The cost of installing solar panels can vary significantly based on a number of factors, from the size of the system you need to the type of panels you choose. While solar technology has become more affordable over the years, the upfront investment can still seem daunting. However, understanding the costs and benefits can help you make an informed decision that fits your energy goals and budget. See the cost of installing solar panels and its factors below.
Average Cost of Solar Panel Installation in the UK
System size, type of property, and other features like battery storage determine how expensive solar panel installation is in the UK. Perfect for a 2-3 bedroom house, a typical 4kW solar panel system usually runs about £8,000, including installation (without inverter and solar batteries). Bigger houses with a 6kW system may expect to pay about £10,000.
The following is a table on the projected cost breakdown depending on the system scale:
| System Size | Property Type | Battery Storage (kWh) | Battery Storage Cost | No. of 250W Panels | Required Space | Solar Panel Cost | Break-even Period | Total Cost (Solar + Battery) |
| 3kW PV System | Terraced | 5 | £4,500 | 12 | 20m² | £6,000 | 10 years | £10,500 |
| 4kW PV System | Semi-detached | 8 | £8,000 | 16 | 27m² | £8,000 | 11 years | £16,000 |
| 5kW PV System | Small detached | 10 | £9,000 | 20 | 33m² | £9,000 | 12 years | £18,000 |
| 6kW PV System | Large detached | 12 | £10,000 | 24 | 40m² | £10,000 | 13 years | £20,000 |
In addition to the basic solar panel costs, there are other factors that add to the total installation price:
Inverter Cost: The inverter is essential for converting the DC power produced by solar panels into usable AC power. A typical 4kW inverter costs around £700 to £900. More advanced inverters, such as hybrid or microinverters, may cost more.
Battery Storage: As shown in the above chart, adding battery storage allows you to store excess solar energy for use during non-sunny periods. A 5kWh solar battery can cost around £4,500, with larger systems (such as 10kWh or 12kWh batteries) costing upwards of £9,000-£10,000. Battery storage helps improve energy independence and long-term savings.
Installation Cost: How much does it cost to install solar panels? Labour costs for installation are generally included in the quote. It is expected to cost £300 per person. However, it is worth noting that installation typically takes one day for a standard system. Installation costs can vary depending on the roof condition and the complexity of the electrical setup.
Maintenance Costs: While solar panels require minimal maintenance, they should be cleaned regularly for optimal performance. Cleaning typically costs between £4 and £15 per panel. Annual service checks for your system may cost around £100-£200.
Additional Notes: It’s often more cost-effective to purchase a solar battery at the same time as the panels rather than adding it later. This can improve your energy independence and save money on your electricity bills.
Factors Affecting Cost of Solar Panel Installation
From system size to installation difficulty, several factors affect the overall cost of installing solar panels. The main factors influencing the solar setup cost include:
System Size
The cost of fitting solar panels directly correlates with the size of the system. Most residential systems in the UK range from 4 kW to 6 kW. Larger systems (10 kW or more) are typically for larger homes or commercial use.
Panel Type & Efficiency
Higher-efficiency panels (monocrystalline) are more expensive but can be more suitable for areas with less sunlight. Given the UK’s generally overcast climate, efficient panels are often preferred, though polycrystalline or thin-film panels are cheaper but less efficient.
Roof Condition and Accessibility
Weight is a significant factor in solar panel installation. Costs could rise if your roof requires structural strengthening or repairs to support any PV panels. Additional fees may come when more accessories are needed, like specific mounting for flat roofs, slate tiles, and multi-angle installations.
Inverters & Battery Storage
Inverters, including string, microinverters, or hybrid models, are necessary to convert solar power into usable electricity. Microinverters and hybrid inverters are typically more expensive but are ideal for systems with shading issues. Adding battery storage also increases costs but allows for storing excess energy for later use, enhancing energy independence.
Location and Regional Price Differences
Labour expenses differ throughout the United Kingdom. Higher labour rates mean homeowners in London and the South East may pay more for installation; those in rural areas could have extra travel costs for installers.
