How affordable are solar panels / batteries, and what is the payback time
The price of solar panels has dropped significantly. On average, a 4.5kWp system costs around £5,000, but the exact price depends on factors such as the size of your roof, scaffolding costs, and how many panels you install.
The payback time varies widely and depends on whether you are at home during the day (when the panels are generating electricity) and how much energy you use. For someone at home all day, the average saving is around £750 a year, meaning the panels would typically pay for themselves in about 7 years.
Can I sell my house for more with solar installed?
How to pay for solar panels without the upfront capital
Options for funding solar include:
Grant funding (for people on low incomes or with health conditions).
Finance options such as extending your mortgage, taking out a loan, or using an interest-free payment plan from a solar installer.
Solar subscription schemes, where you pay a monthly fee instead of an upfront cost.
For full details on funding options, please download our leaflet
Is there a modern equivalent to the Feed-in Tariff (FIT)?
There are no longer government subsidies for solar. However, you can get paid by your energy company for the electricity you export back to the grid. This is done through a Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) Tariff. It’s worth shopping around, as current rates vary from 1p to 15p per kWh. You do not have to choose your current electricity provider for this tariff.
Please note you get the best value from using the electricity rather than exporting it to the grid and getting paid for it!
Installation Practicalities
Where can you put solar panels and batteries?
As long as your property is not listed or in a conservation area, solar panels are permitted development (meaning that they do not require planning permission) on roof(s) and/or walls of any building (more details here), or in the grounds of your property (more details here). Shading can reduce your output so avoid chimneys, trees etc if possible!
Batteries are best separated from your living spaces by appropriate fire compartmentation e.g. on an outside wall or in a garage.
Can I install solar on a solid-walled 1850s house?
Yes — solar is suitable for most older properties. The wall construction doesn’t matter; the important factor is the strength of the roof. Your solar company will advise on this, and may recommend a structural engineer’s report if needed.
Could I lease out land for solar panels?
If you have land suitable for a solar farm, please contact Energise Sussex Coast — your land could help power Battle! We promote the community energy model, which ensures all profits benefit the local community and that restoring nature and biodiversity is part of every solar farm development.
Environmental Impact & Ethics
What are the environmental ethics of solar panels?
Solar panels generate electricity without producing pollution and help reduce reliance on fossil fuels, making them a vital part of tackling the climate crisis.
While carbon is emitted during manufacturing, it typically takes only about 1.5 years for a panel to “pay back” this carbon footprint. Solar panels are durable, with average guarantees of 25 years, and often continue to work efficiently for 10 years or more after that.
A key ethical concern is the use of forced labour in the Uyghur region of China to produce refined silicon, which is used in around 45% of UK panels. It can be difficult to ensure panels are free from this silicon, as materials from different sources are often blended. The industry is aware of the issue, and efforts are being made to address it. Please ask your installer how they ensure forced labour is not part of their supply chain. For more information, visit: https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/energy/shopping-guide/ethical-solar-panels
What happens to panels at the end of their life — can they be recycled?
Yes — solar panels are made from recyclable materials. All installers must be part of a scheme to collect and recycle panels. Contact your installer when your panels reach the end of their life.
It’s worth noting that although most panels come with a 25-year guarantee, they often last much longer.
Community & Behavioural Questions
How do I talk to neighbours about solar installations?
Some Battle residents with solar panels are opening their homes to neighbours so they can learn more and ask questions. This is a great way to spread the word about the benefits of solar! If you’re interested in becoming a ‘Solar Champion’ please contact Energise Sussex Coast for support.
Should I be concerned about visual impact or regulations?
If you live in a conservation area, you cannot install solar panels that are visible from the road. In this case, you might consider alternatives such as a garage, outbuilding, or freestanding panels on nearby land.
