Wondering what solar panels actually cost in Northern Ireland? You’re not alone. With so much conflicting information online, it’s hard to know what you’ll really pay.
Here’s the straight answer: solar panel systems in Northern Ireland start from around £3,500 for a basic setup, but most homes need something bigger. A typical 3.5kW system costs £4,800, while larger 4kW+ systems run £5,000-£6,000.
I’ve checked with installers across Northern Ireland to get you the real numbers people are paying right now.
What You’ll Actually Pay: Real Market Prices
Small systems (2-3kW): £3,500-£4,500
- Good for small houses or low energy users
- About 8-12 panels
Standard systems (3.5kW): £4,800-£5,500
- Most popular size for 3-bedroom houses
- Around 10-14 panels
Larger systems (4-5kW): £5,500-£7,000
- For bigger homes or high energy users
- 14-20 panels
These prices include everything – panels, inverter, installation, and the 0% VAT that’s already factored in.
Real Examples from NI Installers
Power to Switch data:
- £480 per 350W panel
- 3.5kW system: £4,800 complete
Smart Solar Panels NI (Derry):
- Systems from £5,995 including installation
- Covers domestic and commercial
EECO Energy (Limavady):
- Customer testimonial: 70% reduction in electricity bills
- One customer now pays £250/year, earns £400 from exports
What’s Included vs What Costs Extra
Normally included in standard quotes:
- Solar panels and mounting system
- Inverter (converts DC to AC)
- Installation labour (1-2 days typically)
- Electrical connections and safety equipment
- System testing and commissioning
Common extras:
- Battery storage: Add £3,000-£5,000
- Scaffolding (if needed): Add £300-£600
- EV charging point: Add £800-£1,200
Why Prices Vary
Panel quality:
- Budget panels: £400-£500 each
- Standard panels: £480 each (350W)
- Premium panels: £500+ each
Roof complexity:
- Simple roof: Standard pricing
- Complex roof: Add 10-20%
- Difficult access: Extra for scaffolding
What You’ll Save
Using real Northern Ireland data:
3.5kW system (£4,800 cost):
- Annual electricity savings: £513
- Export payments: £50-£150 (via Action Renewables or Power NI)
- Total annual benefit: £563-£663
- Payback period: 7-8 years
Larger systems generate better returns:
- Solarfix reports typical domestic systems save £1,000+ annually
- One EECO customer: £250/year electricity costs, £400/year export income
- Commercial systems: 3-5 year payback periods
Hidden Costs to Watch For
Most quotes are comprehensive, but watch for:
- Scaffolding on difficult properties: £300-£800
- Electrical upgrades: £200-£500
- Planning permission (rare): £150+
Red flags:
- Prices that seem too good to be true
- Pressure to sign immediately
- Vague descriptions of what’s included
- Door-to-door sales tactics
Battery Storage: Worth It?
Battery costs: £3,000-£5,000 for most homes When it makes sense: You’re out during the day, want backup power When it doesn’t: You’re home during daylight, want quickest payback
Batteries add 3-5 years to payback but give more energy independence.
Getting Quotes: What to Ask
Essential questions:
- What’s the total installed price with no extras?
- What panel brand and capacity?
- What warranties are included?
- Are you MCS certified?
- How long will installation take?
Get at least three quotes and compare like-for-like systems.
Financing Options
Solar loans: Some banks offer green energy loans at 4-8% APR Personal loans: More flexible but potentially higher rates Installer finance: Available but usually more expensive
Avoid rent-a-roof schemes where you don’t own the panels.
The Bottom Line
Solar panels in Northern Ireland start from £3,500 but most homes need £4,800-£6,000 systems. With 0% VAT, stable pricing, and payback periods of 6-8 years, it’s a solid long-term investment.
The key is getting quotes from reputable local installers who’ll give you honest advice based on your actual needs.
Don’t rush, but don’t wait forever either. Current conditions are pretty good for going solar in Northern Ireland.