UK
Ireland
Scotland
London
Our solar experts have rounded up the best solar panel installers in 2026. In our recently updated shortlist, we chose Solar4Good as the best for customer service, Project Solar as best for long warranties, and Effective Home as the most reliable provider.
Switching to solar energy is a big decision, and choosing a reliable provider is the first step in ensuring your installation is successful.
In this guide, we have rounded up the very best solar panel installers in the UK. Our solar experts have spent hundreds of hours researching customer reviews, industry accreditations and surveyed over 2,000 people to provide an updated shortlist in July 2026.
Only companies who offer the best solar panels, hold industry accreditations and are backed by years of experience and plenty of satisfied customers are included in this guide, so you can feel confident choosing one of them with your solar panel installation.
Our best solar panel installers of 2026
Solar panel installer: Solar4Good
FMB pick: Best customer service
Trustpilot rating: 4.9 stars
MCS certified: Yes
Maximum warranty: 25 years
Founded: 2020
Solar panel installer: Project Solar
FMB pick: Best for long warranties
Trustpilot rating: 4.6 stars
MCS certified: Yes
Maximum warranty: Lifetime
Founded: 2011
Solar panel installer: Glow Green
FMB pick: Best range of high-efficiency panels
Trustpilot rating: 4.6 stars
MCS certified: Yes
Maximum warranty: 30 years
Founded: 2011
Solar panel installer: So Energy
FMB pick: Best for speed of installation
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 stars
MCS certified: Yes
Maximum warranty: 30 years
Founded: 2015
Solar panel installer: Wickes Solar
FMB pick: Best payment options
Trustpilot rating: 4.5 stars
MCS certified: Yes
Maximum warranty: 25 years
Founded: 2024 (Solar Fast in 2021)
Solar panel installer: UPS Solar
FMB pick: Best range of solar panels
Trustpilot rating: 4.9 stars
MCS certified: Yes
Maximum warranty: 25 years
Founded: 2019
Solar panel installer: Sunsave
FMB pick: Best solar subscription service
Trustpilot rating: 4.8 stars
MCS certified: Yes
Maximum warranty: 25 years
Founded: 2022
Data correct as of July 2026
A note on Effective Home: the installer was previously featured in our roundup of the best solar panel installers, but has since ceased trading at the end of June 2026.
Best customer service: Solar4Good
Although Solar4Good was only founded in 2020, it has quickly built a reputation for efficient, reliable installations, completing around 1,500 projects annually.
Their installers are backed by a friendly customer service team which is often praised in Trustpilot reviews, earning Solar4Good an impressive 4.9 stars on the review site.
Solar4Good offers 3 customisable residential packages, with solar panel prices ranging from £5,500 for 10 panels to over £9,000 for 16 panels and 8.7kWh battery storage. It supplies solar products from JA Solar, Jinko, Trina Solar, Qcells, and Fox ESS.
Pros
Affordable packages, including a Price Match Guarantee.
Rapid turnaround from quote to installation in as little as two weeks.
91 per cent of Trustpilot reviews are five stars.
Cons
Being a newer company, Solar4Good doesn't have a long-term track record.
Complaints about cold-calling after initial contact.
"Team wonderful. George the sales chap was straightforward and honest. The installation team were awesome. The two lads on scaffolding were courteous and professional. The Roofing guys were awesome and Samuel and Faisal the electricians were exemplary. Thoroughly recommended."
Jamie Wilson, July 2026, via Trustpilot
"Rahi and the team were amazing from start to finish. Can't thank them enough and I’m already seeing a saving on my bills. They were very responsive all the way through the fist consultation, throughout the installation and then the whole set up. I highly recommend their company to my friends and family. A trustworthy company with great respect for your home. Thank you to the whole team."
Avnish Patel, July 2026, via Trustpilot
Best for long warranties: Project Solar
Project Solar is the largest solar panel installation company in the UK, having installed more than 50,000 solar panels since its inception in 2011, according to its website.
It is particularly well-known for its industry-leading lifetime warranties on its solar panels and installations. The company states that provided it is installed and maintained properly, a defective solar module will be either repaired, replaced or refunded at the company’s discretion during its lifetime. This warranty does not, however, cover the removal of defective panels or shipping of new ones, so make sure to carefully read the T&Cs before you commit.
