Cut Your Energy Bills with Solar Power

Yes — solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not direct sunshine. Even in Scotland, a well-positioned system can generate 750+ kWh per kWp annually. With current energy prices, the ROI is positive across all UK regions. The South of England sees the fastest payback periods (6–8 years), but northern regions still see 8–12 year paybacks.

The main schemes are: ECO4 (free or subsidised solar for eligible low-income households), Smart Export Guarantee (paid by suppliers for electricity you export to the grid), and 0% VAT on solar installations (since April 2022). Visit our Government Schemes page for full details and eligibility criteria.

The average payback period for a UK solar installation is 7–10 years, depending on system size, location, energy usage, and whether you add battery storage. With energy prices elevated, payback periods have shortened considerably since 2021. Our calculator factors in your region and tariff to give you a personalised payback estimate.

Possibly, if you meet the eligibility criteria. ECO4 provides free energy efficiency measures (including solar PV in some cases) for households on certain benefits (Universal Credit, Pension Credit, etc.) or with low EPC-rated homes. Eligibility is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Solar Panel Funding UK on our comparison page offers a free eligibility checker.

The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a UK government scheme that requires licensed electricity suppliers to pay solar panel owners for surplus electricity they export back to the national grid. Rates vary by supplier, typically between 5p and 15p per kWh. You register via your energy supplier's SEG tariff. It replaced the old Feed-in Tariff scheme.

In most cases, no. Rooftop solar panels are considered 'permitted development' in England, Wales, and Scotland, meaning no planning permission is needed. Exceptions include listed buildings, properties in conservation areas, and some flat roofs. Ground-mounted systems above a certain size may require planning permission. Always check with your local planning authority if in doubt.

The right system size depends on your electricity usage, roof size, and whether you add battery storage. As a rough guide: a 2-bed home might suit a 2–3 kWp system, a 3-bed home 3–4 kWp, and a 4-bed home 4–6 kWp. Use our free Solar Savings Calculator for a personalised recommendation based on your actual bill and roof.