One of the most common questions we’re asked at SolarTherm UK is straightforward:
“Will installing solar panels increase the value of my home?”
It’s an important question, particularly for homeowners in the South East where property values are already significant and long term asset performance matters. However, like most property related topics, the answer is nuanced.
This article examines the available UK research, explains what it actually shows and outlines what homeowners should realistically expect when installing a solar PV system.
The Link Between Solar PV and Property Value
There is credible UK research indicating that homes with solar panels can achieve a price premium. However, the size of that premium varies significantly by area, EPC rating and property type. System design, age and ownership structure can also impact the effect solar has on the price of your home.
Key UK Studies
Swansea University (2024)
A large scale study analysing approximately 1.5 million house sales (2012-2018 data) suggested homes with solar panels sold at a premium of around 6.1-7.1%. The dataset covered years when the Feed In Tariff was available and highlighted significant regional and demographic variation.
Admiral (2022)
An insurance sector study examining Rightmove data across 13 UK cities reported that buyers were willing to pay up to 25% more for homes with solar panels. This is at the higher end of the published spectrum and reflects selected urban comparisons rather than a nationwide valuation rule.
Solar Energy UK (2021)
Analysis of over five million property transactions indicated a more conservative uplift of approximately 0.9-2%, equating to roughly £1,800-£2,700 on a typical home. This is substantially lower than some other published figures and reinforces how variable outcomes can be.
EPC Ratings: The Overlooked Factor
Several studies – including research published by Halifax (2021) and later supported by Rightmove (2023) – show that improvements in EPC rating bands are associated with higher property values.
Crucially, that value uplift is linked to the ECP improvement, not solar panels alone. Other measures such as insulation upgrades or boiler replacements can also contribute.
Solar PV typically improved a property’s EPC score, which may indirectly support resale value. However, it is not the only route to EPC improvement and uplift figures cannot be attributed exclusively to solar.
Can Solar Panels Ever Reduce Saleability?
While most recent research trends positive, it would be incomplete to ignore contrary considerations. Occasionally, concerns on the aesthetic impact, especially on period or conservation properties would decrease the house value. Misunderstandings and misconceptions about solar panel maintenance and buyer renovation plans have also decreased property value in the past.
Older localised research (e.g a small Oxford area survey from 2011) suggested some hesitation amongst buyers. However, given the substantial increase in electricity prices since 2021 and the widespread adoption of solar across the South East since then, sentiment has shifted considerably.
Today, solar installations are common in areas across Essex, Kent and the wider South East – and increasingly seen as a normal feature of modern housing stock.
The Legal and Compliance Perspective
In the past, some sales approaches in the UK renewable sector implied that a solar installation would automatically increase a property’s value by more than the cost of the system – effectively making it “free”.
That is a problematic claim – with little data to back it.
Under Section 56 of the Consumer Credit Act 1974, misrepresentation by a supplier can expose both the installer and lender to serious consequences, including contract rescission and full reimbursement.
From a compliance standpoint property value uplift is speculative and no installer can guarantee the resale outcomes. Regional variation needs to be acknowledged. At SolarTherm UK, we treat projected property uplift as an external market factor, not a sales guarantee.
So, What Should Homeowners in the South East Expect?
Here is the balanced position:
- Research suggests homes with solar panels often achieve a premium
- The scale of uplift varies widely (approximately 0.9-7% in most robust studies)
- Some higher figures exist but are location and methodology specific
- Improvements in EPC banding contribute to value, not solar alone
- No individual property uplift can be guaranteed
For a £500,000 home in the South East, a 1% uplift is £5,000 and a 6% uplift is £30,000. That is a wide spectrum. Market conditions, mortgage availability, energy prices and buyer preferences all influence outcomes.
The Real Financial Case for Solar
From an investment perspective, the primary financial drivers remain reduced electricity bills and protection against long term energy price volatility. Battery storage optimisation and export payments can improve your return on investment. Any uplift in property value should be considered a potential secondary benefit – not the sole financial justification.
At SolarTherm UK we see gaining a secure energy future and independence from expensive grid energy as the main benefit of solar panel and battery storage installation.
Why Market Transparency Matters
For the solar industry to maintain momentum and public confidence, clarity is essential. Balanced, evidence led information:
- Protects homeowners
- Protects lenders
- Protects installers
- Supports SolarTherm UK’s position of long term industry creditbility
At SolarTherm UK, serving homeowners across the South East, we prioritise:
- Accurate system performance modelling
- Realistic financial forecasting
- Clear explanation of EPC implications
- Transparent discussion of resale considerations
This approach builds trust – and long term trust improves both customer satisfaction and brand authority. Working alongside EPVS (Energy Performance Verification Scheme) our quotes and estimates are validated for accuracy, ensuring no forecast is overinflated or unrealistic.
Final Thoughts: Does Solar Add Value?
In most cases, yes – evidence indicates that solar PV can contribute positively to property value. But:
It is not universal.
It is not guaranteed.
And it is not uniform across regions.
The strongest case for installing solar panels remains what happens while you live in the property: lower bills, greater energy resilience and reduced reliance on volatile grid pricing.
If you would like an evidence based assessment for your South East home, contact SolarTherm UK today for a free, no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice – and the time you need to make an informed decision.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
