Are solar panels worth it in 2025? What UK homeowners need to know

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If rising energy bills have left you frustrated, you’re far from alone. Many UK households are now considering alternatives to the grid, and a solar panels setup has become a top option. As governments push for greener living, renewable home energy is increasingly in the spotlight.

Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity you can use at home. They can lower bills, shrink your carbon footprint and even generate income through exporting surplus power. With technology advances and evolving incentives, more homeowners are exploring whether they should install the best solar panels. But the fundamental question remains: are solar panels worth it?

In this 2025 guide, we’ll walk you through how panels work, when they make sense (or don’t), and how much you could realistically save. We’ll also dig into funding and grants, roof suitability, maintenance and warranties. For a deep dive into pricing and return on investment, see our companion guide to the true cost of solar panels.

Are solar panels worth it? At a glance

Before diving into the numbers, it’s worth understanding why the question of whether solar panels are worth it comes up so often. Homeowners want to know if the upfront cost really balances out against the long-term benefits. The answer depends on factors such as energy prices, roof suitability, and whether you add extras such as a battery. Overall, though, solar is proving more valuable than ever in the UK.

Yes, for most UK households in 2025, solar panels are worth it.
A typical 3–5kW system can cut between £500 and £700 a year from bills (according to the Energy Saving Trust).
Adding a battery boosts savings by letting you use more of your own power.
Average time it takes for solar panels to pay for themselves: 10–12 years, with panels lasting 25–30 years.

You can also earn money through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), by selling unused electricity back to the grid. How much you earn will depend on what price you get for your exported electricity. Tariffs can vary widely, but if you keep on top of things, you should be able to get the 15p per kilowatt-hour we’ve used below.

Household size	System size in kW	Array cost	Electricity cost per year before solar	Savings (energy used and sold from panels)	Electricity cost after solar	Panels pay for themselves after
3-bed	3.6kW	£4,990	2,900 kWh @24.5p = £710	£540	£170	9 years
4-bed	5.4kW	£5,470	2,900 kWh @24.5p = £710	£780	-£70	7 years
5-bed+	9.9kW	£7,390	2,900 kWh @24.5p = £710	£1,370	-£660	5 years

As you can see, with a bigger system, you can be making instant savings, with a 5.4kW system covering your electricity bill and offering £70 surplus each year.

In numbers: UK solar panels in 2025

More than 1.3 million UK homes now have solar panels installed (Energy Saving Trust).
About 1.6 million rooftops feature solar technology nationwide (Solar Energy UK).
In May 2025, solar generated 11.6 per cent of the UK’s electricity – a record monthly share (Carbon Brief).
The UK has more than 14 GW of installed capacity, with targets of 40 GW by 2030 (Solar Energy UK).
Typical UK systems often produce 800–1,000kWh per kilowatt of panels each year, depending on location and conditions (Centre for Alternative Technology).
Uptake hotspots include Wale’s Ynys Môn (Anglesey), and North Cornwall, with the highest number of systems per head of population (Energy Saving Trust).

These figures show solar is no longer niche – it is becoming a mainstream energy source for the UK grid and for households alike.

What are solar panels?

Solar panels are devices that convert energy from sunlight into electricity you can use in your home. When sunlight hits the surface of a solar panel, it excites electrons inside special materials called photovoltaic (PV) cells. This process generates direct current (DC) electricity, which is then converted into alternating current (AC) by an inverter, so it can power everyday appliances.

There are two main types of solar technology:

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels generate electricity and are the focus of this guide.
Solar thermal panels use the sun’s energy to heat water for your home.

For most households, PV panels are the primary choice because they directly reduce electricity bills and can also earn you money through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) if you export excess energy back to the grid.

Before deciding if solar panels are worth it, it helps to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages. While the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks for most households, it’s important to be realistic about both sides.

Pros of solar panels

Lower energy bills: Generate your own electricity and rely less on expensive grid power.
Cut carbon emissions: Solar is a renewable, zero-emission energy source.
Energy independence: Reduce your reliance on fluctuating energy markets.
Long lifespan: Panels typically last 25–30 years with minimal maintenance.

