Thinking of going solar? Our new comparison tool is now live, along with expert advice to see how much you could save and how the process works.
Get solar quotes now
UK homeowners are keen to take back control of their energy and protect themselves from high energy bills, and many see solar panels as a key way to do so. Our research has found that three million households plan to get solar panels in the next five years for just that reason.
However, between unclear savings claims and the time-intensive task of vetting installers, finding the right solar system feels like a full-time job. Our transparent, streamlined journey puts you in control so you can shield your energy bills with an easy-to-use system tailored to your home and lifestyle.
We've simplified the process into four easy steps. Here is how it works:
Answer a few simple questions about your roof and energy usage, no technical expertise required.
We'll show you tailored quotes from our trusted partners so you can see exactly what you'll get for your money.
Review warranties, panel efficiency, and total costs side-by-side in a clear, easy-to-read format.
Once you've picked the best option for you, your chosen installer will carry out a professional home and design review over the phone.
Solar panels convert daylight into electricity, reducing your reliance on the National Grid and cutting your monthly bills. They are made of silicon and work on light, not just heat, so while they are most efficient in direct sun, they still generate power on cloudy UK days.
While standard panels are black or blue, you can now opt for coloured panels to match your roof (though these usually cost more). Newer tech, like transparent window panels, exists but isn't yet efficient or cost-effective enough for most UK homes.
Solar panels (also known as solar photovoltaics, or PV) convert sunlight into electricity. Modern panels are incredibly efficient at capturing diffused light, meaning they still generate power on typically overcast British days.
In 2026, solar will be more accessible than ever. While prices vary based on panel quality and system size, here are the approximate averages for systems without batteries, based on the installers we work with:
| System size | Average system cost | Typical household size |
|---|---|---|
| 2kW system | £4,600 – £5,800 | 1-2 people |
| 4kW system | £5,000 – £7,000 | 3-4 people (most common) |
| 6kW system | £6,000 – £8,000 | Large families (or those with EVs who charge at home) |
Solar panels are expensive, but you don't always need the full amount up front. Here are three paths you should consider when buying solar panels:
The fastest way to see a Return on Investment (ROI), as there are no interest costs.
Many UK banks now offer lower interest rates for green home improvements.
Many installers offer the ability to spread the cost over 3 to 10 years. While these carry standard interest rates (APR), they allow you to go solar immediately and lock in your energy price protection.
Yes, and for most households, the savings are significant. Solar helps you save money in three distinct ways.
Every unit of electricity your panels generate is a unit you don't have to buy from your energy supplier. By self-consuming your own solar power, you are effectively locking in a portion of your energy costs at 0p per kWh for the next 25 years.
Without a battery, you have to use it or lose it. By adding a solar battery, you can store the free energy you generated at midday and use it at 7pm when grid prices are at their peak. This can often double your annual savings compared to panels alone.
Through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), energy suppliers will actually pay you for the leftover energy you don't use. It acts as a steady offset against your standing charges and any night-time energy use.
It's difficult to give an accurate view on how long it will take to break even if you install solar panels because it's dependent on a range of variables, including:
According to the Energy Saving Trust, it could take anywhere between nine and 15 years to break even. However, there are benefits in the meantime, such as protection against global conflicts causing energy price spikes.
With a Trustpilot score of 4.9/5, we're one of the UK's most trusted comparison services.
Every partner we work with must be MCS-certified, ensuring your system is safe and eligible for export payments.
We don't sell your data to third parties. We only connect you with the specific installers you choose.
Our goal is to help you find the right fit for your roof and budget, not to push a specific brand.
We only work with installers who meet our high standards for quality, certification, and customer service. Each of our partners is MCS-certified, ensuring your system is safe, efficient, and eligible for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
Glow Green is one of the UK's most popular choices for home energy upgrades. It is known for its efficient, streamlined installation process and competitive pricing.
Best for: Homeowners looking for a tech-driven, hassle-free installation experience.
Why we trust it: It offers flexible financing options and has a strong reputation for clear, transparent communication from start to finish.
Sunsave is making solar accessible to everyone by removing the barrier of high upfront costs. It is the UK's first provider to offer a solar subscription, allowing you to pay a monthly fee rather than a lump sum.
Best for: Homeowners who want a "Solar-as-a-Service" model that includes ongoing monitoring and maintenance.
Why we trust it: Its Sunsave Plus plan is a game-changer for accessibility backed by a commitment to long-term system performance and customer support.
Heatable is a family-run business with full national coverage. It uses a highly advanced digital platform to provide fast quotes while maintaining the personal touch and accountability of a family-owned brand.
Best for: Nationwide reach with a personal, reliable feel.
Why we trust it: Its no-hassle approach and extensive volume of verified five-star customer reviews.
There are both pros and cons to investing in solar panels, so it's important to make sure you've considered all possibilities before committing to an installation.
Worried about the potential mess? Don't be. A standard UK installation is a simple process:
Usually set up the day before to ensure the team's safety.
Mounting rails are secured to your rafters (without compromising your roof's water-tightness).
Your solar PV array is bolted to the rails and wired together.
The DC power from your panels is fed into an inverter, which converts it to AC power for your home.
You receive your MCS certificate, which is required to access export tariffs.
For most homes, solar panels are an option. But there are some exceptions and limitations.
Most solar panels come with a 25-year performance guarantee. With proper maintenance, they can last 30 years or more.
To make the most of your panels, you should consider signing up for a Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariff, where energy suppliers pay eligible homeowners for surplus energy they send back to the grid.
Some modern SEG tariffs even allow you to sell high by exporting energy during peak hours (e.g. 4pm-7pm) for premium rates, and buy low by charging your battery from the grid when prices are at the bottom of the barrel (usually overnight).
Adding a solar battery lets you store the energy you generate during the day to use at night. Here are the main benefits of adding a solar battery to your home:
These guides might help.
How much a battery costs, how much it can save you, and whether it's worth adding to your system.
Which suppliers pay the most for exported energy and how to pick the right export tariff.
A realistic look at payback periods, savings and what affects your return on investment.
Our services are provided at no cost to you. We may receive a commission from the companies we refer you to, but this does not affect what you will pay for the product you choose.
Written by the Grow Your Business energy team · Updated on 13 July 2026