While the immediate savings on electricity bills are the most obvious benefit of solar panels, the long term value they add to your home is often the most significant financial return. Solar panels are a powerful future proofing upgrade that improves your property’s market appeal and Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating.
The Direct Link to a Higher EPC Rating
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates a home’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Since 2008, all properties for sale or rent in the UK must have one, making it a critical metric for buyers and regulators.
Installing solar PV panels is one of the most effective ways to boost your EPC rating. By generating clean electricity and reducing your reliance on grid power, you directly lower your carbon footprint and home’s energy demand.
A typical solar installation can add between 5 and 15 points to your EPC score, often enough to move your property up a full band. An EPC of C or above is increasingly important in the UK. New regulations in discussion now are proposing that a minimum legal standard of Band C or above will be necessary for rental properties.
The Impact on Property Value and Saleability
Beyond the formal EPC rating, solar panels are now viewed by many buyers not as a niche add on, but as a crucial, money saving fixture, much like a modern boiler or double glazing. Multiple studies have found that homes with a solar PV system can sell for a premium, uplifting the property value by up to 14% in some cases.
Demand for sustainable homes is growing as the UK becomes more aware of climate change and the money saving benefits of solar panels. Up to 70% of UK buyers report being likely or very likely to purchase a home with solar panels.
Savings are transferable, new homeowners inherit the immediate benefit of lower bill and the potential to earn money through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Buyers recognise that a solar panel installation protects your home against volatile energy prices, and are already compliant with tightening environmental standards.
Key Selling Points to Highlight
If you are looking to sell your property that has a solar installation, make sure your Estate Agent is aware of the following factors that are big selling points:
- The Cost to Run Feature: Emphasise the calculated annual energy saving and the low running cost band achieved by a high EPC rating.
- The System’s Warranty: new owners will benefit from long product and performance warranties that can be transferred, guaranteeing system efficiency for decades.
- Battery Integration: if battery storage is included, this is a major selling point, as it drastically increases energy independence and electricity bill savings, allowing the home to use its own solar generated power around the clock.
Ready to Start Your Solar Journey?
Installing a solar PV system is not just an environmental decision or an energy bill decision, it’s a smart, value added investment in the future saleability of your property.
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.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