The installer offers some of the best solar panels on the market, as determined by our experts. Project Solar customers can choose between the brand’s own Project Solar Evolution Max 500W and SunPower panels.
Project Solar comes thoroughly recommended from its existing customers. In our solar panel survey, 97 per cent of respondents with Project Solar panels said they would recommend the brand. The same number said their panels had met or exceeded expectations when it came to energy production, and 95 per cent of respondents felt their solar panels had met or exceeded their expectations regarding ongoing cost savings.
Pros
Best warranties on the market.
Over a decade of experience.
Installs FMB’s two highest-rated solar panels.
Excellent communication, according to reviews.
Cons
Repeated complaints about scaffolding remaining up for too long after the installation.
What Project Solar customers have to say
Project Solar has a Trustpilot rating of 4.6 stars from over 7,000 reviews, with 80 per cent of 5-star ratings as of July 2026. The overwhelming majority of recent reviews are very positive, highlighting the efficiency of the process and the professionalism of its staff. The few negative reviews highlight pushy sales techniques and some issues getting in touch with customer service, but the company replies to them all to address the customers’ problems.
"My experience with Project Solar went smoothly from my first contact and discussion with Joe Spencer to the final fitting and installation of the panels. Any questions I asked or information I needed were answered and emailed to me.
I would recommend Project Solar with no hesitation."
Kay Relph, July 2026, via Trustpilot
"There were a few teething problems with the instal, the number of panels suggested would not fit on our roof and the battery could not be installed in the position suggested. Having said that the project solar team sorted the problems out swiftly.
The instal team Chris and Derek were brilliant ( 5 stars)"
Susanne Stonehouse, July 2026, via Trustpilot
Best range of high-efficiency solar panels: Glow Green
Founded in 2011, Glow Green initially specialised in energy-efficient boilers before branching out to offer other green home products, including an all-in-one package that encompasses solar panels, battery storage, EV chargers, air conditioning and heat pumps.
The company covers its solar panels with warranties of up to 30 years and offers a 5-year workmanship warranty. Its product range includes solar panels and batteries from Perlight, JA Solar, Tesla Energy and more.
Pros
A wide range of energy-efficient products that can be installed in an all-in-one package.
More than ten years of experience in the industry.
More than 1,700 highly trained engineers.
Solar panels covered by 30-year warranties.
Cons
Some complaints about customer service and the installation process.
What Glow Green customers have to say
As of July 2026, Glow Green Solar is rated 4.6 stars on Trustpilot from over 1,100 reviews, with 83 per cent of 5-star reviews. Recent reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with the occasional negative review calling out last-minute installation cancellations and issues accessing after-sales care.
"Good communication from the start and kept me updated through process. Installation team were very good, answered any questions we had and got on with the job to finish in 1 day. Very pleased with results and would recommend."
Nicholas Hurrell, July 2026, via Trustpilot
"Sales rep was really helpful and I felt like the whole sales process was smooth and wasn’t a hard sale or order sold anything. Installation was good and fitters did an amazing job.
Poor customer service from glow green following install. Several phone calls never responded to or followed up. Complaint raised and poor communication from the complaints department also."
Reece, July 2026, via Trustpilot
Best for speed of installation: So Energy
Founded in 2015, So Energy is an established, MCS-accredited solar panel installer which offers competitive pricing, good warranties and plenty of flexible payment options.
Customers can opt for long-term payment plans between 5 and 25 years which cover the panels and other hardware, installation costs, monitoring, maintenance and repairs from just £75 per month. So Energy also offers 0 per cent finance options over 1 or 2 years.
Where the brand really stands out, however, is in its commitment to speed of installation. From the moment you accept the quote to the solar panels being installed on your roof, So Energy promises a speedy four-week turnaround.
While they're not industry-leading, So Energy's warranties are more than enough to guarantee peace of mind. The company even offers a 10-year warranty on batteries and inverters, which is a nice bonus.
