong. Installer availability may vary by postcode.
North & Midlands
Roof pitch/orientation and shading often matter more than latitude. Good system design and realistic yield estimates are key.
South, London & Home Counties
You may see higher labour/access costs (e.g., scaffolding) but potentially stronger annual generation. Always compare multiple quotes.
For an installer view of your property and area pricing, request quotes here.
FAQs: solar panel costs and savings (UK, 2025)
How much do solar panels cost for a typical UK house in 2025?
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
How long do solar panels last?
Will solar work on a north-facing roof?
Can I get paid for exporting electricity in 2025?
Is a battery worth it?
What homeowners say
“Comparing quotes helped us spot what was missing from the cheapest option. We chose a better warranty and clearer generation estimate.”
“The postcode matching was useful — we only heard from installers who actually cover our area, so it saved time.”
“We asked for solar-only and solar + battery quotes. Seeing the difference in payback made the decision much clearer.”
Ready to price your solar install and savings for 2025?
Get matched with whole-of-market installers covering your postcode. Compare like-for-like proposals and choose the option that fits your home and budget.
No obligation. UK homes only. Prices vary by roof, equipment and installation requirements.
Back to Solar Energy