Cons of solar panels

High upfront cost: Installation requires significant investment, though costs are falling.
Dependent on daylight: Output is reduced on short winter days and during cloudy conditions.
Roof suitability: Not all properties have the right orientation, space, or structural strength.
Maintenance costs: Inverters usually need replacement once in every 10–15 years, at a cost of about £1,000.

How do solar panels work?

If you’ve ever wondered how sunlight can power your home, the process is based on well‑understood physics. Photovoltaic (PV) cells are made from layers of semiconducting material, typically silicon. When photons from daylight strike the cell, they transfer their energy to electrons in the material, causing them to move. This movement creates an electric current.

The electric current that’s generated is then captured by a series of plates and wires within the solar panel and converted into a usable current that is delivered to your home. This energy can power anything in your home that runs on electricity, from your toaster to your TV.

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Solar panels are also designed with an anti-reflective coating and multiple layers to maximise light capture and efficiency. They also typically come encased in glass to better protect the cells. Within that case, there is also insulation to help regulate the temperature inside the panel. This is because if a solar panel gets too hot, its efficiency will drop.

Here’s how solar panels work, step by step:

Sunlight hits the panels – even on cloudy days, panels capture some photons (light particles).
Panels generate DC electricity – the PV cells release electrons, creating direct current (DC).
Inverter converts to AC – an inverter changes the DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which is what household appliances use.
Powering your home – the generated electricity flows into your home’s circuits, reducing the amount you need from the National Grid.
Excess energy – any electricity you don’t use can be exported to the grid under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) or stored in a solar battery for later use.

Are solar panels worth it in 2025?

The short answer is, yes, solar panels remain one of the most effective ways for UK households to reduce their energy bills and reliance on the grid. With electricity prices still high, and solar panel efficiency continuing to improve, many homeowners are considering the long-term benefits of solar panels.

But whether solar panels are worth it depends on your circumstances. Homes that use more electricity during the day, when panels are generating, will see greater savings sooner. Excess energy exported back to the grid earns payments through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), and adding a solar battery enables you to store unused electricity for evenings or cloudy days, increasing self-sufficiency and the chance to sell electricity back to the grid. The size, angle and shading of your roof will also influence how much energy you can generate.

As Lloyd Greenfield, founder of solar panel installer Glow Green, explains, many homeowners still make decisions based only on the headline price. “Customers often get quotes for lower-wattage panels because they’re cheaper upfront. But over the same roof space, a higher-wattage panel can generate far more energy and pay back better in the long run. Sometimes it’s worth spending a little more for a system that delivers greater savings over 25–30 years.”

Echoing this sentiment, Justin Webb of Wiltshire, who installed solar panels and a battery on his home more than two years ago, points out that solar offers more than just a financial return: “You don’t get any return on investment from paying your electricity bill. With solar, you’re future-proofing your home against rising prices and becoming more self-sufficient. For households with savings, solar can be a better yield than leaving money in the bank.”

You can read more of Webb’s process for how he maximised his savings with solar in our guide on the cost of solar panels.

In short, solar panels aren’t just about the financial returns. They also bring peace of mind, lower emissions, and offer protection against increasingly volatile energy markets.

Is my home suitable for solar panels?

Before investing in solar panels, it’s important to know whether your home is a good candidate. Several practical factors determine how much energy you’ll generate and how quickly you’ll see a return on your investment:

Roof space: Most households need 10–25m² of clear roof area for a typical installation.
Orientation: South-facing roofs are ideal, but east- and west-facing roofs can also generate strong returns. North-facing roofs tend to be less efficient.
Shading: Nearby trees, chimneys or tall buildings can block sunlight and reduce output. A professional survey will account for shading in the design.
Roof strength: Solar panels add weight, so your roof must be structurally sound. Installers can assess this during a site survey.
Permissions: Most homes don’t need planning permission, but if you live in a listed building or conservation area, you may need approval.

