Solar panels
Turn daylight into electricity you can use at home. Output depends on your roof orientation, shading and the size of the system.
- Typical install
- 1–2 days
- Maintenance
- Very low
- Pairs well with
- Battery storage
Use daytime electricity you have generated yourself
Works alongside battery storage
Low maintenance once installed
No fuel deliveries or storage
The basics
What solar panels actually does
Solar photovoltaic panels turn daylight into electricity you can use in the home. Output depends on roof orientation, shading and system size.
This is likely to suit you if…
- You have an unshaded roof, ideally south-facing to west-facing
- Your roof is in good condition and not due for replacement
- You use electricity during the day, or plan to add a battery
- There are no conservation restrictions on your property
Your options
Types of work an installer may recommend
Which option suits you depends on your property's construction, age and condition. A survey confirms what is possible.
Roof-mounted panels
The most common installation on a pitched roof.
In-roof panels
Set into the roof line for a flatter appearance.
Ground-mounted arrays
Where roof space is unsuitable and land is available.
Ask how the generation estimate was produced
A credible quote shows the assumptions behind its annual generation figure — orientation, pitch, shading and system size — not just a headline number.
Step by step
How the journey usually runs
- 1
Initial eligibility check
- 2
Roof and electrical survey
- 3
Design and quotation
- 4
Installation and registration
Paying for it
Funding routes that may apply
Funding is never guaranteed. These are the routes most often used for this type of work in the UK.
Energy efficiency programmes
Local authority schemes
Private purchase and finance
Schemes that can cover solar panels
Council Retrofit Partnership
A sample local authority delivered programme improving whole homes in specific postcode areas.
Who it may suit: Households within targeted areas, subject to property and income criteria.
InsulationSolarWindows and doors
Last reviewed: [Last reviewed date]
Social Housing Improvement Fund
A sample fund supporting improvements to social housing stock, applied for by the landlord.
Who it may suit: Social landlords improving lower-rated properties. Tenants cannot apply directly.
InsulationSolarHeating
Last reviewed: [Last reviewed date]
Initial results are indicative only. Final eligibility and funding are subject to checks by the relevant scheme, authority, funder or installer.
Be prepared
Questions worth asking an installer
What annual generation estimate are you using and why?
How will the system be registered with my network operator?
What scaffolding and access is needed?
What warranty applies to panels and inverter?
Every installer listed with us is checked for accreditation and insurance before they appear in your matches.
Questions
Common questions
Read next
Related advice
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Who funds these schemes, why criteria differ across the UK, and what actually happens between applying and installation.
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Practical questions to ask, and warning signs worth taking seriously.
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Keep exploring
Other home improvements
See what funding may apply to your home
A free check takes a couple of minutes, never affects your credit score, and shows the schemes and installers relevant to your postcode.