An Honest Breakdown for UK Homeowners
If you’ve searched “is solar still worth it in 2026?” you’ve probably seen wildly different answers.
Some say the payback isn’t there anymore.
Others claim you’ll be “off-grid and free forever.”
The truth (as always) sits somewhere in the middle.
This guide breaks down what’s actually changed, what hasn’t, and who solar still makes sense for in 2026 (and who it doesn’t).
No hype. Just facts, numbers, and real-world insight from installers working on UK homes every week.
What’s Changed Since the Solar Boom Years?
Solar in 2026 isn’t worse – it’s different.
1. Feed-in Tariffs Are Gone (But That’s Not the Whole Story)
The old Feed-in Tariff (FIT) scheme (where homeowners were paid generous rates just for generating electricity) closed years ago.
Today, exports are paid through Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) tariffs instead.
- Typical SEG rates: 4–15p per kWh
- Rates vary by supplier and change frequently
- Export payments are now a bonus, not the main reason to go solar
Key shift:
Solar is no longer about selling power back to the grid.
It’s about using as much of your own energy as possible.
2. Electricity Prices Are Still High (and Volatile)
While prices aren’t at their 2022 peak, they’re significantly higher than pre-energy-crisis levels.
That matters because:
- Every unit of solar you use directly avoids buying electricity at ~25–30p/kWh
- The more you self-consume, the faster the system pays back
This is why solar + batteries has become the new normal.
The Biggest Upgrade: Batteries Have Changed the Game
In 2018, batteries were expensive and optional.
In 2026, they’re often the difference between solar being “okay” and solar being excellent.
Why Batteries Matter Now
Without a battery:
- You use solar mainly during daylight
- Excess energy is exported cheaply
- Evening usage still comes from the grid
With a battery:
- You store daytime solar for evenings
- You reduce grid reliance dramatically
- You protect yourself against future price rises
Typical result:
Homes with batteries often self-consume 60–80% of their solar generation.
Is Solar Still Financially Worth It in 2026?
Let’s talk real numbers.
Typical UK Home Example
- 4kW solar system
- Optional 5–7kWh battery
- South or west-facing roof
Estimated annual savings:
- £700–£1,200 depending on usage and tariffs
Payback period:
- Solar only: ~7–9 years
- Solar + battery: ~8–11 years
System lifespan:
- Panels: 25–30+ years
- Inverters: 10–15 years
- Batteries: 10–15 years
After payback, your electricity is effectively free for the remainder of the system life.
What About Government Support in 2026?
While there’s no single nationwide “free solar for everyone” scheme, funding has increased, not decreased.
The UK government has committed £15 billion to improving home energy efficiency through insulation, low-carbon heating, and renewable upgrades.
This includes:
- Local authority-led funding
- Warm homes initiatives
- Means-tested and property-specific schemes
These are delivered through programmes backed by UK Government and administered locally, which is why eligibility varies so much.
Check our Warm Homes Plan section on our website for more details.
Important:
Solar often becomes far more affordable when bundled with insulation or heating upgrades under these schemes.
Who Solar Makes the Most Sense for in 2026
Solar is still a brilliant investment if you fit one (or more) of these categories:
✔ You Use Energy During the Day
Remote workers, families, home businesses — daytime usage boosts savings instantly.
✔ You’re Adding a Battery
This is the single biggest upgrade for modern systems.
✔ You Plan to Stay Put
Solar rewards long-term ownership. The longer you live there, the bigger the return.
✔ You Want Protection From Future Price Rises
Solar is less about beating today’s prices — more about locking in tomorrow’s.
When Solar Might Not Be Worth It
Let’s be honest — it’s not right for everyone.
Solar may not stack up if:
- Your roof is heavily shaded all day
- You’re planning to move within 2–3 years
- You use very little electricity overall
- You can’t self-consume much energy and won’t add a battery
A good installer will tell you this upfront.
The Biggest Mistake Homeowners Still Make
Choosing solar based on price alone.
Cheap systems often mean:
- Poor system design
- No battery optimisation
- Little explanation of tariffs or funding
- Lower real-world savings than promised
In 2026, design matters more than ever.
So… Is Solar Still Worth It in 2026?
For most UK homeowners?
Yes — when it’s designed properly, paired with storage, and matched to your lifestyle.
Solar is no longer a “get rich quick” scheme.
It’s a long-term hedge against rising energy costs, with strong returns when done right.
The real question isn’t “Is solar worth it?”
It’s “Is this solar system designed properly for my home?”
If you want to explore whether solar makes sense for your property, including funding options and realistic savings. Simply fill out the form below or give us a call on 01422 768113.