Pros
Fast turnaround time
Good range of solar panels offered
Great SEG rate if you install solar panels through So Energy
Very positive customer reviews highlighting knowledgeable staff
Ground-mounted and flat roof systems available
Solid product warranties, including on batteries and inverters
Cons
Labour warranty could be longer at only 5 years
What So Energy customers have to say
As of July 2026, So Energy is rated 4.5 stars out of 5 on Trustpilot with 73 per cent of 5-star reviews, but it's worth noting many of these reviews are about the company as an energy provider rather than as a solar panel installer. Many happy customers call out the high level of customer service from the company's representatives. Most of the brand’s negative reviews are about its energy tariffs, bills and smart meters, and the company replies to all of them promptly. That said, some recent reviews call out installation delays.
"Well from the moment we applied for the solar and ev charger on the phone with Jordon , to be installed I can honestly say it was a 5 star performance from the electrical engineer Sagar and his wife to the 2 men that put the panels on the roof, they were all so helpful, they all cleaned up after.
Sagar even spent over an hour helping us to download all relevant apps, and showed us how to use them.
"They were a credit to So Energy you are very lucky to have such dedicated staff. I have and will recommend So Energy to all friends and family. Thank you"
Karen, June 2026, via Trustpilot
"I had solar panels , batteries and a car charger installed through SO energy. The communication throughout the process was excellent and dates met as promised. The installers were great and the electrician was polite, thorough and tidy. He went above and beyond with his part of the process. I would highly recommend this company."
John Mortimer, June 2026, via Trustpilot
Best payment options: Wickes Solar
Back in 2024, major home improvement retailer Wickes purchased a majority stake in Solar Fast before rebranding it to Wickes Solar. Despite the change in name, the company is still “powered” by Solar Fast.
Wickes Solar offers 12 DMEGC solar panels and a battery for £9,150 including installation and scaffolding – a price which, as well as being very clearly laid out, is competitive for the industry. Also appealing are the company’s financing options, which include a monthly repayments over as many as 168 months at 6.9 per cent APR.
As the previous name implies, Wickes Solar is also known for delivering solar systems fast – on average around 50 days after initial enquiry, according to its website. In fact, you should receive a call within 48 hours of requesting a quote.
Pros
Great finance options
Transparent pricing
Established national retailer
Fast installation time
Cons
Not many recent reviews
What Wickes Solar customers have to say
Having taken over the Solar Fast page, Wickes Solar has a 4.5-star rating on Trustpilot from over 2,300 reviews as of July 2026. The company and Solar Fast are discussed indiscriminately on the Trustpilot page, which makes it a bit difficult to assess the service quality since the rebrand.
Recent reviews are polarised, however, either 5-star reviews from very satisfied customers or 1-star reviews from some reporting issues getting in touch with customer service or damage following a solar installation.
"We have recently had our Wick Solar system installed, and the entire journey from start to finish was nothing short of incredible.
The installation went smoothly with absolutely no problems along the way, and the customer service throughout the process was fantastic. We felt completely supported and happy every step of the way.
A special shout-out and thank you must go to Beckyanne, the Wicke Solar Design Consultant. She led us on our journey and was truly incredible. She was incredibly helpful, insightful, and informative, making sure we had all the knowledge we needed to feel confident in our choice.
We highly recommend Wick Solar and are absolutely thrilled with our experience!"
Spyros Siveri, June 2026, via Trustpilot
"Wickes have taken over solarfast. I had a problem this morning with my system, installed by solarfast in 2022.
I rang the number which went through to Wickes at 10am. Rang rang rang , then went to general customer services, rang rang rang, then to voicemail, "leave a message" then this voicemail is full cannot take any more messages, and rang off. GRRRR
Your reply invites me to ring the same number again. Why on earth would I want to go around that circus again???"
timddeb, June 2026, via Trustpilot
Best for transparency: UPS Solar
Founded in 2019, UPS Solar offers panels from a range of solar solar including AIKO, DMEGC, Q CELL, JA Solar, Jinko and Eurener, many of which featured on our best solar panels guide.
Where the installer really stands out is through its transparent pricing; unlike most of its competitors, it clearly lays out the costs of different system sizes and brands so you can get a good idea of the cost of solar panels before you even reach out to get a quote.
