Be Wise › Solar Wise guides › Solar FAQs › Costs, savings and payback
What solar panels and home batteries cost in the UK, and how to work out how long they take to pay for themselves.
New to this topic? Start with our guide: Costs, savings and payback.
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The Energy Saving Trust puts the average home solar system at around £7,600 for about 4.5 kWp, roughly 12 panels. Installation in a home currently has 0% VAT, under the relief scheduled to run until 31 March 2027. Prices vary with roof access, scaffolding and the equipment chosen, so compare at least three quotes.
Sources: Energy Saving Trust: Solar panels · GOV.UK: VAT on energy-saving materials and heating equipment (Notice 708/6)
The Energy Saving Trust says a home battery can cost £1,500 to £10,000, with around £4,600 for a 5 kWh system, and its solar page says storage tends to cost around £5,000 to £8,000. Prices per kWh have fallen: 2026 market surveys put a typical installed 10 kWh battery at about £4,000 to £6,500, and bigger batteries usually cost less per kWh than small ones. Get at least three quotes from MCS-certified installers.
Sources: Energy Saving Trust: Battery storage · Energy Saving Trust: Solar panels · BestBuilders: solar battery cost UK 2026 (market survey, updated 6 September 2026) · The Cost of Solar: solar battery storage costs UK 2026 (market survey)
It depends on the cost, how much the panels generate, how much of the electricity you use yourself and what you are paid for exports. The Energy Saving Trust publishes payback estimates for different parts of the UK and for people who are home all day, half the day or out. Divide the cost by your realistic yearly saving, and allow for the inverter, which usually needs replacing after around 12 years.
Sources: Energy Saving Trust: Solar panels
The Energy Saving Trust says solar panels should last 25 years or more, and that an inverter usually needs replacing after around 12 years.
Sources: Energy Saving Trust: Solar panels
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Open Be Solar WiseAll FAQsReviewed 2026-10-03. General information, not legal, electrical or financial advice. Confirm current rules before you buy or connect anything.
