How much can solar panels save on my UK electricity bill?

  • By Volt Renewables

We hope you find this article helpful. Remember that examples provided are for illustration purposes only and may not reflect your unique circumstances.

For tailored advice or a personalised illustration, we’re happy to help – just reach out!

Snapshot

Discover how solar panels can help UK homeowners save money on energy bills while reducing reliance on the grid. With rising energy costs, installing solar panels and battery storage can cut your electricity expenses and deliver significant long-term savings.

This guide explains real-world savings, return on investment, and factors that impact costs, giving you the clarity to decide if solar is right for your home.

Why solar panels make financial sense in the UK

As energy prices soar, homeowners across the UK are searching for ways to lower their bills. Solar panels offer a practical and cost-effective solution. By generating electricity from sunlight, you can reduce your reliance on energy suppliers and even eliminate a portion of your monthly energy expenses.

The question most homeowners ask is: How much can I actually save? In this guide, we break down the potential savings, the factors that influence them, and how to maximise your return on investment.

Average savings from solar panels in the UK

The average UK household spends around £1,500 annually on energy bills, a figure that has risen sharply in recent years due to increasing wholesale gas prices and energy supply challenges. and this figure is expected to rise in the coming years.

By installing solar panels, you can:

  • Cut your energy bills by 50-70%: A well-sized solar panel system can generate up to 70% of the electricity you need during daylight hours.

  • Save between £300 and £900 every year: Based on the size of your system and household energy use.

For example, a 3kW system (around 8-10 panels) on a south-facing roof can save the average home approximately £500 annually.

If you pair solar panels with a battery storage system, the savings become even greater. Batteries allow you to store excess solar energy during the day and use it at night when demand is higher. This can add another 10-30% in savings annually.

What factors affect solar energy savings?

The actual savings depend on several key factors:

  • System size – larger systems generate more energy but come with higher upfront costs. Most UK homes opt for systems between 3-5kW.

  • Roof orientation and angle – south-facing roofs maximise sunlight exposure. East or west-facing roofs still generate power but slightly less efficiently.

  • Energy usage – the more electricity you use during daylight hours, the greater your savings. Using appliances like washing machines and dishwashers during the day boosts efficiency.

  • Battery storage – adding a battery system allows you to use stored solar energy when the sun isn’t shining, reducing reliance on expensive grid energy.

  • Export tariffs – under the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you can earn money for exporting excess energy back to the grid. Rates vary by provider, but most homeowners can typically earn around £70-150 annually.

How long does it take to see a return on investment from solar?

On average, installing solar panels costs between £5,000 and £8,000 for a typical UK home. With annual savings of £500 900, most homeowners start to see returns within 6 to 10 years.

Adding a battery storage system can add another £2,000-£4,000 to the upfront cost, but prices have been steadily falling in recent years due to advances in technology and increased competition, making them more accessible for homeowners. but it can significantly improve savings over time, especially as energy prices continue to rise.

Considering that solar panels last for 25+ years, the long-term savings often exceed £15,000-£20,000.

Maximising your savings with solar panels

To get the most out of your solar panels:

  • Optimise energy use – run major appliances during daylight hours.

  • Invest in battery storage – store energy for evening use to minimise reliance on the grid.

  • Choose the right installer – work with a trusted local installer to ensure your system is correctly sized and optimised.

  • Explore incentives – take advantage of the Smart Export Guarantee and any local initiatives.

Are solar panels worth it for UK homeowners?

Yes, solar panels are increasingly worthwhile, especially given the rise in energy costs. With annual savings of up to £900 and a return on investment within 6 to 10 years, they offer a reliable way to cut long-term energy expenses while reducing dependence on the grid.

While the upfront cost can feel significant, the long-term savings and protection against rising energy bills make them a smart investment. Pairing solar panels with battery storage further enhances your energy independence and increases overall savings.

Take the next step toward solar savings

Switching to solar has never been easier. With transparent pricing, expert installation, and long-term savings, a solar system from Volt Renewables is a smart investment in your home’s future.

Get your personalised quote today – no pressure, just clear, honest pricing tailored to your energy needs.

Other articles in this series

This guide explains the steps to evaluate your energy usage, system capacity, and the potential benefits of going off-grid.

This article breaks down the numbers, including installation costs, annual savings, and payback periods, to help you understand how much you can save over a decade.

This guide provides a detailed cost analysis for UK homeowners, including installation prices, potential savings, and return on investment.

In this article, we explain how battery storage works, how it maximises the return on your solar investment, and why it’s an essential addition to any modern solar system.