The company also provides a 10-year labour warranty and deposit-free installation, so customers only pay after installation. The installation process is supported by the Independent Warranty Association, and the company holds certifications from the Renewable Energy Consumer Code and MCS.
Pros
Great customer service according to reviews.
Frequent communication to keep you up to date with your installation.
Aesthetically designed black solar panels that complement residential roofs.
Cons
A relatively new company in the sector, founded in 2019.
Complaints about after-sales service, including slow delivery of the MCS certificate.
What UPS Solar customers have to say
As of July 2026, UPS Solar has the joint-highest Trustpilot rating, at 4.9 stars out of 5 from over 480 reviews, with 85 per cent of customers awarding the company 5 stars. The vast majority of recent reviews are positive, while rare negative reviews calling out incomplete installations and difficulty receiving after-sales care.
"I'd been interested in getting a solar and battery system for some time and had already approached my energy provider, Octopus Energy, for a rough installation quote, but it seemed very expensive. I then registered my interest in the Solar Together scheme, which had partnered with my local council in Malvern. I received an approximate quote from UPS that seemed remarkably good value for the system I wanted, so I was initially quite sceptical about signing up with a company I’d never heard of, based many miles from where I live.
"Their online reviews gave me some reassurance, but I was still slightly nervous about the final outcome. In the end, I had no reason to worry.
"Communication throughout the entire process was excellent. Sophie, in particular, was always quick to return calls or reply to emails and was excellent at explaining each stage of the process, including the DNO application. I signed up to the Solar Together scheme in April, and the installation was completed at the end of June, which was much quicker than I had expected.
"The scaffolding company, Limitless Scaffolding, was also excellent. Communication was great, and the team arrived exactly when they said they would. The solar installers, Dave and Ryan, did an exceptionally neat and tidy job, working a very long day to complete everything without needing to return.
"My system (15 panels, an inverter, three Fox EP6 batteries, a changeover switch, etc.) has worked perfectly from day one, and I’m now just waiting for Octopus Energy to move me onto the correct export tariff.
"I would 100% recommend UPS Solar to anyone considering a solar installation. If you’re at all apprehensive about using them, don’t be. I’ve found them to be a fantastic company to deal with from start to finish."
Mark Smith, July 2026, via Trustpilot
"It was an easy process from beginning to end.
"All very helpful and friendly to deal with.
"We have been happy with everything so far."
David L., July 2026, via Trustpilot
Best solar subscription service: Sunsave
Founded in 2022, Sunsave is the newest solar panel installer on this list, and it’s known for creating the UK’s first solar subscription service.
While other subscription services have appeared since, including from Otovo and Unbound Energy, Sunsave’s still stands out. With Sunsave Plus, you own your panels from the moment your system is installed, without the need to put down a deposit or pay an upfront fee. You then pay for your system monthly, starting at £69, for a maximum of 20 years. If you wish, you can pay off some or all of your system cost at any time, with no penalty.
Sunsave doesn’t just offer a subscription service. With Sunsave Standard, you can buy your panels upfront, with costs starting from £6,700 for a complete solar system with a battery.
Sunsave Plus and Standard both offer 25-year performance and product warranties on your panels, and 10-year warranties for batteries and inverters. And if you’re an existing Octopus Energy customer, installing your panels with Sunsave will give you faster access to the energy provider’s often market-leading Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariffs.
Pros
Options to pay upfront or spread the cost of your solar panel installation through the Sunsave Plus subscription service.
Monthly subscription payments include maintenance costs, replacement parts and insurance.
Sunsave is partnered with Octopus Energy, allowing its customers to access some of the best export tariffs in the UK.
Cons
Octopus Energy SEG tariffs only available for existing Octopus customers.
The newest solar panel installer featured on this list, with a small number of Trustpilot reviews.
What Sunsave customers have to say
As of July 2026, Sunsave is rated 4.8 stars on Trustpilot from just over 350 reviews, with 90 per cent of customers giving the provider 5 stars. Most recent reviews are very positive, praising the installation process from the initial consultation to the final result. Negative reviews are few and far between and mostly mention difficulty getting in touch with the sales team.
