Solar Installers in the United Kingdom
Compare published solar company information across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, verify MCS credentials directly, and request quotes.
Find Solar Installers by City
Browse 50 cities across the UK. Select a city to see local installers, ratings, and reviews.
UK Solar Energy: Market Overview
16.6 GW
Installed Capacity
1.3M+
Solar Installations
70 GW
2035 Target
0% VAT
On Residential Solar
The UK Solar Market in 2026
The UK has over 16.6 GW of installed solar capacity spread across more than 1.3 million installations. Despite its reputation for cloudy weather, the UK receives enough solar irradiance to make residential and commercial solar systems financially viable in every region. Southern England receives around 1,100 kWh/m² per year, while Scotland and Northern England still receive 900–1,000 kWh/m².
The government's target of 70 GW of solar capacity by 2035 - more than four times current capacity - signals strong long-term demand for qualified installers. The solar industry employs over 12,000 people and is growing at roughly 15% per year.
Since April 2022, residential solar installations are VAT-exempt at 0%, reducing the upfront cost of a typical 4kW system to between £5,000 and £8,000. Payback periods now sit between 6 and 8 years depending on location, energy usage, and export rates.
Key Incentives and Policies
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
Licensed energy suppliers must pay households for surplus electricity exported to the grid. Rates range from 4–6p/kWh, with some suppliers offering fixed rates above 12p/kWh. Your system must be MCS-certified to qualify.
0% VAT on Solar
Since April 2022, homeowners pay zero VAT on solar panel and battery storage installations. This applies to all domestic properties across the UK and saves roughly £1,000–£1,500 on a typical system.
ECO4 Scheme
The Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) provides free or subsidised solar panels to low-income households. Eligibility is based on property EPC rating and household income.
Permitted Development
Most domestic solar installations don't require planning permission under permitted development rights. Exceptions include listed buildings, conservation areas, and panels protruding more than 200mm from the roof.
Solar Installers by Region
The UK solar market is active across all regions. Here's how our directory breaks down by area.
North
120 installersMidlands
112 installersSouth East
100 installersSouth West
91 installersNorthern Ireland
10 installersSolar Panel Costs and Returns in the UK
Typical costs and expected returns for residential and commercial solar panel systems in the UK (2026 data).
| System Size | Typical Cost | Annual Generation | Annual Savings | Payback Period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 kW (small home) | £4,000 – £6,000 | 2,500 – 3,000 kWh | £500 – £700 | 7 – 9 years |
| 4 kW (avg home) | £5,000 – £8,000 | 3,400 – 4,000 kWh | £700 – £950 | 6 – 8 years |
| 6 kW (large home) | £7,000 – £11,000 | 5,100 – 6,000 kWh | £1,000 – £1,400 | 6 – 8 years |
| 10 kW (small commercial) | £10,000 – £16,000 | 8,500 – 10,000 kWh | £1,700 – £2,400 | 5 – 7 years |
| 50 kW (commercial) | £35,000 – £55,000 | 42,500 – 50,000 kWh | £8,500 – £12,000 | 4 – 6 years |
Savings assume 24p/kWh electricity cost and 50% self-consumption. Actual returns vary by location, roof orientation, and energy usage.
All Solar Installers
503 solar companies across the United Kingdom
2020 Solar PV
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC
21 Degrees (York)
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC · NICEIC · TrustMark
365 Energy Ltd
Reported credentials: MCS · TrustATrader
3S Northampton Ltd
Reported credentials: MCS
A. Lloyd Electrical & Solar
Reported credentials: MCS · NICEIC · RECC · TrustMark
A1 Group Edinburgh
Reported credentials: MCS · NICEIC
Aberdeen Solar
Reported credentials: MCS · NICEIC
Absolar
Reported credentials: MCS
Absolute Electrical Lincoln
Reported credentials: NICEIC · MCS
ACC Renewable Energy
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC · TrustMark · OZEV
Ace Solar Energy
Reported credentials: MCS · Solar Trade Association
Acorn Electrical & Mechanical
Reported credentials: MCS
ACRS Installations
Reported credentials: MCS
ACS Solar
Reported credentials: MCS
Actismart
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC · TrustMark
Adept Renewables
Reported credentials: MCS · HIES · NAPIT
Jinko Solar
AEC Solar Division
Reported credentials: MCS · NAPIT · RECC
AES Solar
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC · Queen's Award for Enterprise
Aissac Electrical & Solar
AJ Taylor Electrical Contractors
Reported credentials: MCS · NICEIC · Tesla Certified
AK Systems
Reported credentials: MCS · FGAS
Alba Heat and Power
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC · TrustMark
All Powered Up
Reported credentials: MCS
All Seasons Energy
Reported credentials: MCS · NAPIT · TrustMark · NICEIC
Alps Electrical
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC · NAPIT
ALPS Electrical
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC · NICEIC
Applegarth Engineering
Reported credentials: MCS
AR Power
Reported credentials: MCS · ISO 9001 · ISO 14001 · ISO 45001
Arctic Improvements
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC · TrustMark
ARD Solar Energy
Reported credentials: MCS
ARD Solar Energy
Reported credentials: MCS · NAPIT · REAL
Aspire Green
Reported credentials: MCS
Atlantic Renewables
Reported credentials: MCS
AuroraPV Ltd
Reported credentials: MCS
B Solar Energy
Reported credentials: MCS
B Solar Energy
Reported credentials: MCS · NICEIC
Baird and Brown Ltd
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC · NICEIC
Bath Solar Panel Installation
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC
BeeSOLAR
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC
Aiko + SolaX
Bell Electrical & Renewables
Reported credentials: MCS
BJC Electrical & Solar
Reported credentials: MCS
Bliss Eco Energy
Reported credentials: MCS · NAPIT · HIES · TrustMark
Blue Tech Electrical
Reported credentials: MCS · HIES · NAPIT
BlueBuild Energy
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC · ISO 9001 · ISO 14001
Bournemouth Renewables
Reported credentials: MCS · RECC
Bright Electrical Engineering
Reported credentials: MCS · NAPIT · RECC · TrustMark
Bright Spark Energy
Reported credentials: MCS · NAPIT · TrustMark
Brookfield Renewable Energies
Reported credentials: MCS · NICEIC · HIES
How We Rank Solar Installers
Directory ordering uses currently published profile information such as claimed status, stated experience, services, and warranty fields. Featured placement is shown separately. Verify all claims before hiring.
