Reduce your energy bills and lower your carbon footprint with a professionally installed solar panel system. FirQuote connects you with MCS-accredited solar installers who assess your property and give you a clear, accurate price.
Get Free Solar Panels QuotesBefore you get quotes, here is what every homeowner should understand about Solar Panels.
Most domestic solar panel installations do not require planning permission. However, listed buildings, conservation areas, and flat roofs may have restrictions. Your installer should confirm this before work begins.
A typical domestic solar panel system costs between £5,000 and £12,000 depending on the number of panels and whether battery storage is included. Costs have fallen significantly over the last decade.
MCS stands for Microgeneration Certification Scheme. Installers must be MCS accredited for you to claim any government incentives including the Smart Export Guarantee. Always check your installer is registered.
Most UK homeowners see payback on a solar panel installation within 8 to 12 years, depending on energy usage, roof orientation, and local irradiance. Battery storage can improve returns further.
Not every roof is ideal for solar panels. South-facing roofs with a pitch of between 30 and 40 degrees receive the most sunlight in the UK, but east and west-facing installations still generate meaningful output. A qualified installer will assess your roof's orientation, pitch, shading from trees or neighbouring buildings, and structural condition before recommending a system size. Flat roofs can also accommodate solar panels using angled mounting frames.
Solar panels generate electricity when the sun shines, but peak generation does not always coincide with peak household demand. Battery storage allows you to store surplus energy generated during the day for use in the evening. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) allows you to sell any surplus electricity you do not use back to the grid through your energy supplier. Only MCS-accredited systems qualify for the SEG.
MCS accreditation is the minimum standard to look for when choosing a solar installer. Beyond that, look for a company that provides a full site survey before quoting, gives you a detailed system specification in writing, and is transparent about realistic energy generation estimates. Be cautious of installers who offer unusually high generation forecasts or who pressure you into signing on the day.
Select your nearest town to find local specialists.