"Excellent from start to finish. I had been thinking about solar for a while and finally started looking and finance options etc. I saw an advert for Sunsave and was intrigued. Jonny was excellent, explained everything with no sales pressure at all. We worked through various options and he came up with the best system for what I wanted.
"I like how their model works, it won’t be for everyone but I didn’t want to borrow £10k+ and repay over a short period as it would massively impact any savings I made.
"Agreement signed and handed over to Sophie who arranged the install. Sophie kept me up to date with the progress. Scaffold booked in, erected as arranged. Install days came and the install team were there bright and early and got it done in a day. Very happy with the system and with the service from Sunsave. Thanks Jonny and Sophie! […]"
JF, July 2026, via Trustpilot
"Process was easy with very good communication from all staff. The team that came to fit the system were very professional and helpful. I would recommend sunsave to anyone who is interested in having solar panels installed."
Steve Gilman, May 2026, via Trustpilot
Regional solar panel installers
Alongside the national installers above, you can find a number of regional solar panel installers in your local area. Below are just some highly-rated MCS-accredited regional solar panel installers:
Region: North East
Regional solar panel installer: Sustainable Energy Engineering
Ratings and accreditations: 4.9-star Google rating
Areas covered: North of England
Region: North West
Regional solar panel installer: Applegarth Electric
Ratings and accreditations: 4.6 stars on Trustpilot, 5-star Google rating
Areas covered: Wirral, Liverpool, Manchester, Cheshire
Region: Yorkshire and the Humber
Regional solar panel installer: Purelec Energy
Ratings and accreditations: 4.8-star Google rating
Areas covered: West Yorkshire, North of England
Region: Midlands
Regional solar panel installer: Geo Green Power
Ratings and accreditations: 4.9 stars on Trustpilot, 4.5 stars on Google
Areas covered: Based in Nottingham, operates nationwide
Region: East of England
Regional solar panel installer: Cahill Renewables
Ratings and accreditations: 3.9 stars on Trustpilot, 4.9 stars on Google
Areas covered: Based in Essex, operates nationwide
Region: London and the South East
Regional solar panel installer: Everyone’s Energy UK
Ratings and accreditations: 4.9 stars on Trustpilot, 4.9 stars on Google
Areas covered: London, Hertfordshire, South East of England
Region: South West
Regional solar panel installer: Eco NRG
Ratings and accreditations: 4.2 stars on Trustpilot, 4.1 stars on Google
Areas covered: Devon, Cornwall, Somerset
Region: Scotland
Regional solar panel installer: Solar Specialists Scotland
Ratings and accreditations: 5-star Google rating
Areas covered: Based in Paisley, operates in Scotland
Region: Wales
Regional solar panel installer: Celtic Green Energy
Ratings and accreditations: 3.7 stars on Trustpilot, 4.3 stars on Google
Areas covered: Based in Camarthenshire, operates in Wales
Region: Northern Ireland
Regional solar panel installer: Solar Power NI
Ratings and accreditations: 4.9 stars on Trustpilot Based in Ballycastle
Areas covered: Operates in Northern Ireland
Data correct as of July 2026
Finding a solar panel installer
Whether you choose a national installer or a smaller regional one, the process from getting quotes to installing panels will be fairly similar. You can find a solar panel installer through FMB by:
Filling out our free quote form: answering a few simple questions including what type of roof you have and whether it is impacted by any shading.
Waiting for a match: we’ll search our network of solar panel installers to find the ones best suited to your household. They should be in contact within 48 hours of your enquiry.
Comparing your quotes: you can then compare the quotes you’ve received and choose your preferred solar panel installer.
Find solar panel installers in your area
Looking for solar panel quotes? Just answer a few quick questions to get matched with installers operating in your area.
Choosing between national and regional installers
Both local and national solar panel installers come with advantages and drawbacks which you should consider before making your choice.
