This guide is for UK homeowners planning a solar array on their home. It covers how an installer designs your array, when to add battery storage and how to fund the work. We use published sources from MCS, the Energy Saving Trust, GOV.UK and MoneySavingExpert. We do not quote prices or output figures, because each home differs.
Independent guide. We are not a lender or a government body. Always check current scheme rules with the official provider.
Planning your solar array
A solar array is the full set of panels on your roof. Its design depends on your roof, your energy use and any shading. A good installer surveys your home before they suggest a design. The points below shape every array.
- Roof direction and pitch affect how much sunlight the panels receive.
- Shading from trees, chimneys or nearby buildings reduces output.
- Usable roof space limits how many panels fit.
- Your yearly electricity use guides the size of the system.
- Roof condition decides whether repairs are needed first.
Ask your local council whether any planning rules apply to your home. Rules can differ for listed buildings and conservation areas.
Adding battery storage
A battery stores electricity from your array for use later. This lets you use more of your own generation. You can fit a battery with the panels or add one later. Ask installers to quote both options.
The Warm Homes Loan Scheme treats battery storage as a separate measure. Battery storage has a £15,000 maximum, and solar panels have their own £15,000 maximum. Final eligibility rules are not yet published.
Funding your array
Treasury backing lets scheme lenders offer rates up to 5 percentage points below normal. Some borrowers may get 0%. Terms run from 3 years up to 30 years in some cases, and some products are secured loans. Terms over 20 years can carry higher rates and a much higher total cost.
Three details are not yet confirmed. The Government has not published the eligibility rules. It has not confirmed how or when you apply. Each lender has not yet published its rates. Follow the steps below to prepare.
- Gather a year of electricity bills.
- Find three MCS-certified installers through the MCS installer search.
- Book a survey and ask for an array design with each quote.
- Ask for separate prices for panels and for any battery.
- Compare the total cost of credit for each funding option.
- Check any lender on the official list and on the FCA register.
Checklist
- A year of electricity bills
- Shading and roof condition noted
- Planning rules checked with your council
- Three MCS-certified quotes with array designs
- Separate battery quote received
- Lender checked on the official list and FCA register
Frequently asked questions
What is a solar array?
A solar array is the full set of solar panels fitted to your home.
Do I need planning permission?
Ask your local council. Rules can differ for listed buildings and conservation areas.
Should I add a battery to my array?
A battery lets you store your own electricity for later. Ask installers to quote with and without one.
How much can I borrow for panels and a battery?
The Warm Homes Loan Scheme sets a £15,000 maximum for solar panels and a separate £15,000 maximum for battery storage.
Who designs the array?
Your installer designs it after a survey. Choose an MCS-certified installer.
So you can plan an array that fits your roof, your energy use and your budget.
WHLS Editorial Team
Our editorial team writes independent, plain-English guides on home energy finance. We review guides when scheme rules change.
References
- GOV.UK – Notice of approved grant categories and values for the Boiler Upgrade Scheme (opens in a new tab)
- Energy Saving Trust – Boiler Upgrade Scheme (opens in a new tab)
- MoneySavingExpert – Warm Homes Loan Scheme news (October 2026) (opens in a new tab)
- Financial Conduct Authority – Financial Services Register (opens in a new tab)
- MCS – Find an installer (opens in a new tab)
