Are Solar Panels Worth It?

What determines whether solar is worth it

Three things matter most: how much electricity you use, when you use it, and your roof. Households that use a decent amount of power during daylight hours — people working from home, families, EV owners — tend to benefit most, because they use more of what they generate rather than exporting it cheaply.

Roof matters

A south-facing, unshaded roof with a reasonable pitch will generate the most. East/west roofs still work well and can actually suit household demand better, spreading generation across morning and evening. Heavy shading from trees or chimneys is the main thing that undermines a system.

What about payback?

Payback periods vary widely with energy prices, your tariff, system size and export rates. Be sceptical of any company quoting a single guaranteed payback figure — a reputable installer will model it against your actual usage. Adding battery storage increases the up-front cost but usually increases how much of your own generation you use.

Who might it not suit?

If your roof is heavily shaded, very small, north-facing only, or you plan to move very soon, the case is weaker. An honest installer will tell you that — which is exactly why comparing several quotes is worthwhile.

This article is general information. Costs and savings vary by property, energy use and tariff.