Some of the benefits of choosing a local installer include:
A more personalised service: Local installers may have a better knowledge of local regulations, solar panel schemes and incentives that apply in the region
Quicker responses: A local installer will likely want to build a good reputation within the area, which may result in better customer service and faster response times than a national provider
Contributions to the local economy: By choosing a local installer, you will be supporting a smaller company in your area
However, choosing a national solar panel installer brings you:
A wide range of experience: National installers who have been in business for many years will have built up a wealth of experience, which can be beneficial to anyone considering solar panels
Peace of mind from multiple reviews: A larger company will likely have a bigger presence than a local installer, so you’ll have more reviews to consult before you make your decision
Competitive pricing: A larger company will usually be able to offer lower prices for its services and products, whereas local installers may have to charge more
Ask the expert: What should I look for in a good solar panel installer?
Rahi Vakani, co-founder of Solar4Good, gave us his advice:
Always look for MCS accreditation; if the installer doesn’t have this, you won’t be able to benefit from SEG payments.
Ask installers about their insurance cover. They must have valid public liability insurance to carry out installations.
Look for reviews on sites such as Trustpilot. Positive reviews suggest a reliable, trustworthy installer.
Choose an installer who’s been in business for a number of years; this indicates a company that has a steady stream of customers and a strong track record.
The cheapest quote isn’t always the best option, and may indicate that the installer cuts corners, or uses inferior products.
Avoid the ‘man with a van’ installer or those who employ cold-calling techniques. They may lack qualifications, insurance, or good after-sales care.
Pick an installer that you feel comfortable with – after all, they will have access to your home during the installation, and they need to be someone you trust.
How to compare solar panel installers
Once you have found a few different MCS-accredited installers, make a pros and cons list for each one. According to our survey of over 2,000 solar panel owners, the most important factor to consider is cost, followed by the warranties offered and the installer’s reputation.
What factors were most important when choosing a solar panel installer?
After cost, the warranty and service agreements was the most important factor when choosing a solar panel installer.
Cost
41.29%
Warranty and service agreements
38.79%
Reputation
32.46%
Brand of the technology
32.11%
Time to installation
32.01%
Source: FMB survey, over 2,000 respondents in the UK, June to July 2024.Created with Datawrapper
Cost
One of the primary considerations when comparing solar panel installers is their cost. The best way to know you’re getting a fair price is to collect as many quotes as possible. It may also help you to negotiate with your chosen installer, especially if you have cheaper quotes to back up your haggling.
Warranty and service agreements
Hopefully nothing will go wrong with your panels, but in the event that something were to go awry, you’ll want to know that you’re covered. You should compare the lengths of the labour warranty provided by the installer, as well as the product and performance warranties that come with your solar panels of choice.
Reputation and reviews
Most of the best solar companies have been in business for many years; for example, both Evergen and Project Solar have more than 12 years of experience installing solar panels, so these installers might be at the top of your list if this matters to you. Trustpilot is also an invaluable resource to check how customers feel about their service, especially for newer solar panel installers.
Solar panel brands supplied
Solar panel installers will often have a select number of solar panel brands they work with, so you should do your research at the outset and make sure you’re happy with the power and efficiency of the panels offered by the installer in question. The more powerful and efficient your panels are, the fewer you’ll need to meet your energy needs.
Time to installation
A practical consideration when comparing solar panel installers is how long it’ll be before they can get started on your household. While you might not want to wait months and months for an installation, an installer with a slightly longer wait time because they’re in high demand can be a sign of quality.
What to avoid when choosing a solar installer
Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to look for when comparing solar panel installers:
Installers without an MCS accreditation (or equivalent): Not only is an MCS accreditation a sign of reliability, without using an MCS-accredited (or equivalent) installer, you won’t be able to access regulated SEG tariffs.
Poor Trustpilot reviews: However cheap an installer is, you don’t want to use them if they have poor reviews. The savings won’t be worth the potential hassle down the road.
Lack of detail: If an installer isn’t upfront about the breakdown of costs, the length of their warranties, or how long installation will take, you may be better off looking elsewhere.
Installers who try to pressure you into a sale: Feeling pressured into a sale isn’t a great starting point, and can be a sign of poor working practices. It’s better to walk away from those kinds of sales tactics, and take your time to find a less pushy installer.
Why should your solar panel system be accredited by the MCS?
