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mySolar Panel Installation Cost
At a Glance
- The average cost of installing solar panels is £7,250.
- Most jobs will take approximately 1 to 2 days to complete
- Solar panel installation costs in 2026 based on the size of system and choice of panels.
- How long the job takes a general overview of what's involved.
- How to find and hire solar panel installers with MyJobQuote.
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£7,250
Table of Contents
- How Much Does It Cost To Install Solar Panels?
- How Much Does a Solar Panel Cost? (Supply Only)
- Labour Cost of Installing Solar Panels & Timescales
- Factors That Impact Solar Panel Installation Costs
- Additional Costs of Solar Panel Installation
- Hidden Costs of Solar Panel Installation
- Cost of Removing Solar Panels
- How Much Can You Save with Solar Panels?
- How to Maximise Your Savings with Solar Panels
- Checklist: Hiring a Solar Panel Installer Near You
- FAQs
How Much Does It Cost To Install Solar Panels?
The average cost of installing solar panels is usually anywhere from £3,000 to £9,500, which covers materials (the panels, hardware, inverter), labour for fitting the panels, and logistics such as scaffolding and transportation.
The reason the initial cost of installing solar panels (also known as photovoltaic modules or solar PV panels) can vary so much is mainly down to how many panels your home needs, where you live, and the condition of your property's roof.
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Perfer to learn more about how much solar panel installers cost to hire and how many panels you might need for your home? Read on as our complete guide answers all of these questions and more!
Solar Panel Installation Prices
So, how much are solar panels? Installing a 4kW system, which is sufficent for a typical 3 bedroom property, typically costs between £6,500 and £8,000.
There is currently a 0% VAT rate on solar panel installations in the UK, which helps keep costs lower than they have been in the past.
Below is a table showing typical system sizes and how much a monocrystalline system typically costs in materials and labour:
| System Size | Material Cost | Labour Cost | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1kW (2–3 panels) | £1,800 – £2,400 | £1,200 – £1,600 | £3,000 – £4,000 |
| 2kW (4–5 panels) | £2,500 – £3,200 | £1,500 – £1,800 | £4,000 – £5,000 |
| 3kW (6–7 panels) | £3,800 – £4,500 | £1,700 – £2,000 | £5,500 – £6,500 |
| 4kW (8–10 panels) | £4,500 – £5,500 | £2,000 – £2,500 | £6,500 – £8,000 |
| 5kW (11–12 panels) | £5,500 – £6,500 | £2,500 – £3,000 | £8,000 – £9,500 |
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How Many Solar Panels Do You Need?
The size of system you need depends mainly on the size of your home and your energy consumption. As a rough guide, here is a table showing typical house sizes and how many solar panels they usually require:
| House Size | System Size & Panels | Total Installed Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 1 – 2 Bed Flat / Terrace | 2.2kW (5 Panels) | £4,000 – £5,000 |
| 2 – 3 Bed Semi-Detached | 3.6kW (8 Panels) | £5,800 – £7,250 |
| 3 – 4 Bed Detached | 5.4kW (12 Panels) | £7,500 – £9,500 |
| 5+ Bed / High Usage | 7.2kW (16 Panels) | £10,000 – £12,500 |
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How Much Does a Solar Panel Cost? (Supply Only)
You may want to buy the solar panels yourself before hiring a professional to install them. You will therefore need to visit a trusted retailer or find a reliable source online to supply these for you.
Individual high-efficiency panels now average around £150 – £250 each, depending on the brand and wattage. However, remember that most homeowners save more by choosing a 'supply and fit' package, which currently benefits from 0% VAT and ensures you receive the MCS certification needed to sell power back to the grid.
Packages also typically include the inverter, which is required to covert AC power into DC power that your home can use. Without an inverter, solar panels won't be able to supply power to your home. The mounting kit and cables are also typically included when buying a full supply and fit package.
If I were to have an electric boiler installed, how many solar panels might I need to power it all year round to meeting my home's heating needs?
