The sun gives us more energy in one hour than the world uses in a whole year. In the UK, we’re starting to make better use of it. Solar capacity has grown from almost nothing in 2010 to 18.9 GW in 2025 (Solar Power Portal).
According to data from the UK energy regulator, Ofgem, this is enough to generate electricity for up to 6.7 million homes each year - on sunny days, solar power can now meet over 30% of the country’s electricity demand (Solar Energy UK).
From 2027, all new-build homes in England will have solar panels and low-carbon heating as standard (MoneyWeek). That’s a big push towards net zero and a sign that for many of us, it’s not a question of if we’ll get solar power, but when and how.
This guide looks at what solar power is, how it works, the pros and cons of installing it at home, and how to make the most of it.
What Is Solar Energy & How It Works
Solar panels, also called photovoltaic (PV) panels, turn sunlight into electricity. They work even on cloudy days. Here’s how:
- Sunlight hits the panel’s silicon cells, creating an electrical current.
- An inverter turns this into the kind of electricity you use at home.
- You can use it straight away, store it in a battery, or sell it back to the grid.
Most panels last 20–25 years and need little maintenance. They’re generally made from silicon, which is abundant, but manufacturing still uses energy and resources, so quality matters. Always use an MCS-certified installer (MCS).
If you’re also fitting a heat pump or charging an electric car, combining them with solar panels can make your home much more efficient and cut bills even further.
There are lots of pros and cons to installing solar energy in your home. The section below pulls out a few of the key considerations.
Advantages of Solar Energy
1. Lower bills and long-term savings
Once your panels are installed, much of your daytime electricity comes from your roof, not the grid. For many homes, that means hundreds of pounds saved each year - and even more if you use a battery.
2. Better for the environment
Using the sun to generate electricity means fewer carbon emissions. For the average home, solar power can cut around one tonne of CO₂ each year according to the Energy Saving Trust, which is about the same as driving 3,600 miles in a petrol car.
3. Selling energy back to your provider
Once your system is connected, you may be able to earn £100-£200 a year by selling unused electricity back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) (The Eco Experts). To do this, you’ll need an MCS-certified solar panel installation, a smart export meter, and to apply to an SEG provider (you don’t have to use your current supplier).
According to Which? Magazine, SEG rates vary widely, with providers paying fixed rates between 1p/kWh and 15p/kWh, and some offering peak rates of up to 28p/kWh (April 2025).
How to Claim Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Payments
- Check you qualify – you’ll need MCS-certified solar panels and a smart export meter.
- Choose your SEG provider – you can pick from any SEG-licensed supplier.
- Compare rates – some pay a fixed price, others vary with market rates.
- Apply online – most suppliers have a simple form and will confirm your tariff.
4. Good for property value
Solar panels can improve your home’s EPC rating (Energy Performance Certificate) and make it more attractive to buyers or tenants.
Disadvantages of Solar Energy
1. High upfront cost
The first question most people ask is “How much will solar panels cost?”. A typical 4 kW system costs around £6,600–£8,100 (GreenMatch). Add a battery and it can be £14,900–£16,400. Finance and subscription models can spread the cost, but you’ll pay interest and may be tied into a contract for years.
Incentives for installing solar panels
At the moment, the UK government is offering 0% VAT on domestic solar installations until 2027 (Gov.uk), saving hundreds on upfront costs.
Some households may also qualify for ECO4 grants or local schemes that fully cover solar installation. These are aimed at low-income or fuel-poor homes, often with lower EPC ratings, but eligibility is strict, so check with your local council before making plans.
2. Weather and winter limits
Solar panels work all year round, but they generate less electricity in winter when the days are shorter. That means you’ll usually still need to use some electricity from the grid.
A home battery can help by storing solar energy for use at night or when it’s cloudy, and some can store cheaper off-peak electricity too. But domestic batteries aren’t big enough to cover all your energy needs through the winter.
Is my roof right for solar panels?
- Best direction: South-facing roofs get the most sun, but east or west can still work.
- Angle matters: 30–40° pitch is ideal.
- Watch for shade: Trees, chimneys or nearby buildings can block sunlight.
- Roof condition: Panels last 20–25 years, so it’s best to fit them to a roof in good shape.
3. Battery costs and lifespan
Batteries give you more control over your solar energy but add thousands to the cost. Most last 10-15 years (SunSave), so you may need to replace them during your panels’ lifetime.
4. Recycling challenges
Solar panels can be recycled, but UK facilities are still limited (The Eco Experts). As more panels reach the end of their life in the 2030s, recycling capacity will need to grow.
Are Solar Panels Worth It in the UK?
Environmentally – yes.
Financially – it depends.
If you have a suitable roof, use a fair amount of electricity during the day (or can shift your usage), and plan to stay in your home for 8-10 years or more, solar energy can pay for itself and protect you from future price rises.
If your roof is shaded, you use little power, or you may move soon, the payback will be slower. In that case, you might wait until you can combine the addition of solar panels with other changes, like a heat pump or EV charger, to make the most of your investment.
Tips to Maximise Solar Energy Benefits
- Use an MCS-certified installer and get at least three quotes.
- Compare SEG rates from multiple suppliers.
- Match your system size to your usage – bigger isn’t always better.
- Use big appliances (washing machine, dishwasher) in daylight hours.
- Keep panels clean and free from shade.
Never tamper with your meter to “boost” solar output – it’s unsafe, illegal, and can cause serious harm. See our guide to spotting and preventing meter tampering.