How Quickly Do Solar Panels Pay Back?
Independently written
How long until solar panels pay for themselves?
UK solar panels pay back in 8-12 years (without battery) or 10-14 years (with battery). Simple calculation: system cost ÷ annual savings = payback years. Example: £6,750 ÷ £580/year = 11.6 years. After payback: the remaining 15+ years of generation is pure profit (£8,700-£12,300 additional). Payback has HALVED since 2020: pre-energy crisis at 14p/kWh = 15-18 years. Now at 24.5p/kWh = 8-12 years. Higher electricity prices = faster payback.
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