There are currently 1.7 million solar panels in the UK.
Homeowners are investing in this, hoping it will increase their property value and make their homes more energy-efficient.
So, is this the case? Do solar panels add value to your house?
Read on to find out…
Do solar panels add value to your house?
Yes, in most cases. Houses with solar panels tend to sell for more than ones without them.
The increase in property value is usually between 10% to 15%. So, for a house originally valued at £500,000, this can push the total price up to £575,000.
However, this range comes with caveats, including:
- The type of property
- The location
- Market conditions
- The size of the installation (larger instalments will save the owner more money.
If your house is protected, potential buyers may want reassurance that planning permission was received.
Otherwise, it could negatively the property is worth.
How much do solar panels cost to install?
The average price of installation solar panels is around £8,000 in the UK. This could be as low as £5,000 for the most straightforward systems.
Or it could go up to £15,000 for more complex installations, such as period properties.
(Note: listed properties often restrict whether solar panels can be installed).
For a small property, 3KW may be suitable. But for a larger house, you could be recommended to get 9KW.
You should get a personalised price quote from several installers near you.
This allows you to compare the various options. Just remember that the least expensive route isn’t always the best.
Are some solar panels more valuable than others?
Yes. The size of your solar panel system determines how much money you save.
While larger solar panel installations cost more, they also save more. It’s a careful balancing act.
Will installing solar panels save me money?
Solar panels help reduce your electricity costs. But the amount it saves every year varies.
You should compare your savings with your usual costs. This allows you to calculate how long it will take to get a return on investment.
A qualified expert can guide you on this before you commit to the installation.
With solar panels, you can also sell excess electricity to the grid.
Can I get financial assistance with installing solar panels?
In the United Kingdom, grants and schemes are available to help you pay for solar panels.
You may be eligible for this if you meet the criteria.
Energy Company Obligation
If you’re considered to be in ‘fuel poverty’ by the UK government, you may be eligible for this.
It usually means that you’re a low-income household.
This installation has sometimes funded up to 100% of solar panel installations.
This scheme is due to last until 31st March 2026. It may be renewed at that point, but this is unclear.
Warm Homes: Social Housing Fund
This initiative gives funding to local authorities and social housing landlords.
This is aimed mainly at council housing. Installing solar panels is one of the things that this can cover.
Applications to this fund have already closed.
However, organisations have until 30 September 2028 to complete work once successful applications are announced.
The Green Deal
This is a loan from the government that you’ll need to pay back. The money will only be used for ‘green initiatives’ on your home.
Solar panels are one of the things covered by this.
‘Green funding’ from a bank
The public sector isn’t your only option for funding solar panels.
There are banks and other finance providers in the private sector that support this, too.
Many organisations label this as ‘green finance’. A specialist in this area could point you towards the companies that offer this.