"For a 25 kW boiler you would require at least 20 3kW solar panels a battery bank and a large inverter."
Labour Cost of Installing Solar Panels & Timescales
Solar panel installation typically takes 1 to 2 days on-site, although some difficult installations or very large systems may take longer. While the equipment represents the largest portion of your quote, the total cost also covers essential logistics and skilled labour. On average, you can expect the average solar roof installers cost to be around £400 and £600 per day for a qualified installation team.
It is important to note that most reputable contractors provide a fixed "all-in" price. This doesn't just cover the physical fitting, but also the critical MCS certification (which allows you to get paid for the energy you export) and the DNO (Distribution Network Operator) application fees required to legally connect your system to the National Grid.
How difficult and how costly is it to add battery storage to an existing solar panel system?
"It is very easy to add battery storage. However the cost depends on the size of the battery you install and whether you add a Hybrid inverter or an AC control unit."
Factors That Impact Solar Panel Installation Costs
How much solar panels for the home cost depends on several key factors, including the following:
Location of Property
Your location can have a noticeable impact on solar panel costs. If you’re in a city or built-up area, you’ll often find more solar panel installers near you, which can help keep prices competitive.
In more rural or remote areas, there may be fewer local installers available, meaning you might need to hire a company further away. This can increase costs due to travel time and call-out charges.
Because many installers charge for time spent travelling as well as working, a property that’s harder to reach or further from the company base can result in a higher final bill. In some cases, limited local availability can also reduce competition, which may slightly increase prices.
Number of Solar Panels
The size of your solar panel system is one of the biggest factors affecting the overall cost. A larger system with more panels will naturally cost more upfront, as you’ll need additional materials and installation time.
However, bigger systems also generate more electricity, which can lead to greater long-term savings.
It’s important to strike a balance between upfront cost and long-term benefit. Many homeowners choose a system size based on their household energy usage and available roof space.
Size of Solar Panels
The size of the solar panel also matters. Small solar panels are cheaper to lay out, and they also aren't too tasking, meaning the price of labour might be reduced. However, larger panels, like the 5kW types, are more expensive and also require more labour.
Very large panels may need more installers, increasing labour costs.
Type of Solar Panels
There are two major types of solar panels: monocrystalline and polycrystalline. Polycrystalline panels are now almost obsolete, as monocrystalline panels offer better efficiency and durability and perform better in low light conditions.
Some homeowners also choose solar roof tiles. These typically cost more and take longer to install than either type of solar panel, but they are generally more aesthetically pleasing and can increase your home's value.
Ease of Access
Most homeowners choose roof installation rather than ground-mounted panels. Therefore, if the roof is difficult to access, it could cost more. This could be as a result of obstacles or other circumstances, but restricted access to the roof usually means the job will take longer, which consequently increases the price.
Condition of the Roof
The roof is crucial when it comes to the installation of solar panels. If the roof is dirty or has damaged tiles, you will need to factor in additional cleaning or repair costs before having the solar panels installed.
Complexity of the Installation
Not all solar panel installations are straightforward. If your roof has an unusual shape, multiple angles, or limited usable space, the installation process becomes more complex and time-consuming.
Factors such as steep roof pitches, multiple storeys, or the need for scaffolding can also increase costs. In some cases, installers may need to design a more customised system layout, which can add to both labour and planning expenses.
Extra mounting equipment may also be required depending on your roof type. For example, flat roofs or unusual roof materials may need specialised mounting systems, which can increase both material and labour costs.
Additional Costs of Solar Panel Installation
Optional extras can increase the total cost of your solar panel installation but can make it more efficient and compatible with your home's energy requirements.
| Equipment | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar battery | £4,500 – £6,500 |
| Bird proofing | £100 – £300 |
| EV charging point | £800 – £1,200 |
| Replacement inverter | £800 – £1,500 |
| Solar panel cleaning | £150 |
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Solar Battery
A solar battery is one of the most popular add-ons for solar panel systems. It allows you to store excess electricity generated during the day so you can use it in the evening or at times when your panels aren’t producing power.