Placing solar panels beyond the roof

Panels don’t have to go on your main roof. With the right mounting systems and permissions, they can also be installed on flat roofs, garages, sheds or even in gardens.

Will solar panels work in low light?

Yes. Although the UK doesn’t get as much year-round sunshine as southern Europe, solar panels don’t need direct sun. They work whenever there is daylight. Output is lower on cloudy days, but the long summer days help balance this out. According to the Centre for Alternative Technology, typical UK solar panel systems will generate around 800–1,000kWh of electricity per year for every kilowatt of panels installed.

Greenfield emphasises that accurate design is critical, particularly in the UK, where we have low light for much of the year. “The pitch, orientation and shading of your roof all affect payback. Good installers use third-party verification, such as the Energy Performance Validation Scheme (EPVS), to ensure their projections are accurate. That way, you know the numbers you’re given reflect how your panels will actually perform in UK conditions.”

Solar panels have been installed at record rates in the first half of this year (Alamy/PA)

How much could I save with solar panels?

Savings from solar panels vary depending on your energy use, the size of your system, and how much sunlight your property receives. For many UK households, a standard 3–4kW system can cut hundreds of pounds from annual electricity bills, while also earning income through the SEG.

Typical savings from solar panels

Bill reduction: Using more of your electricity during the day means you save more, since less power needs to be imported from the grid.
Export payments: Any electricity you don’t use can be sold back to the grid under the SEG.
Battery boost: With a solar battery, you can store unused electricity and draw on it in the evenings, pushing your savings even higher.

For example, in our guide to the cost of solar panels, one Bristol homeowner we spoke to installed a 5.5kWp (kilowatt-peak) system without a battery and saw her first-year savings reach more than £570, split between reduced bills and SEG income. With installation costs of about £8,750, she expects to break even in about 12 years, even after factoring in the cost of replacing the inverter. As panels typically last 25–30 years, that leaves at least a decade of essentially free electricity. You can read the full breakdown of her savings and ROI estimates in our previously mentioned guide.

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According to data from the Centre for Alternative Technology, UK solar panel systems typically generate 800–1,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per year for every kilowatt (kW) installed. That means even modest systems can deliver meaningful reductions to annual bills.

With this in mind, Greenfield advises against chasing the lowest upfront price. “We often see homeowners offered lower-wattage panels because they cost less. But over 25–30 years, higher-wattage panels will generate more electricity in the same space and deliver bigger savings. Sometimes spending a little more upfront leads to far greater long-term returns.”

Explore your numbers

If you’d like to see how solar could work for your home, the Energy Saving Trust offers a free solar calculator that factors in your location, shading and usage.

A solar battery ready to be fitted at a house in Watford (Howard Mustoe/The Independent)

Should I add a solar battery or a diverter?

Adding a solar battery or diverter can significantly increase the value of your solar system, but both come with extra upfront costs.

Solar batteries

A solar battery stores unused electricity so you can use it later, such as in the evening or on cloudy days. This means you rely less on the grid and make the most of the power your solar panels generate. While a battery adds to the installation cost, it can shorten the payback period by boosting your self-consumption.

Greenfield says that batteries are now becoming part of the default package most homeowners choose. “Over 95 per cent of our customers take a battery with their installation, and about 10 per cent come back within a year to add a second one. With today’s smart tariffs, you can even charge your battery overnight on cheap electricity, run your home or charge your EV, then top it up again with solar during the day. It’s transforming how people think about their energy use.”

For more information, read our guide on solar battery storage and how it works.

Solar diverters

A diverter channels surplus solar electricity into your immersion heater to provide hot water. It’s a relatively low-cost add-on that can reduce gas or electricity bills further by making better use of your solar power. While it won’t save as much as a solar battery, it’s a simple way to get more from your system if a battery isn’t in your budget.

Is it worth it?

