A solar panel installer (also known as a solar PV installer) designs, installs and commissions solar photovoltaic systems that generate electricity from sunlight. All grid-connected solar PV installations in the UK must be designed and installed by an MCS certified (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) installer - MCS certification is mandatory if the system is to qualify for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), Building Regulations compliance notification, and any future government support schemes. Solar installers are typically qualified electricians holding City and Guilds 2399 (Design, Erection and Verification of Solar Photovoltaic Systems) or equivalent. The installation also falls under Part P of the Building Regulations as a notifiable electrical installation.
What they do
- Survey the roof, assess orientation, pitch and shading and size the system
- Design a solar PV array including panel layout, string configuration and inverter selection
- Install solar panels on pitched or flat roofs
- Install inverters, isolation switches and generation meters
- Install battery storage systems (where specified)
- Connect the system to the consumer unit and notify Building Control under Part P
- Issue MCS installation certificate and register the installation on the MCS database
- Advise on Smart Export Guarantee tariffs and applications
- Commission and test the completed system
When you need one
A solar panel installer is needed for any new solar PV installation, battery storage addition, or when upgrading or expanding an existing solar system.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| System size / type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| 2kWp residential system (6-8 panels) | £5,000 - £7,000 |
| 4kWp residential system (10-14 panels) | £7,000 - £10,000 |
| 6kWp residential system (16-20 panels) | £9,000 - £14,000 |
| Battery storage (add-on) | £2,500 - £6,000 |
| Solar tiles (per sq m) | £400 - £800 / sq m |
| Commercial system (50kWp+) | £40,000 - £100,000+ |
Solar PV prices have fallen significantly since 2015. Prices above include supply and installation of panels, inverter, generation meter and connection to the consumer unit. Scaffolding is typically extra. Always obtain at least three quotes from MCS certified installers.
Qualifications to look for
MCS (Microgeneration Certification Scheme) certification is mandatory for all grid-connected solar PV installations in the UK if you want to receive Smart Export Guarantee payments or benefit from any government support. Check an installer's MCS certification at mcscertified.com before commissioning. Only MCS certified installers can issue MCS installation certificates.
City and Guilds 2399 (Design, Erection and Verification of Solar Photovoltaic Systems) is the principal qualification for solar PV installers in the UK. Installers should also hold a Part P registered electrician qualification and be competent to work safely at height. Ask to see evidence of individual installer qualifications.
RECC membership provides additional consumer protections including a deposit protection scheme and access to independent dispute resolution. RECC members must be MCS certified and adhere to RECC's code of practice for marketing, selling and installing renewable energy systems. Check membership at recc.org.uk.
How to find a reputable solar panel installer
Related Calculators
Extension Cost CalculatorFrequently asked questions
Can I earn money from my solar panels with the Smart Export Guarantee?
Yes. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) requires licensed electricity suppliers with more than 150,000 customers to offer a tariff for electricity exported back to the grid from eligible small-scale renewable installations including solar PV. To be eligible your installation must be MCS certified and your property must have a smart meter. SEG rates vary between suppliers - typically 1p to 15p per kWh - so it is worth comparing tariffs. You will earn most from SEG by maximising self-consumption (using the electricity yourself rather than exporting it) and using a battery to store surplus generation.
How long is the payback period for solar panels?
Payback periods depend on system size, energy use, roof orientation and electricity price, but typical residential solar PV systems in the UK currently pay back in 8-12 years. South-facing roofs at 30-40 degree pitch will generate the most. A 4kWp system generating around 3,400 kWh per year, with electricity at 25p/kWh and a reasonable export tariff, might save or earn £800-1,200 per year, giving a payback of around 8-10 years on a £8,000-10,000 system. Payback improves if you add battery storage and use time-of-use tariffs.
Do solar panels need planning permission?
In most cases, solar panels on a private house are permitted development in England and do not require planning permission, provided they do not protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface and the installation is on a pitched roof that does not face a highway. Exceptions include listed buildings (which always require listed building consent), conservation areas (where panels on a roof that faces a highway require permission) and some flats or properties with conditions attached to their planning history. Always check with your local planning authority if in doubt.