Using solar panels to generate clean, renewable energy.
Solar panels capture the sun's energy and use it to either heat water or convert it into electricity. They don't need direct sunlight to work and will still produce some energy on a cloudy day.
Solar electricity is a green, renewable energy and doesn't release any pollutants.
How much solar energy you could make
You can get a rough idea of how much energy you can make from solar panels using our solar map.
The map uses colours to show the sun's strength on unshaded roof space:
Very good
Good
Reasonable
Limited or no unshaded roof space
Types of solar panels, costs and savings
Solar Photovoltaic (PV)
Solar PV uses energy from the sun to produce electricity.
Using the Solar Energy Calculator Go to http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/solar-energy-calculator (opens new window) from the Energy Savings Trust, you can estimate the savings you could make by installing a solar system.
Solar water heating
Solar water heating uses energy from the sun to heat water. The average home system costs between £3,000 and £5,000. You may be eligible to receive payments for using a renewable heating system through the Domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (GOV.UK) Go to https://www.gov.uk/domestic-renewable-heat-incentive (opens new window).
Find an installer
We recommend using an installer who is certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). This is essential if you want to use the Feed-in Tariff scheme.
You can search for a certified installer on the MCS website Go to http://www.microgenerationcertification.org/consumers/installer-search (opens new window).
Planning permission
You don't usually need planning permission to install solar panels on your home. There are some restrictions, so check if you need planning permission for solar panels.
Building regulations
Building regulations will normally apply if you want to install solar panels on your roof. For example, the strength of the roof will need to be checked. An installer who is certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) will be able to advise further.