Battery: Higher upfront cost but maximises savings and self-sufficiency.
Diverter: Affordable add-on that increases efficiency by heating water with excess electricity.

Choosing between them depends on your household’s budget, energy use and long-term priorities.

What funding or grants are available?

Government support can make solar panels even more cost-effective, though the options vary depending on your circumstances and where you live in the UK.

Current schemes

Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): Earn money for exporting excess electricity to the grid. All major energy suppliers are required to offer SEG tariffs.
ECO4: Aimed at low-income households and those in fuel poverty, this scheme can cover energy efficiency improvements, sometimes including solar.
ECO4 Flex (LA Flex): Delivered through local authorities, this extension of ECO4 enables councils to set their own eligibility rules, meaning more households may qualify for support.
Regional grants: Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales all run their own programmes, which may include support for solar installations.

These incentives change regularly, so always check the latest government guidance before applying.

For a more detailed breakdown of all the available schemes across the UK, eligibility requirements and how to apply, see our dedicated guide to solar panel grants and funding.

Solar panel maintenance and lifespan

One of the biggest advantages of solar panels is that they require very little upkeep. Once installed, they work quietly in the background for decades, with minimal attention from homeowners.

Solar panel maintenance

Cleaning: In most parts of the UK, rainfall helps keep panels relatively clear of dust and dirt. If you live near a busy road, industrial site or in an area with lots of bird activity, an occasional professional clean may be worthwhile. Find out more in our guide on how to clean solar panels.
Inverter checks: The inverter, which converts electricity from DC to AC, is the component most likely to need attention. Expect to replace it once in 10–15 years, at a cost of about £1,000.
Monitoring: Many systems come with apps or monitoring tools that let you track performance. Sudden drops in output can indicate a fault.

Lifespan of solar panels

Solar panels are designed to last 25–30 years, with gradual efficiency losses over time. Most come with long performance warranties that guarantee at least 80–85 per cent output after 25 years.

Given their gradual degradation over time, Greenfield explains why warranties matter: “Some panels only carry a 15-year warranty, while others extend to 30 years. Always check what’s included, and make sure you’re buying from a manufacturer with a proven track record in the UK market.”

How solar panels affect house value

Solar panels can make a property more attractive to buyers who want lower running costs and a greener lifestyle. With energy bills remaining high, energy-efficient homes are in strong demand, and solar panels are often seen as a selling point rather than a drawback.

Potential benefits of adding solar panels

Higher resale value: Studies suggest that homes with solar panels may sell for more than similar properties without them.
Faster sales: Buyers are increasingly looking for homes that come with built-in energy savings.
Long-term appeal: A system with a long warranty can reassure buyers that they’ll continue to benefit for many years.

Key considerations

Some buyers may still be cautious if panels were installed under older feed-in tariff schemes with complex contracts attached. Make sure any paperwork is clear and transferable to new owners.
Aesthetics can also play a role. Modern all-black panels tend to be more visually appealing than older blue-tinted ones.

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“When buyers see a panel with a 25- or 30-year warranty from a reputable manufacturer, it gives them confidence,” Greenfield says. “It shows the system isn’t just saving money now, but is a long-term asset for the property.”

For more on this, see our guide on whether solar panels increase your property value.

Solar power contributed to the record high renewables generation (Gareth Fuller/PA) (PA Archive)

The future of solar panels in the UK

The growth of solar power shows no sign of slowing. The UK already has more than 14 GW of installed solar capacity, and industry bodies such as Solar Energy UK are calling for a target of 50 GW by 2030. That would mean multiplying current capacity nearly fivefold in just a few years.

Large-scale solar farms will help, but much of this growth is expected to come from residential rooftops. With about 30 million homes in the UK, the potential is vast, especially since only a fraction currently have panels. As installation costs fall and smart tariffs become more common, households are likely to see even greater incentives to go solar.

At the same time, innovations such as improved battery storage, vehicle-to-grid charging and more efficient solar panels will continue to reshape the economics of solar. For homeowners in the future, solar energy may no longer be an experimental option. It’s becoming a central part of the UK’s energy system, with benefits that reach from individual households to the national grid.

