Solar PV suits most homes with a reasonably sunny roof, heat pumps suit well-insulated homes replacing oil, LPG, electric or ageing gas heating, and small wind only suits exposed, rural sites with space. Most people get the best result by fixing insulation first, then adding one technology at a time.
Grants help mainly with heat pumps (Boiler Upgrade Scheme). Solar PV earns money through the Smart Export Guarantee. For both, using an MCS-certified installer is usually what unlocks the money.
Which technology suits your property?
The guides
At a glance: cost and payback
| Technology | Typical installed cost | Main financial help | MCS needed? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solar PV (about 4kWp) | About £5,500 to £8,000 | Smart Export Guarantee payments for exported power | For SEG up to 50kW |
| Home battery | About £4,000 to £9,000 (roughly 5 to 13kWh) | Savings from time-shifting; 0% VAT applies to installs until 31 March 2027 | Usually installed with solar |
| Air source heat pump | About £7,000 to £14,000 before grant | Boiler Upgrade Scheme: £7,500 (£9,000 for eligible off-gas homes to 31 March 2027) | Yes, for the grant |
| Ground source heat pump | Typically £18,000 or more | Boiler Upgrade Scheme: £7,500 | Yes, for the grant |
| Small wind | Site-specific; often poor value in towns | Smart Export Guarantee | For SEG up to 50kW |
Costs are indicative ranges from MCS and government data and installer price guides. They vary with property, region and specification. See each guide for how payback is worked out.
The basics every project needs
Insulation first
A well-insulated, draught-proofed home needs a smaller, cheaper system and costs less to run. This matters most for heat pumps. See our insulation calculator.
MCS certification
MCS certification is not a legal requirement, but grants and export payments depend on it. Read our MCS certification guide before you sign a contract.
Grants and export payments
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme and the Warm Homes: Local Grant are the main schemes. For exported electricity, see Smart Export Guarantee.
Planning and Building Regulations
Many installations are permitted development in England, but conditions apply, especially for listed buildings and conservation areas. The rules for solar changed in August 2026 and for heat pumps in May 2025. Use our permitted development checker and read the technology guides.
Electricity price context
The Ofgem price cap averages about 26.3p per kWh for electricity from October to December 2026, with a standing charge of about 54.8p a day. This is a UK average for a default tariff, so your own rate will differ.
Calculators
Sources and further reading
- Ofgem: energy price cap and standing charges Electricity unit rates and standing charges
- GOV.UK: Apply for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme Who can apply and what the grant covers
- MCS: the quality mark for small-scale renewables Certification and the installer directory
External links open in a new tab. Last checked October 2026.
Frequently asked questions
What renewable technology should I install first?
Improve insulation first, then choose based on your aim. Solar PV is the most widely suitable way to cut electricity bills. A heat pump suits well-insulated homes replacing oil, LPG, electric or ageing gas heating.
Do I need MCS certification?
It is not a legal requirement, but you generally need an MCS-certified installer for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and to join a Smart Export Guarantee tariff for systems up to 50kW.
Are renewables worth it in the UK?
It depends on the property, usage and cost. Solar PV and heat pumps can both cut running costs, but payback varies widely, so use realistic quotes and our calculators.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels or a heat pump?
Often not in England, as both can be permitted development, but conditions apply and rules differ for listed buildings, conservation areas, flats and the other UK nations. Check before you commit.