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Solar panel installation costs and quotes

Solar quotes are hard to compare because they bundle different things: system size, batteries, scaffolding and warranties. Put them on the same footing before you look at the price.

Updated 2 October 2026 · energy.org.uk editorial team

The short answer

Compare quotes on price per kWp of panels, with any battery priced separately, and check each covers the same work. Energy Saving Trust gives around £7,000 for a typical 3.5 kWp system, including scaffolding, but prices vary with your roof, access and location.

Use the solar quote checker to compare up to three quotes.

Check

What to check first

  • System size in kWp. Bigger systems cost more in total but often less per kWp.
  • What the price includes. Panels, inverter, mounting, wiring, labour, connection, registration and scaffolding, which most roof-mounted systems need.
  • Whether a battery is included and priced separately. A battery changes the price a lot. Ask for it to be itemised so you can judge the panels on their own.
  • MCS certification. Most export tariffs need an MCS certificate, which means using a certified installer and products.
  • The claimed output. Ask how it was calculated, and compare it with an independent estimate for your roof.
  • Warranties. Note separate warranties for panels, inverter, battery and workmanship.

VAT

Installation of solar panels is zero-rated for VAT from 1 May 2023 to 31 March 2027, as part of the relief for energy-saving materials. Check how your quote shows VAT.

Do

Practical next steps

  1. Get at least two or three written quotes for the same roof.
  2. Enter them in the solar quote checker.
  3. Ask each installer about anything flagged: scaffolding, MCS, an itemised battery, or an output claim well above our estimate.
  4. Work out the payback on your preferred quote in the solar calculator, and see solar payback: test your own quote.

Take care

Important limitations

  • We do not hold local installation prices, so the checker cannot tell you whether a price is fair.
  • Roof repairs, electrical upgrades or difficult access can add costs that are not in a standard quote.
  • Planning rules can apply to listed buildings, conservation areas and flat roofs.

Related tools and guides

Sources

Official sources checked 2 October 2026.