A solar PV installer is an MCS certified specialist who designs, supplies and installs solar photovoltaic panel systems on residential and commercial rooftops and on ground-mounted arrays. Solar PV converts daylight into electricity that can be used in the building, stored in a battery, or exported to the grid via the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). MCS certification is mandatory for the installer if the customer wishes to access SEG tariff payments. Installers must also be registered with NICEIC or NAPIT as a Part P competent electrician to self-certify the electrical installation.
What they do
- Roof and site surveys including shading analysis
- System sizing and panel and inverter specification
- Panel installation, mounting and wiring
- DNO (Distribution Network Operator) notification for grid connection
- MCS certificate issue on completion
- Battery storage integration and smart tariff setup
- SEG application support
- Annual inspections and maintenance
When you need one
A solar PV installer is needed whenever you want to generate your own electricity, reduce energy bills or register for Smart Export Guarantee payments.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Solar PV 3.5kWp system (supply and install) | £5,000 - £7,500 |
| Solar PV 6kWp system (supply and install) | £7,500 - £11,000 |
| Battery storage addition (9.5kWh) | £2,500 - £4,500 |
| Solar and battery package | £8,000 - £14,000 |
| Ground-mount premium | +20-30% |
| Annual inspection and cleaning | £100 - £200 |
Costs vary by roof pitch, access, panel brand and location. Always obtain at least two MCS certified quotes.
Qualifications to look for
MCS certification is mandatory for installers whose customers want to register for Smart Export Guarantee tariff payments. Verify at mcscertified.com before appointing.
Solar PV is a notifiable electrical installation under Part P of the Building Regulations. The installer must be registered with a competent person scheme such as NICEIC or NAPIT to self-certify the work.
The City and Guilds 2399 qualification covers design, installation and commissioning of solar PV systems and is the standard trade qualification for solar installers.
How to find a reputable solar PV installer
Frequently asked questions
How much electricity does a solar panel system generate?
A 4kWp system in the UK generates approximately 3,400-4,200 kWh per year depending on location and orientation - enough to cover 80-100% of a typical household's daytime electricity use.
Can I sell electricity back to the grid?
Yes via the Smart Export Guarantee - energy suppliers with 150,000+ customers must offer an SEG tariff. Rates currently range from 1-15p/kWh. You need an MCS certificate and a suitable export meter.
Do solar panels work in cloudy weather?
Yes - solar panels generate electricity from daylight not direct sunlight. Output is reduced on cloudy days but UK panels typically generate 10-15% of rated output on an overcast day.