As energy prices continue to impact tenants and landlords alike, more HMO property owners across the South East and East Anglia are exploring solar panels as a long term investment. From reducing communal electricity costs to increasing property appeal and improving EPC ratings, solar for HMOs is becoming a practical upgrade rather than a luxury.
At SolarTherm UK, we work with landlords and property owners across Essex, Kent, Suffolk and the surrounding South East and East Anglia to design solar systems that match real world property usage.
This guide explains how solar works for HMOs, typical savings, battery storage considerations and what landlords should know before installing a system.
What Is an HMO?
A House of Multiple Occupation (HMO) is a property rented by three or more tenants from different households who share communal facilities such as kitchens or bathrooms.
HMOs often have:
- Higher electricity usage than standard homes
- Shared communal energy bills
- Multiple occupants using electricity throughout the day
- Increased EPC pressures from legislation
- Higher operating costs for landlords
Due to this, HMOs are often excellent candidates for solar PV systems.
Why Are HMO Landlords Installing Solar Panels?
There are several reasons solar has become increasingly popular for HMOs across the UK.
Lower Communal Electricity Bills
Many HMOs have landlord paid electricity. Hallway lighting, fire safety systems, internet equipment, shared kitchens, utility rooms, CCTV, room electricity and electric heating and hot water systems are all paid for by the landlord and usually included as a part of the monthly rent. Solar panels can offset a large percentage of daytime usage, helping reduce monthly operating costs.
Improve EPC Ratings
Energy efficiency regulations are becoming increasingly important for landlords. Installing solar panels can help improve EPC ratings by reducing grid electricity dependency and improving overall building efficiency. This can be especially valuable for older HMO properties common across Essex, Kent, Suffolk and the surrounding South East and East Anglia.
Improved EPC ratings may also:
- Increase property value
- Improve mortgage options
- Help future proof the property against regulatory changes
- Make rooms easier to market to tenants
Solar Makes HMOs More Attractive to Tenants
Tenants are increasingly aware of energy costs. Properties with lower running costs and better sustainability credentials often stand out in competitive rental markets.
Benefits tenants notice include:
- Lower utility contributions
- Reduced environmental impact
- More stable energy costs
- Modern, upgraded properties
For all inclusive HMOs, lower energy bills can also help protect landlord profit margins.
How Much Can an HMO Save With Solar?
Savings will depend from property to property and are affected by system size, property size, number of tenants, roof space, orientation and shading and whether battery storage is included.
A typical medium sized HMO in the South East may install a system between 6kWp and 15kWp.
As a rough example:
| System Size | Estimated Annual Generation | Potential Annual Savings* |
| 6kW | 5,000–6,000 kWh | £1,000–£1,500 |
| 10kW | 8,000–9,500 kWh | £1,600–£2,500 |
| 15kW | 12,000–14,000 kWh | £2,500–£4,000 |
*Estimates vary based on energy tariffs and property usage patterns.
As HMOs often use electricity consistently throughout the day, self-consumption rates can be higher than standard residential homes – improving solar return on investment.
Is Battery Storage Worth It for HMOs?
In many cases, yes. Battery storage allows surplus daytime solar generation to be stored and used later in the evening when tenants are still actively using electricity. This can help reduce reliance on expensive peak rate electricity.
Battery systems may be particularly useful for HMOs with:
- High evening electricity usage
- Electric hot water systems
- EV charging
- Landlord paid utilities
- Time of use tariffs
At SolarTherm UK, we assess actual consumption patterns before recommending battery sizing, helping landlords avoid overspending on unnecessary storage capacity.
Can Solar Panels Be Installed on Older HMO Properties?
Yes – many period and older properties can still accommodate solar panels. Before installation, a professional installer should carry out a full survey to assess:
- Roof condition
- Structural integrity
- Available roof space
- Shading
- Existing electrical infrastructure
- Fuse board suitability
Some older HMO properties may also benefit from electrical upgrades before solar installations.
Are There Planning Permission Requirements?
In most cases, solar panels on residential properties fall under permitted development rights. However, planning considerations my apply if the property is listed, in a conservation area or subject to local restrictions. An experienced installer can advicse on this during the survey process.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) for Landlords
If your solar system exports excess electricity back to the grid, you may qualify for Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) payments. This allows landlords to earn money from unused electricity generation. Export rates can vary by energy supplier and tariff, with most suppliers paying more to existing customers who are importing electricity from them already.
Choosing the Right Solar Installer for an HMO
HMOs have different energy demands compared to standard residential homes. A quality installer should assess:
- Daytime baseload usage
- Occupancy patterns
- Future electricity demand
- Battery compatibility
- Roof optimisation
- Long term return on investment
At SolarTherm UK, we design systems tailored to the property’s real energy profile rather than relying on generic estimates.
Why Solar for HMOs Makes Sense in 2026
For many landlords, solar is no longer simply an environmental decision. It is increasingly a financial and operational investment that can:
- Reduce long term electricity costs
- Improve EPC performance
- Increase tenant appeal
- Future proof rental properties
- Support property value growth
With electricity prices remaining volatile, generating your own energy can provide greater long term predictability for HMO operating costs.
Why Choose SolarTherm UK?
SolarTherm UK specialises in residential solar and battery installations across the South East and East Anglia.
We focus on:
- Tailored system design
- Honest performance estimates, independently verified by EPVS for accuracy
- High quality equipment
- Professional installation standards
- Long term customer support
Every property is assessed individually to ensure systems are designed for real world performance and long term value.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are solar panels worth it for HMOs?
In many cases, yes. HMOs typically use a high amount of electricity throughout the day, making them well suited to solar energy generation.
Can tenants use electricity directly from solar panels?
Yes. Electricity generated by solar panels is used automatically within the property before importing energy from the grid.
How many solar panels does an HMO need?
This depends on the property size and energy usage. Many HMOs install systems between 6kW and 15kW.
Do solar panels increase EPC ratings?
Solar panels can help improve EPC scores by reducing reliance on grid electricity and improving overall energy efficiency.
Is battery storage necessary for HMOs?
Not always, but batteries can increase self-consumption and reduce evening electricity imports.
Can I install solar panels on a rented property?
Yes. Landlords can install solar panels on rental properties, including HMOs, subject to property suitability and any planning restrictions.
How long do solar panels last?
Most modern solar panels are designed to last 25 years or more with minimal maintenance.