According to the official website, the MCS “sets, defines and maintains the Standards for low-carbon energy technology products, contractors and their installations.” Choosing an MCS-certified solar panel installer guarantees a reliable and professional installation. Opting for an MCS-accredited installer is also a requirement if you plan to sell your unused solar energy back to the National Grid via a regulated SEG tariff.
A MCS accreditation isn’t the only certificate to watch out for, however. The following are all signs that your installer provides a high quality service – you should look for evidence of certification or participation on an installers’ website, typically in the form of a badge or logo:
TrustMark: This is a government-endorsed scheme that is a sign of quality for companies that work in or around the home.
Energy Performance Validation Scheme (EPVS): This means that all the documentation you’re provided with during your installation has been vetted and is up to standard for consumers.
National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting (NICEIC): This is the UK’s leading certification body for companies that carry out electrical installations.
Home Insulation and Energy Systems Contractors Scheme (HIES): This means a solar panel installer is adhering to the HIES scheme rules and code of practice, and is annually vetted to ensure they continue to do so.-
How long will the installation process take?
More than half (52.38 per cent) of the people we surveyed said installing their solar system took 1 to 3 months from signing the contract to completion. This timeframe includes a thorough site survey, making up roof plans, the actual installation and the completion of necessary documentation. For larger systems, the process may take slightly longer.
Less than one month
3.01%
One to three months
52.38%
Four to six months
38.94%
More than six months
0.10%
Source: FMB survey, over 2,000 respondents in the UK, June to July 2024.Created with Datawrapper
Best solar panel installer FAQs
Can I buy solar panels and install them myself?
Installing solar panels yourself might seem like a good way to reduce your upfront costs, but it is generally not recommended. Installing a solar system requires technical knowledge as there are many safety risks involved, and you may find that a DIY solar panel system may lack efficiency compared to a professionally-installed one. What’s more, to take advantage of the SEG scheme, your solar panel system must be installed by an MCS-certified installer.
Do you have to pay for labour separately when installing solar panels?
Labour costs are typically included in your solar panel system quote. These costs generally range between £300 and £500 depending on the size and complexity of the installation, as well as the area you live in.
Which solar company is the most reputable?
Companies like Project Solar and Glow Green have been top players in the solar industry for many years, meaning they can generally be depended on to provide a reliable service. That said, a smaller, local installer might be just as reliable and provide a more personalised service; however, make sure to check customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot before you commit.
Can any electrician install solar panels?
Not every electrician can install solar panels as roof mounting and integrating a system with the National Grid involve specialised skills beyond standard electrical work.
Do you need permission to install solar panels?
In most cases, planning permission is not required to install solar panels. Certain properties such as listed buildings and those within Conservation Areas do require planning permission to install solar panels, though the Labour Energy Secretary Ed Miliband has proposed schemes to make it easier to install solar panels on such buildings. Always check with your local planning authority if you are unsure.
What is the difference between product, performance and labour warranties?
A product warranty covers the solar panels, including manufacturing defects, while a performance warranty relates to the panel’s efficiency, which naturally degrades over its lifespan. The performance warranty guarantees a certain level of panel efficiency after a specified period, and is often longer than the product warranty. The labour warranty, also known as an installation or workmanship warranty, covers the quality of your system’s installation.
Written by Robin Whitlock
Contributor
Robin is as seasoned writer with expansive experience in the renewable technology industry.
Robin has been writing on the clean energy sector for over 24 years, including renewable energy, environmental issues and climate change. He has written for a variety of publications, including Renewable Energy Magazine, Solar Thermal Magazine, and Water 21 Magazine.
Contributions by Connor Campbell
Senior Writer
Connor Campbell is an experienced personal finance writer who has been producing online content for 10 years.
Throughout his career, Connor has strived to demystify complex topics to help consumers make the best decisions, whether that’s what solar panel to pick, how to get cheaper car insurance, or which business bank account to open.
He has written extensively on a number of personal finance topics for Independent Advisor, NerdWallet, and Spreadex, and has been quoted in a range of publications, including The Guardian, BBC, Evening Standard, Daily Express and The Mirror.
