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How much do solar panels cost in the UK (2026)?

Last updated 14 October 2026. Figures checked against the sources listed at the end.

A typical 4.5kWp home solar panel system costs around £7,600 to install, according to the Energy Saving Trust. Government data puts the median price at £1,546 per kW for 4 to 10kW systems installed in 2025/26, and the Energy Saving Trust estimates payback at 9 to 12 years with export payments.

How much do solar panels cost by system size?

The government figures come from MCS-certified installations across the UK, measured per kW of total installed capacity. Larger systems cost less per kW.

How much roof space do solar panels need?

A 4.5kWp system typically covers 20 to 30m² of roof using around 12 panels [1]. An unshaded south-facing roof is ideal. East or west roofs tend to get around 15 to 20% less energy, and north-facing roofs aren't recommended [1].

How long do solar panels take to pay for themselves?

Energy Saving Trust payback estimates with export payments, based on July 2026 fuel prices for England, Scotland and Wales [1].

Savings depend on how much electricity you use yourself. The Smart Export Guarantee typically pays around 12p for each unit you export, while buying a unit usually costs more than twice that [1]. So using the power at home is worth more than selling it.

Worked example: estimating a price from the government data

For a 4.5kW system, multiply by the 2025/26 median for 4 to 10kW systems: 4.5 × £1,546 is about £6,960 [2]. That sits a little below the Energy Saving Trust's typical £7,600 [1], which is expected because a median ignores harder installs. If a quote for a similar unshaded roof is well above both figures, ask what's driving it, such as scaffolding, roof access or a battery.

What affects the price of solar panels?

• System size. More panels cost more in total but less per kW [2].
• Roof access. Difficult access and scaffolding add cost, while existing scaffolding can lower it [1].
• Panels or tiles. In-roof or integrated systems cost more than standard panels [1].
• Roof condition. A roof that needs renewing should usually be done first [1].

What should a solar panel quote include?

Ask each installer to show the system size in kWp, the number and model of panels, the inverter and its warranty, scaffolding, any battery priced separately, and an estimate of yearly generation. The Energy Saving Trust recommends getting quotes from at least three MCS-certified installers [1].

What are the red flags in a solar quote?

• Not MCS certified. The Energy Saving Trust advises using MCS-certified installers [1]. You can check on the MCS installer search.
• Savings promised as a fixed figure. Real savings depend on your usage, tariff and location [1].
• No mention of the inverter. Panels should last 25 years or more, but the inverter usually needs replacing after around 12 years [1].

Do I need planning permission for solar panels?

Panels on houses usually count as permitted development and don't need planning permission. Listed buildings, conservation areas and national parks may have extra restrictions, so check with your local planning office. Your installer should register the system with the local network operator [1].

Sources

1. Energy Saving Trust, Solar panels: costs, savings and benefits explained.
2. Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Solar photovoltaic (PV) cost data, 2025/26 release published 28 May 2026 (total installed capacity basis, from the MCS Installation Database).

All sources checked on 14 October 2026.