Government Incentives and Grants
Government programs include the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) allows you to sell surplus energy back to the grid. There are also various government schemes like Green Homes Grants that may offer partial financial support, but availability and eligibility can change.
How Much You Can Save with Solar Panels?
When you install solar panel on home roof, it can lead to significant energy savings and reduce reliance on the National Grid. The amount you save depends on factors like system size, electricity consumption, and energy prices.
Annual Energy Savings
Among UK houses, a 4kW solar panel installation can save around £700 annually on electricity costs. Larger systems produce more power, increasing possible savings as it cover most of the household energy requirements. Homeowners can optimize expense savings by using electricity during daylight hours.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Payments
Homeowners can sell extra electricity back to the grid via the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Surplus energy allows households up to £360 annually. To consider this as part of your savings, you need to apply as an SEG Licensee.
Payback Period and Return on Investment
Over ten to twelve years, most households break even on the cost of solar panel installation. All future savings land right in your pocket after the system pays for itself. Rising energy costs and inflation are also factors in your solar investment ROI. When your monthly bill of £100 goes up to £150 within a three year span, you significantly save more over time.
Should You Invest in Solar Panels?
Rising energy prices have many households searching for methods to save money and take more control over their power use. Although initially, the cost of the solar panel is high, over time the return on investment is significant.
Initial Costs vs Electrical Bills
The average UK household energy cost in 2025 is around £50–£100 monthly. This comes to £600–£1,200 yearly. If you spend £12,000 to set up solar panel system for your home, your ROI is achieved in around 10 years. Energy generated after 10 years is already a profit. Given the expected lifespan of panels to reach more than 25 years, that is 15 possible years of profit generated by a renewable energy source.
Portable Solar Panels as an Alternative
There is still hesitation with the price tag of traditional solar systems, Fortunately, portable solar panel systems provide a reasonably priced and flexible alternative for homeowners who are not committed to a complete roof-mounted installation. For someone trying to conserve money yet still gain from solar energy, a portable panel and power station can still lower dependence on your local grid.
The EcoFlow 400W Portable Solar Panel is an excellent example of a system. Its remarkable 23% conversion rate helps it gather sunlight, effectively providing a consistent energy source. High 400W solar input guarantees faster charging for off-grid configurations, outdoor power stations, and home backup systems.
Is It Worth It?
Both a portable solar panel and a complete roof-mounted system assist in lowering reliance on the grid and electricity prices. Regardless of the solar panel cost, it can save you money over the long run. To ensure your investment is worth it, consider buying EcoFlow solar solutions to be independent of your local UK grid today!
Conclusion
The cost of installing solar panels may seem like a significant investment, but the long-term savings on electricity bills make it worthwhile. With government incentives, reduced energy costs, and the option to sell excess power, homeowners can achieve a solid ROI. To ensure your investment lasts a long time and can achieve a shorter ROI period, consider EcoFlow solar solutions for your home.
FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels UK?
A 4kW solar panel system runs about £8,000, powering a 2-3 bedroom house. Larger systems or 6kW setups can reach £10,000 or more. These costs are for the panels only. Batteries to store power is an additional expense. System size, type of property, and extra features all affect the cost of installing solar panels in the UK.
What is the payback period for solar panels in the UK?
In the UK, solar panels typically pay for themselves between 6 and 12 years. The period is based on the average electrical bill and costs of standard solar panels. Your ROI also relies on system size, energy consumption, and power rates. The payback period can further decrease with rising energy and solar panel costs.
How many solar panels do I need for a 4-bedroom house?
Usually covering its electrical needs, a 4-bedroom house calls for a 5kW-6kW solar panel installation. This means putting 16–20 solar panels in place depending on panel efficiency and household energy use.
How much does it cost to add solar panels to an existing system?
Expanding a current solar panel system calls for new panels, a better inverter, and possible structural changes, all of which come with expenses. Usually, depending on kind and efficiency, adding new panels runs between £250 and £500 per panel. Should the current inverter prove unable to handle extra capacity, replacement might cost £900 or more.