Solar Panels UK: The Ultimate Guide 2026

What do I need to know about UK solar?

The ultimate UK solar guide 2026: How it works: sunlight → silicon cells → DC electricity → inverter → AC for your home. Cost: £5,500-£8,000 (4kW, 0% VAT). Savings: £580-£1,100/year. Payback: 8-12 years. Lifespan: 25-30 years. Grants: 0% VAT + SEG income + ECO4 (low-income) + BUS (heat pump combo). Installation: 3-6 weeks total, 1-2 days physical work. Maintenance: near-zero. Batteries: £3,000-£7,500 optional. Best tariff: Octopus Flux (battery) or Go (EV). Action: get 3+ MCS-certified quotes → compare → install → save.