A typical 3–4kWp solar system for a 3-bedroom house costs £5,000–8,000 installed, with payback in 8–12 years through bill savings and export payments.
🏠Homeowner view
The cost of solar panels depends on the size of the system you install. A typical 3-bedroom home needs a 3–4kWp system (8–10 panels), which costs approximately £5,000–8,000 fully installed including inverter, mounting hardware, and labour. Adding a battery storage unit (typically 5–10kWh) adds £2,500–5,000 on top. Over a year, a 4kWp system in the south of England generates around 3,500–4,000 kWh — saving you roughly £700–900 per year on electricity bills at current rates, plus SEG export income. Payback period is typically 8–12 years, after which you're generating essentially free electricity. The value of solar has increased significantly since energy prices rose in 2022. Solar panels are zero-rated for VAT in the UK (since April 2022). Always get at least three quotes from MCS-certified installers and check them on the MCS certified installer directory.