Buy Solar Panels in the UK: Complete Guide for Homeowners to Purchase, Compare and Save
If you are planning to buy solar panels for your home, this guide gives you all the details you need — prices, where to buy, which type to choose, and how to make sure you get value for money. You’ll also learn about finance and lease options that help spread the cost.
Solar panels are one of the most effective ways to cut energy bills and increase property value. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly how to purchase solar panels confidently and avoid the common mistakes buyers make.
Actionable takeaway: Record your yearly electricity usage and roof size before requesting quotes. It helps every installer give you a more accurate system design.
Why Choose Solar for Your Home
Electricity costs in the UK remain high, and every kWh you generate at home reduces your bills. When you get solar panels, you gain energy independence and lower running costs for decades.
Most homes see payback within 7 to 15 years. After that, your system continues to generate free electricity for at least another decade.
Typical Savings and Payback
Savings depend on system size and self-consumption rate.
A 4 kWp system can generate around 3,400 kWh per year in southern England. If you use half that energy at home, you could save £500 to £700 per year.
Over 20 years, that can mean £10,000–£14,000 in avoided costs, even before export payments.
Actionable takeaway: ask each installer for a personalised generation and payback report for your postcode.
How System Size Affects Output
- 1.5–2 kWp: small homes or low electricity use.
- 3–4 kWp: average UK homes.
- 5+ kWp: large properties with bigger roofs.
South-facing roofs at a 30–35° pitch deliver the best return. East or west orientations work well too, with only 10–20% less output.
Where to Buy Solar Panels in the UK
Many homeowners ask: “Where to buy solar panels?” The UK has several reliable routes, depending on your level of involvement and budget.
Local and National Installers
These companies handle supply, design, and installation. They’re the simplest route if you want one team to manage everything. Many let you buy solar panels direct from manufacturer UK partners or well-known brands.
Look for installers certified by MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme). Their work qualifies for export payments under Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
Online Retailers and Marketplaces
If you prefer DIY or want to compare products, search buy solar panel online or solar panels UK buy. Websites like Sunstore or Solar Trade Sales list a wide range of models and kits for homeowners who plan to hire their own electrician.
For buyers comfortable with installation planning, this can be a cost-effective route.
Wholesalers and Trade Suppliers
Some wholesalers also serve the public. Searching solar panels buy UK or solar panels to buy often brings up trade sites that offer competitive pricing. Always confirm warranty registration and whether you get full product support.
Actionable takeaway: always read the warranty terms on online listings — many cheaper listings exclude UK warranty coverage.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost to Buy
Many people ask: “How much are solar panels to buy in the UK?” The answer depends on size, roof type, and equipment brand.
Average Price Range (Supply and Installation)
System Size | Typical Cost Range | Average Output (Year) |
1.5–2 kWp | £2,000 – £3,500 | 1,500–2,000 kWh |
3–4 kWp | £4,500 – £6,500 | 3,000–3,800 kWh |
5–6 kWp | £6,500 – £9,000 | 4,500–5,800 kWh |
These figures include panels, inverter, mounting, and labour. Higher-end solar panels to buy from brands like JA Solar or LONGi will cost more but offer longer warranties.
Actionable takeaway: when comparing quotes, ask for a full price breakdown — panels, inverter, labour, scaffolding, and VAT.
Additional Equipment Costs
- Inverter: £600–£1,200 depending on type.
- Battery storage (optional): £3,000–£7,000.
- Mounting and cabling: £200–£600.
- Monitoring software: £100–£300.
You’ll find that buying panels is only part of the total cost — but the key long-term saving comes from reduced energy bills.
If you’re searching “how much do solar panels cost to buy” online, always use up-to-date data from trusted UK sources like Energy Saving Trust or Which?.
Financing and Funding Options for UK Homeowners
If you don’t want to pay the full amount upfront, several buying solar panels UK finance options exist.
Home Improvement Loans
Many banks and credit providers offer low-interest loans for renewable upgrades. Check if the repayment period aligns with your expected solar savings.
Green Energy Finance Plans
Some installers allow customers to buy a solar panel system using flexible monthly instalments. It spreads cost while still letting you own the system outright.
Local Council or Government Programmes
Check whether your council offers grants or incentives for buying solar panels. Schemes vary but can reduce upfront cost.
Actionable takeaway: always confirm who owns the panels at the end of the finance term — you should retain full ownership.