The cost of solar panels and a battery in the UK is considerably higher than just the panels alone, but adding a battery can improve energy independence and reduce reliance on the grid.
Do I need a battery storage system when I get solar panels? If so, where does this get fitted and how much space does it need?
"It depends if you're home a lot during the day. If you are then a battery isn't necessarily required. If you're out during the day then a battery would be required to store the energy, so you can use it during the evening. Ideally in a garage, If not the loft. You can also fit some systems externally."
Bird Proofing
Bird proofing helps prevent birds from nesting underneath solar panels, which can cause noise, droppings, and potential damage to wiring over time. It usually involves fitting a mesh barrier around the edges of the system.
It’s a relatively small but useful add-on, especially in areas where pigeons are common.
EV Charging Point
Installing an electric vehicle (EV) charging point is a popular add-on for homeowners who are already investing in solar panels, especially if you plan to use solar electricity to charge your car at home.
Some properties may need additional electrical work, such as upgrading the consumer unit or running extra cabling from the main fuse box to the driveway or garage. This can add to the total cost if your home is not already set up for high-capacity charging.
Solar Panel Maintenance
Solar panel maintenance costs are usually minimal as they are designed to be durable and long-lasting, requiring minimal upkeep. The cost to clean solar panels once or twice a year is fairly low, and you might need to have them checked occasionally to ensure there isn’t any damage or visibly loose wiring.
However, the biggest additional cost associated with solar panels is the need for solar inverter replacement. While inverters are usually included in the initial installation cost, they typically don’t last as long as solar panels themselves. Most inverters need replacing after around 10–15 years of use.
Hidden Costs of Solar Panel Installation
Many homeowners factor in the purchase price of the panels themselves and the labour to install them, but there often some unexpected costs that can add up.
| Job | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Roof tile repairs | £100 – £400+ |
| Roof cleaning | £300 – £600 |
| Scaffolding (if not included) | £800 – £1,000 |
| Electrical upgrades | £150 – £1,000+ |
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Replacing Roof Tiles
Your roof needs to be in excellent condition before solar panels are installed. If tiles are cracked or damaged, you might need to get a professional to repair or replace your roof tiles before work can begin.
This is usually a relatively small job, but more extensive damage or a full roof repair can significantly increase overall costs.
Washing the Roof
It's usually recommended to have your roof cleaned before solar panel installation to ensure panels are fitted securely and perform efficiently. Moss, dirt, or debris can add extra preparation work.
Hiring Scaffolding
Scaffolding is often required for safe access during installation or roof work. While some installers include this in their quote, it is not always covered.
Scaffolding is required for almost all solar panel installations, with the following exceptions:
- Bungalows (may use a scaffold tower instead of full scaffolding)
- Ground-mounted systems
- Small repairs to a single panel (may use a cherry picker, but this is not common for full installs)
Electrical Upgrades
Some homes may need electrical upgrades before a solar panel system can be safely installed. This is more common in older properties where the existing consumer unit (fuse box) or wiring may not meet current safety standards.
Upgrades can include replacing an outdated fuse board with a modern consumer unit, improving earthing systems, or updating wiring to handle the additional load from a solar installation.
Cost of Removing Solar Panels
Solar panels may need to be removed for roof repairs, system upgrades, or when replacing older panels that are no longer performing efficiently.
Professional solar panel removal costs in the UK typically fall between £300 and £600 for a standard residential system. Electrical disconnection is usually included in this price, but in some cases may add a small extra cost of around £100–£150 depending on system complexity.
If scaffolding is required for safe access, this can increase the total cost by £800 to £1,000+, although it is sometimes already included in the contractor’s quote.
Labour rates for specialist removal work typically range from £50 to £100 per hour, depending on location and installer.
Once removed, panels should be disposed of responsibly through a licensed waste carrier or recycling centre. Some older panels may also be suitable for resale or manufacturer take-back schemes, depending on condition.
