The Cost of Solar

The Cost of Solar: What You’re Really Paying For (and Why It’s Worth It)

Thinking about going solar in 2025? You’re not alone. With energy prices on the rise and sustainability top of mind, more UK homeowners are making the switch.

But how much does solar really cost — and what affects the price?

This guide breaks it down simply and clearly, helping you understand the cost, your options, and the long-term value of solar energy.

How Much Does Solar Cost in the UK (2025)?

Here’s a general guide based on system size:

System SizeSuitable ForEstimated Cost (Installed)

3kW Small homes low usage £5,500 – £7,500

4kW Average households £7,000 – £9,500

6kW Larger homes or higher usage £9,000 – £12,000+

Battery storage (optional) adds £2,000 to £8,000, depending on type and capacity.

What Affects the Cost of a Solar System?

1. Equipment Quality

Higher-quality panels and inverters:

• Last longer (25+ years)
• Are more efficient in all weather conditions
• Offer better warranties and long-term performance

Lower-cost systems may seem appealing but often produce less energy and degrade faster.

2. Battery Storage

Batteries let you:

• Store solar power for night-time use
• Reduce your need to draw from the grid
• Keep appliances running during power cuts

They’re optional, but many homes find the additional cost worthwhile over time.

3. Installation Conditions

• Roof access and angle can affect labour time
• Older roofs may need reinforcement
• Ground-mounted systems require additional hardware

4. Optional Extras

Some customers choose to add:

• EV charging equipment
• Smart energy monitoring systems
• Export meters for grid payments

These add convenience and long-term value, but increase upfront costs slightly.

What Is the Payback Time?

Most homeowners in the UK recover the cost of their solar investment in 6 to 10 years, depending on usage and whether a battery is included.

Setup, Typical Payback Time, Estimated Annual Savings.

Solar panels only 6–8 years, £600–£1,000

Solar + battery, 8–10 years, £1,000–£1,800

After that, your energy is effectively free for 15 to 20 years – and you may even earn money by selling unused energy back to the grid.

What’s the Long-Term Return on Investment?

Going solar isn’t just a short-term saving - it’s a long-term gain.

Once your system has paid for itself, your electricity is effectively free for years to come. Here's what that can look like:

• Typical savings of £1,000 to £1,500 per year
• Over 20 to 25 years, that adds up to £20,000 to £30,000 or more
• Add SEG payments for exported energy, and the return increases even further

With energy prices still rising, solar gives you the power to take control of your home’s energy and protect your finances long-term.

Can You Go Off-Grid?

It’s possible, but most UK homeowners opt to stay connected to the grid for added reliability.

That said, many homes today are mostly self-sufficient, using the grid only as a backup. This provides the benefits of solar independence without full isolation.

Want to Know What It Would Cost for Your Home?

Every home is different, and every solar system should be custom designed to match.

Fill out our short form and we’ll send you:

• A free personalised estimate
• Guidance on battery and system sizing
• Honest advice from experienced professionals