Customer Reviews
Ratings are not republished unless SurgePV can document their source and verification. Check current feedback on the original platform.
Certifications
MCS certification is the UK standard. We also check for RECC, TrustMark, NAPIT, NICEIC, and ISO 9001 accreditations.
Track Record
Published profile fields help users compare companies. These details are not a quality score and must be verified directly.
Why Trust the SurgePV Directory?
Profiles compile available company information for comparison. SurgePV does not guarantee MCS status, active-trading status, or service quality. Confirm details with MCS, Companies House, and the installer.
503
Published Profiles
0
Customer Reviews
How to Choose a Solar Installer in the UK
Check MCS Certification
MCS certification is non-negotiable. Without it, you can't access the Smart Export Guarantee or any government-backed financing. Verify the installer's MCS number on the official register at mcscertified.com.
Get Multiple Quotes
Get at least three quotes from different installers. Prices for the same system size can vary by 30–40%. A good quote includes a full breakdown of panels, inverter, labour, scaffolding, and any additional work like roof reinforcement.
Read Independent Reviews
Check feedback on its original platform and ask for recent project references. Look for consistent patterns, but confirm dates, identity signals, and dispute context before relying on a review.
Ask About Warranties
A reputable installer offers separate warranties for panels (25 years), inverter (10–15 years), and workmanship (5–10 years). Be wary of companies offering unusually short installation warranties or vague terms.
Verify Insurance and Aftercare
Confirm the installer carries public liability insurance and offers ongoing maintenance. Ask whether they handle DNO notifications and MCS registration on your behalf - most reputable companies do.
Design Faster. Sell More.
SurgePV is the solar design platform used by installers across the UK. Cut design time by 60%, generate professional proposals in minutes, and close more deals.
60%
Faster project design
10 min
Full design turnaround
Solar Installation in the UK: Step by Step
Free Consultation
Contact an installer for a free site survey. They'll assess your roof, shading, and energy usage.
Design & Quote
Receive a detailed proposal with system size, expected generation, costs, and projected savings.
Installation
Scaffolding goes up, panels and inverter are installed. Most residential systems take 1–3 days.
Inspection
Building control sign-off, DNO notification, and MCS certificate issued for SEG eligibility.
Go Live
System is commissioned, monitoring is set up, and you start generating clean energy and saving money.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in the UK?
A typical 4kW residential solar panel system in the UK costs between £5,000 and £8,000 including installation. Larger systems for commercial properties range from £10,000 to £50,000+ depending on capacity and complexity. Since April 2022, residential solar installations are VAT-exempt at 0%, reducing the overall cost.
What certifications should a UK solar installer have?
UK solar installers should hold MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certification, which is mandatory for customers to access the Smart Export Guarantee. RECC (Renewable Energy Consumer Code) membership and TrustMark registration are also strong indicators of quality and consumer protection.
What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) is a UK government scheme requiring licensed energy suppliers to pay small-scale generators for surplus electricity exported to the grid. Rates typically range from 4–6p per kWh, though some suppliers offer higher fixed rates. Your system must be MCS-certified to qualify.
Is battery storage worth it with solar panels in the UK?
Battery storage can increase solar self-consumption from around 40% to 80% or more. With typical battery costs of £2,500–£6,000 and rising electricity prices, most UK homeowners see a return on battery investment within 6–10 years. Batteries also provide backup power during grid outages.
When is the best time to install solar panels in the UK?
Solar panels can be installed year-round in the UK. Spring and autumn tend to have shorter wait times as demand peaks in summer. Installing before April allows you to benefit from a full summer of high solar generation. Panels actually perform slightly better in cooler temperatures, so winter installations are perfectly viable.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels in the UK?
Most domestic solar panel installations in the UK fall under permitted development rights, so planning permission is not required. Exceptions include listed buildings, conservation areas, flats, and systems that protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface. Ground-mounted systems must not exceed 9m² in area. Always check with your local planning authority if you're unsure.
How long do solar panels last in the UK climate?
Modern solar panels are designed to last 25–30 years and come with performance warranties guaranteeing at least 80% output after 25 years. The UK climate - including rain, wind, and temperature variation - does not significantly reduce panel lifespan. Inverters typically last 10–15 years and may need replacing once during the panel lifetime.