If a battery system is installed, additional care is needed during removal to safely disconnect and manage stored energy.
Cost of Replacing Solar Panels
If you already have a solar panel system installed, replacing individual panels (or all of them) can be a more cost-effective option than a full system replacement. If the mounting system, wiring, or roof setup is still in good condition, reinstalling new panels can reduce overall labour costs compared to a completely new installation.
In many cases, replacing an existing solar panel system can be around 20% to 40% cheaper than a completely new installation. A solar panel system that would normally cost £6,000 – £10,000 from scratch may instead cost around £4,000 – £7,000 if there is existing hardware that can be reused.
How Much Can You Save with Solar Panels?
Initial solar panel costs can be high, but fitting them often leads to long-term savings for most UK households, with the added benefit of earning money by exporting unused electricity back to the grid.
On average, a typical 4–5kW system can save around £400–£800 per year on electricity bills, depending on how much energy you use during the day. Over a 25–30 year lifespan, that can add up to £10,000–£20,000+ in total savings.
You can also earn money through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which pays you for excess electricity sent back to the grid. Most households earn an additional £50–£150 per year by exporting surplus electricity, depending on export rates and how much energy they don’t use themselves. Your energy supplier may offer varying rates or have a dedicated export tariff available for this.
Most homeowners break even on their solar panel investment in around 8–12 years. After that, the electricity your system generates is effectively much cheaper for the rest of its lifespan.
Are solar panels worth it long-term from a cost point of view? Is it worth it in 2026?
"In most cases, solar panels take around 6–10 years to pay for themselves. With today’s higher electricity costs and improved panel efficiency, solar is still very much worth it in 2026 for many homeowners. Systems typically last 25+ years, so once paid off, the remaining years are effectively free electricity, plus potential income from exporting excess power back to the grid."
It's also worth considering location here. While energy rates don't vary much throughout the UK, sunlight levels do. A property in the south of the country will almost certainly receive more sunlight and therefore generate more electricity than one in the north. Energy production can also vary within the same location as buildings and trees may cast shadows on the panels and reduce their output.
Roof orientation also plays a role in solar panel performance. Panels facing south will typically generate more electricity than those facing east or west, as they receive more direct sunlight throughout the day.
| Factor | Typical Range |
|---|---|
| Annual Savings | £400 – £800 |
| Export Earnings (SEG) | £50 – £150 |
| Break-even Point | 8 – 12 years |
| System Lifespan | 25 – 30+ years |
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Government Schemes to Help with Solar Panel Installation Costs
While the era of universal "feed-in tariffs" has ended, 2026 is one of the most affordable years to switch to solar due to a combination of tax relief, new government grants, and high export rates.
- 0% VAT Relief on solar panels and battery storage until 31 March 2027. To qualify, you must purchase the materials and installation together from an MCS-certified provider.
- Warm Homes: Local Grant is the successor to the ECO4 scheme, providing up to £15,000 for energy-saving improvements for eligible homeowners and private tenants in England. To qualify, you must have a total household income of less than £36,000 per year and live in a property with an EPC rating of D, E, F, or G.
- Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) paying you for excess electricity exported back to the grid, with rates of 15p to 24p per kWh.
- Regional Support through programmes like Nest in Wales and Home Energy Scotland interest-free loans for green upgrades like solar panels and heat pumps.
To access these grants and the SEG payments, your installation must usually be carried out by an MCS-certified contractor. Using a non-certified installer will disqualify you from most UK financial incentives.
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How to Maximise Your Savings with Solar Panels
To maximise your investment, it isn’t enough to just install the panels; you need to change how you interact with your home’s energy.
- Master the "Daylight Shift" by timing your chores. Modern solar savings rely on "self-consumption," so you should run high-draw appliances like washing machines and dishwashers during the peak sun hours of 11 am to 3 pm.
- Switch to a high-paying Smart Export Tariff. Don't settle for a basic rate. Premium "Smart" tariffs can pay up to 24p per kWh, which is significantly higher than the standard 5p offered by basic variable plans.
