Leading Solar Panel Providers in the UK

February 19th, 2025
Leading Solar Panel Providers in the UK

Why Should You Invest in Solar Panels?

Solar energy is one of the most effective ways to reduce electricity costs and lower your carbon footprint. By installing a solar panel system, UK homeowners can generate their own renewable energy, decreasing reliance on traditional power grids. With government incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you can even earn money by exporting excess energy back to the grid.

How do you evaluate the credibility of solar panel providers?

To evaluate solar panel providers’ credibility, consider factors like certifications, customer reviews, warranties offered, installation experience, and the quality of solar panels used. Look for accreditations from bodies like MCS or RECC, as well as positive feedback from customers on reputable platforms.

What to Look for in a Solar Panel Provider?

Before choosing a solar panel installer, it is important to consider several factors:

  • Solar panel technology: Look for high-efficiency solar PV panels from brands like Trina Solar and JA Solar.
  • Installation process: Ensure the company follows the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) for quality assurance.
  • Warranties: Check for year product warranties and performance warranties for peace of mind.
  • Customer service: Read Trustpilot reviews to gauge customer satisfaction.
  • Battery storage systems: If you want to store excess energy, choose a company offering solar battery storage.
  • Solar panel grants: Look for providers that help with government incentives.
  • Flexible payment options: Some companies offer financing plans to reduce installation costs.

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Who Are the Best Solar Panel Installers in the UK?

Here are the top 10 solar panel installation providers in the United Kingdom:

1. Project Solar UK

Years of Experience: Over a decade

Key Features:

  • Offers some of the best solar panels with high power output.
  • Provides a lifetime warranty (99 years).
  • Excellent customer service team assisting at every step of the way.
  • Includes solar battery storage options.
  • Offers flexible payment options to suit different budgets.
  • Highly rated on Trustpilot for reliability and professionalism.

2. SunPower

Years of Experience: 35+ years

Key Features:

  • Known for high-quality solar PV panels with maximum efficiency.
  • Offers a 40-year product warranty.
  • High efficiency with less power loss over time.
  • Produces panels with 24% efficiency, making them among the best in the industry.
  • Provides excellent solar battery storage solutions.

3. Viridian Solar

Years of Experience: 20+ years

Key Features:

  • Specialises in pitched roof installations with sleek integrated panels.
  • Panels blend seamlessly with roofing for better aesthetics.
  • Complies with local planning regulations.
  • Works with MCS-certified installers to ensure quality installations.
  • Offers high-performance warranties of up to 30 years.

4. UKSOL

Years of Experience: UK-based brand with 10+ years

Key Features:

  • Focuses on UK-manufactured solar products.
  • Panels come with a 30-year performance warranty.
  • Follows Renewable Energy Consumer Code (RECC).
  • Provides competitive installation costs.
  • Known for its strong after-sales service and responsive customer service team.

5. So Energy

Years of Experience: 8+ years

Key Features:

  • Affordable solar panel installation with flexible payment options.
  • Offers heat pumps and EV chargers.
  • Mixed Trustpilot reviews, with some praising energy savings.
  • Provides solar battery storage options to increase self-sufficiency.
  • Offers customer service via online chat, email, and phone support.

6. British Gas

Years of Experience: 200+ years in energy services

Key Features:

  • Comprehensive solar system solutions.
  • Offers solar panel battery storage.
  • Some concerns over installation costs and labour costs.
  • Trusted brand with a long history in the UK energy sector.
  • Provides high standards in customer service and warranty support.

Best Solar Panel Installers in the UK

7. E.ON

Years of Experience: 30+ years

Key Features:

  • Provides solar PV system solutions for UK homes.
  • Offers energy savings through efficient panels.
  • Assists with solar panel grants and subsidies.
  • Includes solar battery storage to optimise energy usage.
  • Provides installation services with accredited technicians.

8. Good Energy

Years of Experience: 20+ years

Key Features:

  • 100% renewable energy supplier.
  • Focus on high standards for solar installation.
  • Helps homeowners lower their electricity costs.
  • Offers transparent pricing and financing options.
  • Provides dedicated customer service teams for solar customers.

9. Octopus Energy

Years of Experience: 10+ years

Key Features:

  • Award-winning solar industry provider.
  • Specialises in battery storage and source heat pumps.
  • Strong Trustpilot reviews with excellent customer service.
  • Provides solar panel grants and financial incentives.
  • Committed to innovation in renewable energy.

10. Evergreen Energy

Years of Experience: 10+ years

Key Features:

  • Provides solar PV panels and storage battery solutions.
  • Excellent aftercare services.
  • Helps homeowners set energy goals.
  • Offers EV charger solutions alongside solar panels.
  • Supports Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme for surplus energy earnings.

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How Much Space Do You Need for a Solar Panel System?

The highest part of the roof should have enough space for at least 10-12 solar PV panels to generate sufficient energy production. The required area depends on:

  • Energy usage: The more energy you consume, the more panels you need.
  • Panel efficiency: Higher efficiency means less power loss.
  • Local planning authority regulations.
  • Pitched roof or flat roof considerations.
  • Battery storage systems to maximise self-consumption.

What Are the Benefits of Solar Power?

Investing in solar power has several advantages:

  • Environmental benefits: Reduces your carbon footprint.
  • Lower energy costs: Cuts down monthly energy bills.
  • Increased home value: Homes with solar panel systems are more attractive to buyers.
  • Energy independence: Avoids reliance on the national grid.
  • Access to solar incentives: Financial support through government schemes.

Correct as of 10 February 2025

What Are the Benefits of Solar Power

FAQs About Solar Panel Installation

What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?

The Smart Export Guarantee is a government-backed scheme that pays homeowners for the excess solar energy they export back to the grid.

How long does the installation process take?

A standard solar panel installation takes about 1-3 days, depending on the size of the solar PV system and any additional electrical components.

What are the best solar panel brands in the UK?

Top brands include Trina Solar, JA Solar, SunPower, and Viridian Solar, known for their high standards and performance warranties.

Do I need planning permission for solar panels?

Most solar panel installations do not require planning permission unless you live in a conservation area. Check with your local planning authority.

How much do solar panels cost in the UK?

A solar panel system can range from £4,000 to £10,000 depending on panel efficiency, installation costs, and whether you include a solar battery storage system.

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