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costs15 January 20268 min read

Solar Panel Cost Calculator: How Much Will You Really Pay?

Use our detailed cost breakdown to estimate your solar panel installation costs based on property size, location, and energy usage.

Solar Panel Cost Calculator: How Much Will You Really Pay?

Solar Panel Cost Calculator: How Much Will You Really Pay?

Quick Cost Estimator

The cost of solar panels depends on several key factors. Use this guide to estimate your installation cost.

Step 1: Determine Your System Size

Your ideal system size depends on:

  • Annual electricity usage: Check your bills for kWh consumed
  • Roof space available: Typically 2m2 per panel
  • Budget: Balance between cost and generation
Annual UsageRecommended SystemApprox. Cost
Under 2,500 kWh3kW (8 panels)£5,000-£6,500
2,500-3,500 kWh4kW (10 panels)£6,000-£7,500
3,500-4,500 kWh5kW (12 panels)£7,000-£8,500
4,500-6,000 kWh6kW (15 panels)£8,000-£10,000
Over 6,000 kWh8-10kW (20+ panels)£10,000-£14,000

Step 2: Add-Ons and Extras

Battery Storage:
  • 5kWh battery: +£4,000-£5,000
  • 10kWh battery: +£6,500-£8,000
  • 13.5kWh (Tesla/GivEnergy): +£7,500-£10,000
EV Charger:
  • Standard 7kW charger: +£800-£1,200
  • Smart charger (Zappi/Ohme): +£1,200-£1,500
Premium Options:
  • All-black panels: +£500-£800
  • Microinverters: +£800-£1,500
  • Bird protection mesh: +£150-£300

Step 3: Location Adjustments

AreaAdjustment
London/affluent areas+10-15%
Rural areas+5-10% (access)
Conservation areas+£500-£1,000 (planning)
Listed buildings+£1,000-£2,000 (specialist work)

Example Calculations

Example 1: 3-Bed Semi in Watford
  • 4kW system: £6,500
  • No battery: £0
  • Standard install: £0
  • Total: £6,500
Example 2: 4-Bed Detached in St Albans
  • 6kW system: £9,000
  • 10kWh battery: +£7,000
  • Conservation area: +£500
  • Total: £16,500
Example 3: Large Home in Radlett
  • 10kW system: £13,000
  • Tesla Powerwall: +£9,500
  • Premium panels: +£700
  • EV charger: +£1,300
  • Total: £24,500

What Affects Your Final Price?

1. Roof type: Slate costs more than tile

2. Scaffolding needs: Complex roofs increase costs

3. Electrical work: Old consumer units may need upgrading

4. Access: Difficult access adds scaffolding costs

5. DNO requirements: G99 applications for larger systems

Getting an Accurate Quote

For a precise quote, you'll need:

  • Recent electricity bills (12 months)
  • Property photos (roof and consumer unit)
  • Postcode for local pricing

Our free survey provides an exact, fixed-price quote with no hidden extras.

Related Topics

solar panel cost calculatorsolar panel pricessolar installation cost

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