Solar Panels in 2026: Is Now Really a Good Time?
If you’ve been waiting to install solar, 2026 is one of the best windows in the past decade.
Why prices are low
Panel prices have fallen 50 % since 2020 thanks to mass Chinese manufacturing. UK installers are competing aggressively. A 4 kW system that cost £8,000 in 2022 now installs for £6,500-£8,800.
Why returns are still strong
- UK electricity prices remain high (28-33 p/kWh)
- Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariffs: 15-25 p/kWh on Octopus Outgoing and EDF Export
- Battery payback now 8-11 years (was 15+ in 2020)
- EV-aware chargers transform solar economics if you have a car
Typical 2026 payback
| System | Cost | Annual saving | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 kW only | £7,000 | £700-£900 | 8-10 yr |
| 4 kW + 5 kWh battery | £11,000 | £1,200-£1,500 | 7-9 yr |
| 5 kW + 10 kWh + EV | £15,000 | £1,800-£2,500 | 6-8 yr |