FAQs

What factors determine if solar panels are worth it?

Whether solar panels are worthwhile depends on multiple variables: how much electricity you use in daylight hours, roof orientation and shading, your local sunlight levels, system size and efficiency, and whether you invest in battery storage. Homes that use more energy during peak solar production tend to see quicker returns. Also, export tariffs (through the Smart Export Guarantee) and installation quality influence overall value. A robust, well-matched system is more likely to deliver strong long-term benefits.

What typical payback period can I expect for solar panels?

In 2025, many UK households are seeing payback periods (the time it takes for solar panel to have produced enough free energy to cover their initial cost) in the range of 8–12 years, depending on energy use and export rates. Systems with batteries or households that shift consumption to daytime may recoup faster. After the payback point, electricity generation is effectively “free” aside from maintenance. Given that most panels last 25–30 years, many homeowners enjoy more than a decade of net gain. Keep in mind inverter replacement and tariff changes can affect outcomes.

How much do export payments (SEG) boost the case?

Exporting excess electricity through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) can meaningfully support your investment. Typical rates are in the 12–15p per kilowatt-hour range, though they vary by supplier. Rather than letting your surplus go to waste, you earn a return, improving your effective savings. For households with modest consumption, surplus-export income can sometimes shorten payback by up to two years. Always check which SEG tariffs are available in your area when comparing quotes.

Should I borrow to pay for solar panels?

It’s possible to finance solar panels with a loan, but you should weigh up the costs carefully. If the repayments are lower than your expected annual savings, it can make sense. However, interest charges add to the total cost and lengthen payback. If you have savings, paying upfront usually gives the best return. Compare offers, check interest rates and fees, and consider how long you plan to stay in the property before deciding.

Are there homes for which solar panels aren’t worth it?

Yes, in some cases, solar may not be ideal. Homes with very shaded roofs, north-facing roofs, or limited roof area may struggle to generate enough energy to justify costs. If your electricity use is almost entirely overnight (ie, minimal daytime demand), returns may be weak unless you add battery storage. Also, short-term homeowners (eg, planning to move within five years) may not recoup investment fully. In those circumstances, other energy-efficiency upgrades may be a better first step

Do I need planning permission for solar panels?

For most UK homes, solar panels are considered “permitted development,” so you don’t usually need planning permission. Exceptions include listed buildings, conservation areas and national parks, where consent may be required. Rules also cover how far panels can project from the roof and ground-mount placement. Always check with your local council or installer first to ensure compliance and avoid issues later.

Can I install solar panels myself?

DIY solar kits exist, but professional installation is strongly recommended for safety, performance and eligibility for schemes such as the SEG. Installers handle system design, structural checks, electrical wiring and certification. Poor installation can reduce efficiency, void warranties and create fire or safety risks. Choosing an accredited, experienced installer helps ensure your system performs as promised and remains compliant.

Should I get a solar battery?

A battery increases self-consumption by storing daytime solar for evening use, boosting savings and resilience. It adds significant upfront cost, though smart tariffs can improve the economics by enabling overnight charging at cheaper rates. For many households, a battery pays off over time, especially with high evening usage or EV charging. Whether it’s right for you depends on budget, usage patterns and your appetite for energy independence.

Should I install a solar diverter?

A solar diverter is an affordable add-on that sends surplus solar electricity to your immersion heater instead of exporting it to the grid. It’s a simple way to reduce hot water costs and increase the value you get from your system without investing in a battery. Savings are modest compared with storage, but diverters suit households with regular hot water demand and limited budgets.

How could solar panels affect my house price?

Solar panels are increasingly seen as a selling point because buyers value lower running costs and energy security. Homes with panels can command a premium or sell faster than comparable properties without them, particularly when the system is modern, looks good and has long transferable warranties. Keep paperwork organised and ensure any export or tariff arrangements are clear, to smooth the sale process.