Last updated: February 13th, 2024 at 04:24 am
On average, a 250-watt solar panel is commonly used for solar panel installations in the UK, with a cost ranging from £390 to £490 per panel. However, the cost of solar panels can vary depending on the size and type of the panel. As we discussed earlier in detail about the 4kw solar system, which is the most commonly used system in the UK, a 4kw solar panel system will cost you around £6000 to £6500 (without a battery) and will require an estimated roof space of 29 square meters.
How much do solar panels cost? This is a common question for those considering renewable energy solutions. The upfront cost of solar panel installation might seem high to most customers, but the payback period isn’t too long. In the table below, we highlight the system size, the number of required panels, the cost of solar panels, required roof space, annual savings, and the potential savings over the course of 25 years.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost?
| System Size | Panel Wattage | Number of Panels | Estimated Annual Savings | Estimated Savings after 25 years | Estimated Upfront Cost | Roof Space |
| 3KW Panel System | 250 watt | 12 | £840 | £21,000 | £5,200-£5,800 | 22 m² |
| 4KW Panel System | 250 watt | 16 | £990 | £24,750 | £6,000-£6,500 | 29 m² |
| 5KW Panel System | 250 watt | 20 | £1450 | £36,250 | £6,500-£7,000 | 32 m² |
| 6KW Panel System | 250 watt | 24 | £1450 – £1550 | £36,250 – £38,750 | £7,000-£8,000 | 43 m² |
The provided prices are meant to serve as indications, giving you an idea of what to expect and how much you would need to invest in installing a solar panel system, as well as the potential payback period on your investment. However, if you are seeking more accurate prices for a customized solar solution, please reach out to MAK Energy. We will provide you with a free price quote and offer a complimentary online survey.
What Are the Labour Costs?
Labor costs can be calculated in two different ways. One method involves calculating a per-day rate per installer, which typically ranges from £280 to £490 per installer per day. On average, the installation of a solar system requires two installers. The other approach to calculating labor costs for solar panel installation is based on a rate of 20 pence per watt. For instance, a 5kw solar system with a rate of 20 pence per watt would result in a labor cost of approximately £1,000.
When you receive a quote from an installer, labor costs are usually included in the quotation.
Factors Affecting Solar Panels Cost in the UK
For your convenience when choosing a system, in the table above, we have listed the upfront costs for different system sizes. However, several factors can influence the question of how much do solar panels cost? These factors include the following:
Type of Panel
Solar panels come in various types, with the most commonly used options being Monocrystalline, Polycrystalline, and Thin-Film. Monocrystalline is the preferred choice for most homeowners due to its high efficiency, reliability, and positive reviews. However, the cost of Monocrystalline solar panels is higher than the other two types. If you are seeking a more affordable solution, Polycrystalline panels are the best option for you. They offer reasonable efficiency and reliability at a lower price point. Monocrystalline solar panels typically cost around £1 to £1.55 per watt, while Polycrystalline panels range from £0.9 to £1.1 per watt.
System Size
The size of the solar system has a greater impact on the cost of solar panels than anything else. The larger the system, the higher the upfront cost will be. However, this cost variation is influenced by your energy needs and requirements. Taking a look at the most commonly installed system in UK households, the 4KW solar system, it will generally cost you around £6000 to £6500. A 3kw solar system falls between the range of £5200 to £5800, while a 6kw solar system, which produces more electricity and leads to greater savings on the electricity bill, is approximately priced around £7000.
Location and Labour Cost
The overall cost of solar panel installation also includes the labor cost. Labor costs often depend on factors such as location, roof type, and the distance from the installer’s location.
Installation Process
The installation of solar panels is a complex task and should be carried out by professional installers. Nonetheless, some customers prefer a DIY installation approach. However, if you choose to hire a professional installer, the cost of installation will depend on factors such as the system size, the level of installation complexity, and the duration required to complete the installation.
