Solar panels: frequently asked questions
Short, sourced answers to the questions UK homeowners ask most. Each links on to a fuller guide. Figures checked 15 October 2026.
Common worries such as “is it sunny enough?” and “do I need planning?” are answered below and on the home page.
British-made panels
Are solar panels made in Britain?
A few. GB-Sol makes solar slates, solar roofs and integrated panels near Cardiff, and Solar Capture Technologies says it assembles modules and solar roof tiles in Blyth, Northumberland. Neither says its cells are made in the UK. Most panels fitted here are imported; the government’s Solar Roadmap says the UK is unlikely to compete in the existing global market for conventional panels.
Is a British-made panel better?
Not necessarily. Where a panel is assembled tells you nothing about its efficiency or degradation. Buy British for appearance, jobs or supply-chain reasons, and judge performance by the datasheet.
Can I avoid panels linked to forced labour?
You can ask. GOV.UK estimates Xinjiang produces between a third and one half of the world’s solar-grade polysilicon. Ask your installer where the cells and polysilicon come from and what traceability the manufacturer offers.
Choosing and buying
What size solar system does a typical home need?
The Energy Saving Trust says typical home systems are about 4.5 kWp. The right size for you depends on your roof and how much electricity you use.
How much do solar panels cost?
The Energy Saving Trust puts a typical 4.5 kWp system at around £7,600 installed (read 15 October 2026). Quotes vary with roof, access, equipment and whether a battery is included.
How many quotes should I get?
At least three, from MCS-certified installers, as the Energy Saving Trust advises. Compare them line by line with our quotes checklist.
How long do solar panels last?
25 years or more, according to the Energy Saving Trust, with the inverter replaced after around 12 years.
Money and rules
Is there VAT on solar panels?
0% on installation in a home from 1 May 2023 to 31 March 2027 (VAT Notice 708/6), then due to return to 5%.
Will I be paid for exported electricity?
Under the Smart Export Guarantee in Great Britain, yes. Rates are set by each supplier and must be above zero; around 12p a unit is typical, per the Energy Saving Trust. Suppliers normally need an MCS certificate.
Do I need planning permission?
Usually not for a house in England, within the limits (on a pitched roof, no more than 0.2 metres proud of the slope and not above the ridge). Listed buildings are excluded; other UK nations have their own rules.
Is plug-in solar legal?
In Great Britain since 27 August 2026, for compliant devices up to 800W. The Energy Saving Trust says you must register the device before use. In England it may not be fixed to wooden walls, balconies, fences or gates.
About this site
Who runs British Solar Panels?
SEO-DONS LTD (company 16766013), an independent publisher. We are not a manufacturer, installer or government body.
What happens when I send an enquiry?
It comes to SEO-DONS LTD, the publisher of this guide, and we reply by email. There is no charge and no obligation.
More detail: British-made panels · best solar panels UK · choosing an installer · VAT · SEG · planning · glossary.
Ask us about your solar quote
Tell us a little about your home and what you are weighing up. Your enquiry comes to SEO-DONS LTD, the publisher of this guide, and we reply by email. We are not an installer and we do not sell or fit anything. If you already have a quote, tell us the panel and inverter models on it.
What happens next
- We read your enquiry.
- We reply by email, usually with the next step for your situation.
- You decide what to do next, with no obligation.