Solar panels are expensive because they require a complex installation that generally takes place on your roof. This process throws up a large number of associated costs that you have to pay if you want your system to work effectively.
The most widely installed solar panel system is a 3.5-kilowatt peak (kWp) setup, which usually consists of 12 solar panels (at 350 W each) and costs between £5,000 and £10,000. Installing solar panels could lead to annual savings of up to £465 on energy bills, based on the current Energy Price Guarantee, as per the Energy Saving Trust.
A typical home in the UK will require a solar panel system between 2 - 6kW. An average system size of 4kW will cost around £5,000 - £6,000 including installation. The larger the solar panel system, the higher the installation cost. However, generally, the price per kW decreases the larger your system size is.
Solar panels can generate major savings if you’re trying to reduce your electricity costs, carbon emissions or both. The primary factor in determining whether or not solar panels are worthwhile for you is the cost you’re currently paying for electricity. The higher your electricity costs, the more a solar panel system will save you in the long run.
The cost of 10 solar panels in the UK can vary based on several factors, including the type of panels and the brand you choose. Depending on the size of the solar panels, it will cost between £5,000 to £6,000 to install 10 solar panels, not taking into account labour costs.
Solar is the cheapest form of energy due to the lower cost of building panels to harvest energy from the sun. Additionally, scientists and engineers are actively researching technology that will create high input for smaller panels, lower costs of fabrication for panels, longer life spans, and improved recycling and reuse methods.