The main concerns people have on installing solar — answered

Energy Bills and SavingsFinancing and InvestmentPV/SolarInstallationRoof Value

Who do you speak to get a quote?

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The reason homeowners hesitate about solar isn't always technical. Often, it comes down to three practical questions: can I afford it, who do I speak to, and will it actually work on my home?

“Homeowners don't always hesitate about solar for technical reasons. Often, it comes down to three practical questions: can I afford it, who do I speak to, and will it actually work on my home?”

These are concerns we hear regularly, and there are straightforward ways to get the information you need before deciding whether solar is right for your home.

How affordable is solar in the UK?

The cost of solar depends on your home and the system that suits it, but looking beyond the upfront cost can give you a much clearer picture of affordability.

The Rooftop Valuation Report UK estimates an average upfront cost of £7,844.50 for the solar PV and battery system modelled across more than 15 million UK rooftops, with an average estimated payback period of around 7.9 years.

Qualifying residential solar panels and battery storage are currently eligible for 0% VAT, with the relief due to run until 31 March 2027. Some households may also be eligible for other government-backed energy-efficiency support.

Ultimately, affordability will look different for every household. Comparing the estimated cost, annual savings and payback for your own home can give you a useful starting point.

Where do I start if I'm considering solar?

A useful first step is understanding what could work on your particular rooftop. Our AI agent, Emily, can assess your rooftop and show different solar and battery options alongside estimates for electricity generation, annual savings and payback.

If you decide you'd like to explore installation, you can then request to connect with an installer who can assess your rooftop in more detail and provide a final design and quote.

When comparing installers yourself, MCS certification is also one useful credential to look for. MCS sets standards for small-scale renewable energy installations in the UK, including solar, battery storage and heat pumps, and certifies installers who meet those standards.

Does solar work well across the UK?

Yes. The report's UK modelling shows that solar and battery storage can deliver estimated savings across the country.

Across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, the system modelled produced average estimated annual electricity bill savings of more than £800.

So the question for an individual homeowner isn't simply whether solar can work in the UK, it's how well it could work on your particular rooftop. Factors such as your roof, location, household electricity use and system design can all influence the answer, which is why a personalised assessment is more useful than relying on UK averages alone.

Still unsure? Start with your own rooftop

Our AI agent, Emily, can assess your rooftop and show different solar and battery options alongside estimates for electricity generation, annual savings and payback.

→ Enter your postcode for a free, personalised assessment.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to speak to an installer to find out whether solar could work for my home?

Not necessarily. You can start with an initial rooftop assessment to understand your home's estimated solar potential, possible system options, estimated savings and payback before deciding whether you'd like to speak to an installer.

What information do I need to get started?

Your rooftop is the starting point. Emily uses your rooftop to provide an initial assessment of its solar potential and different system options, giving you an idea of what could work before you request a final assessment from an installer.

Does every home need the same solar and battery system?

No. The right setup will depend on the individual rooftop and household. The Rooftop Valuation Report itself models factors including roof characteristics, electricity consumption and solar generation when assessing rooftop potential.

Can I explore solar without committing to an installation?

Yes. An initial assessment can help you understand the options and estimated numbers for your home before you decide whether you want to take the next step and speak to an installer.

Figures from the Rooftop Valuation Report are modelled estimates and are not a guarantee of costs, savings or payback for an individual property. Government policies, funding and eligibility can change, so check current guidance before making a financial or installation decision.

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