Solar Panels: What Homeowners Should Know in 2026

A concise guide to solar panel types, battery storage, the Smart Export Guarantee, and whether solar makes financial sense for your property. ## How Solar Works for Homeowners Solar PV panels convert sunlight into electricity. A typical 4kWp system (10 panels) generates 3,400–4,200 kWh per year in southern England — roughly matching the annual electricity consumption of an average UK household.

## Panel Types **Monocrystalline** — highest efficiency (20–22%), best for limited roof space. The most common choice for UK domestic installations. **Polycrystalline** — slightly lower efficiency (15–18%), marginally cheaper. Less common in 2026 as monocrystalline prices have fallen. **All-black panels** — monocrystalline with black frames and backsheets.

No performance difference; chosen for aesthetics. ## Battery Storage Adding a battery (typically 5–13 kWh capacity) allows you to store surplus generation for evening use. This increases self-consumption from approximately 30–40% to 60–80%. | Battery Size | Typical Cost | Best For | |---|---|---| | 5 kWh | £2,500–£4,000 | Small households, low evening usage | | 10 kWh | £4,500–£7,000 | Average households | | 13 kWh | £6,000–£9,000 | Larger households, EV charging | ## Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) You can sell surplus electricity back to the grid.

Rates vary by supplier (typically 4–15p/kWh in 2026). Registration is free; your installer should handle MCS certification. ## Is Solar Worth It? For a south-facing roof with minimal shading, a typical 4kWp system costs £5,000–£7,000 installed and saves £800–£1,200 per year at current electricity prices. Payback is typically 5–7 years.

## Planning Permission Solar panels are **permitted development** on most residential properties. Exceptions: listed buildings, conservation areas (front-facing), and flats. Always check with your local planning authority if in doubt. --- ### What to do next If you are considering solar panels or battery storage, EvoHome Improvements can help you understand whether the property is suitable, plan the project sensibly and, where appropriate, connect it with suitable independent installers or specialists.

EvoHome does not carry out the works directly. Start here: [/start](/start). You can also read more about how this service works at [/services/solar-panel-installation](/services/solar-panel-installation).