Solar PV is an established and growing source of renewable electricity in the UK. More than 1.5 million homes across the country now have solar installed, and solar continues to play an important role in the UK’s transition towards a cleaner electricity system.

There are many potential benefits to installing solar PV. By generating electricity onsite, businesses can reduce the amount of electricity they need to purchase from the grid and may reduce their electricity costs. Actual savings and estimated payback periods vary depending on factors such as system size, site location, roof orientation, electricity consumption, generation profile and applicable energy tariffs.

Solar PV systems are designed for long-term operation and generally require relatively low routine maintenance. Product performance, expected lifespan and warranty periods vary depending on the equipment and manufacturer selected.

The Feed-in Tariff (FIT) scheme closed to new applications in 2019, although existing accredited installations continue to receive support in accordance with their eligibility terms. The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), introduced in 2020, allows eligible small-scale generators to receive payments from participating electricity suppliers for eligible renewable electricity exported to the grid. SEG tariff rates, eligibility requirements and contract terms vary between suppliers.