These guides answer the questions people ask before they buy solar. We write each one in plain English and check it against primary sources. We list those sources at the end of every guide. Our editorial standards explain how we research and correct them.
We group the guides by topic below. Start with costs if you are just beginning, since the numbers shape every later choice. Move on to grants and rules once you know your budget. Finally, read the technology guides to see what a good system looks like. Each guide has its own review date, so you can judge how current it is. When rules change, we update the guide and the date.
You do not need to read everything. Pick the question that worries you most, and follow the links from there. Each guide links on to related topics, so you can go deeper when you want to.
Costs and value
Money is usually the first question, and prices vary by roof and by year. These guides give typical ranges rather than promises, because no honest guide can quote your exact price.
- How much solar panels cost in the UK sets out typical prices and what drives them.
- Whether solar panels are worth it weighs the cost against the savings.
- Solar battery storage costs and sizing covers what a battery adds.
- Solar panels for business premises looks at costs and tax points for small firms.
Grants and export payments
Help with the cost is limited, and it changes often. Because of that, check the guide date. Export payments are different, since every supplier sets its own rate.
- Solar panel grants and schemes shows what support exists now.
- The Smart Export Guarantee explained shows how suppliers pay you for surplus power.
Planning and rules
Most homes can add solar without a long process. However, the rules differ across England, Scotland and Wales, and local councils can add limits.
- Planning permission for solar panels explains when you need consent.
- MCS certification for homeowners explains the quality mark and why it matters.
Technology and sizing
These guides help you size a system and know what to expect from it. Sizing matters because a system that is too small wastes roof space, while one that is too large wastes money.
- How many solar panels you need shows how to size a system.
- How long solar panels last covers lifespan and slow loss of output.
Where to go next
If you are ready to talk, send us an online solar enquiry. To see what we do, read our solar services overview. You can also check our UK solar coverage to see how we work in your area.