What Is the Best Type of Solar Panel to Buy
Many homeowners ask, “What is the best type of solar panel to buy?” For most UK homes, the answer is monocrystalline. These panels produce the most power per square metre and maintain higher efficiency over time.
Monocrystalline Panels
- Highest efficiency (18–22%).
- Work best on smaller roofs.
- Sleek black appearance.
Polycrystalline Panels
- Lower efficiency (15–17%).
- Slightly cheaper per panel.
- Good for large roofs with space.
Thin Film Panels
- Flexible and lightweight.
- Lower power output.
- Suitable for sheds or caravans.
If you search “solar panel buy UK,” you’ll find brands offering both standard and N-type models. N-type panels have better low-light performance and slower degradation.
Actionable takeaway: choose based on roof space, shade level, and expected payback period, not only upfront cost.
Are Second-Hand Solar Panels Worth Buying
Some people look for cheap ways to buy solar panels by choosing used stock. But the question remains: are second-hand solar panels worth buying?
Used panels are cheaper, but they often come without valid warranties. Micro-cracks, moisture damage, or loss of efficiency are common risks.
What to Check Before Buying Used Panels
- Ask for the panel’s serial number and confirm age with the manufacturer.
- Inspect for delamination or corrosion marks.
- Request an output test (IV curve test).
- Confirm the warranty transfer is valid.
You may buy solar panels wholesale from clearance stock, but ensure they meet MCS certification if you plan to claim export payments.
Actionable takeaway: used panels only make sense if they are under 5 years old, recently tested, and 50% cheaper than new.
Can You Buy Leased Solar Panels
Leased systems were popular a decade ago. If you see a home with leased panels, you might ask: “Can you buy leased solar panels?”
The answer depends on contract terms. Many leases last 20–25 years and restrict transfer.
What to Check Before You Buy
- Confirm ownership with the leaseholder or company.
- Ask for written permission to transfer the lease.
- Get a solicitor to review contract clauses.
- Confirm maintenance responsibilities after transfer.
Sometimes it’s easier to let the lease run rather than buying solar panels outright under those terms.
Actionable takeaway: request the full lease document before making any property offer.
How to Choose a Reputable Supplier
When you buy solar panels UK, reputation matters as much as price.
Key Checks Before You Sign
- Confirm the installer is MCS-certified.
- Ask for both product and performance warranties.
- Read reviews on Trustpilot and Google.
- Avoid suppliers with unclear pricing or no physical address.
You can also check the Energy Saving Trust website for guidance on registered installers. Reliable suppliers always issue warranty certificates in your name.
Actionable takeaway: never pay the full cost upfront — use staged payments linked to installation progress.
Step-by-Step Buying Checklist
Before you buy house solar panels, follow this list to make sure you don’t miss key steps.
- Measure your roof and note its direction.
- Collect a year’s worth of energy bills.
- Request at least three quotes.
- Ask each supplier what inverter and panel brands they use.
- Compare warranty terms and aftercare service.
- Check the expected output and payback estimate.
- Read the payment schedule carefully.
If you follow these steps, you’ll get a fair price and a reliable system.
Actionable takeaway: keep all documents — datasheets, warranties, and receipts — for insurance and resale purposes.
Where Do You Buy Solar Panels for the Best Value
For most homeowners, the best place to buy is from certified UK installers who offer both product supply and fitting. Searching where can I buy solar panels or where do I buy solar panels will show both national and local options.
If you prefer more control, you can buy solar panels direct from manufacturer UK distributors through authorised websites, ensuring you get authentic panels with proper support. Always compare three suppliers before you commit.
Actionable takeaway: shortlist installers based on accreditation, clear pricing, and verified customer reviews.
Common Questions
Where to Buy Solar Panels
You can buy solar panels from certified installers, online retailers, or direct distributors in the UK. Always check warranty and installation support.
How Much Are Solar Panels to Buy
Typical UK systems cost £4,000–£6,000 for a 3–4 kWp array including installation. Price varies by brand and location.
Are Second-Hand Solar Panels Worth Buying
Used panels are cheaper but carry risks like degraded output and no warranty. Buy only with proof of testing.
Can You Buy Leased Solar Panels
Yes, but only after reviewing contract terms. Lease transfers require written approval from the current leaseholder.
What Is the Best Type of Solar Panel to Buy
Monocrystalline panels offer the best balance of efficiency, lifespan, and aesthetics for UK homes.