Additional Components to the System
Factors such as additional components can influence how much do solar panels cost. If you plan to include additional components, such as a solar battery storage system, during the solar panel installation, it will increase your upfront costs. However, if you combine these components with the installation process—whether it’s pigeon proofing or a solar battery storage system—it can lead to a reduction in the overall installation cost of the system.
How Long Do Solar Panels Take to Pay for Themselves?
The break-even time for solar panels in the UK depends on factors such as the installed system size, electricity rates, and export tariff. On average, solar panels take around 10 to 11 years to return on investment. However, with a larger system size, you can reach the break-even point in as little as 7 years.
How Much Do You Save with Solar Panels?
Solar panels generate electricity free of cost, allowing you to save hundreds to thousands of pounds every year by having them installed on your rooftop. The annual savings depend on the system you install and your energy consumption. On average, a solar panel owner can save between £800 and £1500 each year. Looking at the long-term perspective, with the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you can accumulate savings ranging from £21,000 to £40,000 over 25 years.
However, there are still some factors that can influence these savings:
- Your electricity consumption
- The efficiency of your solar panel system
- System size
If you wish to maximize your savings, consider using home appliances such as washing machines, dryers, and dishwashers during the day when solar panels produce sufficient electricity for these devices.
Do Solar Batteries Affect the Installation Cost?
Solar batteries are additional components for solar panel installations, and incorporating them alongside solar panels will certainly increase the overall cost of the solar panel system. However, it will enable you to harness more energy from the solar panels during the night or when they are not producing enough electricity. The average price for a 5.2Kw solar battery in the UK is around £5000 to £6000.
If you’re interested in installing solar panels with a solar battery storage system, MAK Energy is here to provide the best possible and professional assistance. We specialize in helping people transition to renewable energies seamlessly. Our customized solar panel solutions are budget-friendly, reliable, and environmentally friendly. These solutions can help you reduce your electricity bills and save thousands of pounds every year.
Is It Worth Installing Solar Panels?
The frequently asked question is whether solar panels are worth the investment. The answer is simple and clear: yes! Solar panels are worth installing. While the initial investment may seem high, the benefits that solar panels provide in the long run are exceptional. You can save thousands of pounds every year on your electricity bills and also reduce your carbon footprint, as solar panels emit very little or no carbon emissions. So, how much do solar panels cost upfront is just one aspect to consider in this advantageous equation.
What is The Average Cost of Solar Panels in the UK?
How much do solar panels cost? The answer depends on various factors. For domestic applications, solar panels on average cost between £5000 to £11000. However, the cost will depend on the system size, type of panels, and labor cost in your area.
What is the Maintenance Cost of Solar Panels?
Solar panels require very little maintenance. However, to increase efficiency and ensure a longer lifespan, maintaining solar panels is necessary. You can clean your own solar panels at home, or professional cleaning services typically cost around 7 to 15 pounds per panel.
Are There Incentives for Solar Panels?
Smart Export Guarantee
This initiative allows homeowners to receive payment for selling excess energy back to the grid.
ECO4 Scheme
Intending to replace ECO3, this scheme is scheduled to operate from April 2022 to 2026. It will expand grant eligibility due to LA Flex criteria.
Zero VAT
Recently, the UK introduced a policy where energy-efficient measures like solar panels, insulation, and heat pumps are exempt from VAT. This replaces the previous 5% VAT on renewable. The policy will be effective from April 2022 to 2027.”
Summary
When considering a solar energy system, one of the first questions people often ask is: how much do solar panels cost? On average, the cost of solar panels for a UK home ranges between £5000 and £10000. However, the cost can vary depending on factors like system size, panel type, and any additional components you choose to include. Despite the higher initial investment, solar panels offer exceptional benefits. They can save you thousands of pounds every year, reduce your dependence on grid electricity, increase your home’s value, and provide free electricity for more than 25 years.
If you have any queries related to the cost of solar panels, MAK Energy can provide you with the best answers, along with a no-obligation quote and a free online survey facility. Feel free to contact us and let us manage your solar panel installation.