- Install a solar diverter for free hot water. A diverter detects when you have excess solar energy and sends it to your immersion heater, effectively storing sunshine as hot water rather than sending it back to the grid for a lower price.
- Use "Time-of-Use" charging if you have a battery. During winter or cloudy spells, you can program your battery to charge from the grid at ultra-low overnight rates (around 7p per kWh) and use that cheap power during the expensive daytime hours.
- Monitor your real-time generation via a mobile app. Use your inverter’s app to see exactly when your panels are peaking so you can boil the kettle or charge your devices for free without pulling any power from the grid.
- Invest in a smart EV charger with "Solar-Only" mode. If you own an electric vehicle, a smart charger can ensure your car is topped up exclusively using surplus solar energy that would otherwise be exported to the National Grid.
- Consider a solar battery for energy independence. While it adds to upfront costs, a battery allows you to store excess energy generated during the day for use at night, further reducing your reliance on grid electricity and maximising savings.
Checklist: Hiring a Solar Panel Installer Near You
When looking for the right company or contractor to fit your solar panels, it's always recommended to request quotes from more than one person. As such, MyJobQuote are able to help you find local solar panel installers within your surrounding area for fast, free quotes, without any further obligations.
Before you engage a specialist, ensure the following:
- Do they have the right qualifications? In order to be able to install solar panels, contractors should be NICEIC or NAPIT certified and should also have a Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Electrotechnical Services.
- How long has the company been in operation? Only use an established and professional company with a strong reputation, ideally using contractors that have at least 3 years experience.
- Do they have public liability insurance? Although not a legal requirement, most tradesmen will be at least covered against accidental damage and personal injury — especially when working at height or with electrical components.
- Do they have positive reviews and examples of their work? Search for their MyJobQuote profile and read any customer feedback, as well as examples of their work. Keep an eye out for local installations and ask for recommendations.
- Have you received at least three quotes? As with any trades job that needs doing, requesting quotes from more than one company is often standard practice. With MyJobQuote we can help to arrange this without any further obligation.
FAQs
How long does it take to earn your money back from installing solar panels?
The standard estimate for solar panel payback is about 8–12 years, depending on how much your system costs, your energy consumption, and whether or not you are exporting surplus electricity.
Are solar panels high maintenance?
No, solar panels are generally low maintenance, usually requiring cleaning once or twice a year and occasional inspectsions. They have no moving parts and are designed to withstand various weather conditions.
Do solar panels increase home values?
Yes, adding solar panels can increase the value of your home. Properties with solar installations are often more attractive to buyers due to lower energy bills and improved energy efficiency ratings.
How much does a 5kW solar system cost?
A typical 5kW system costs between £8,000 and £9,500, depending on the quality of panels, inverter type, and installation complexity. Adding battery storage will increase the total cost but can improve long-term savings.
How much would 8 solar panels cost?
8 high-efficiency solar panels typically cost around £6,500 fully installed. Using modern 450W panels, this creates a 3.6kW system, which is ideal for most UK semi-detached homes.
Are solar panels worth it?
Yes, solar panels are worth it for most households. They can significantly reduce your electricity bills, protect you from rising energy prices, and lower your carbon footprint. Over time, the savings on energy bills often outweigh the initial installation cost, making solar panels a smart long-term investment.
Will I still pay for electricity if I install solar panels?
In most cases, yes. Solar panels generate electricity during daylight hours, but you may still need to buy electricity from the grid at night or during periods of low sunlight. However, your overall energy bills should be much lower. Adding a battery can further reduce how much electricity you need to purchase.
How many years do solar panels last?
Most solar panels last 25 to 30 years or more, after which their efficiency gradually decreases. Many manufacturers offer warranties of 20–25 years, ensuring a high level of performance throughout most of the system’s lifespan.
Is there a way to get free solar panels?
In 2026, the Warm Homes: Local Grant (replacing ECO4) provides up to £15,000 in funding for low-income households in England to cover solar panels and other upgrades.
