Solar Panels in Lancashire – Do They Actually Work Up Here?
Yes, solar panels work brilliantly in Lancashire despite what you’ve heard about the weather. I’ve been installing systems across the county for years, and typical 4kW setups generate 850-950 kWh per kW annually – that’s proper decent output. Most homeowners save £400-£800 a year on their electricity bills, with systems paying for themselves in 6-10 years.
Here’s what surprises people: Lancashire’s cloudy weather actually helps panels last longer because they don’t overheat like they do down south. Modern panels work on daylight, not sunshine, so even overcast days produce plenty of electricity. Plus, the rain cleans your panels for free – people in drier areas pay for cleaning services.
Installation costs run £4,000-£6,500 for a standard 4kW system after the government’s 0% VAT relief. You’ll also get paid 3-7p per kWh for excess electricity through the Smart Export Guarantee. With Lancashire’s competitive installer market and lower labour costs than London, you’re getting solid value.
How Well Do Solar Panels Actually Work in Lancashire?
Does Lancashire get enough sun for solar panels?
Look, I hear this constantly: “But it’s always raining in Lancashire!” And yeah, we get our fair share of drizzle. But solar panels work just fine here – I’ve installed hundreds across Preston, Blackpool, Lancaster, and the rural areas, and they all perform well.
Modern panels don’t need blazing sunshine. They work on daylight – even when it’s overcast, you’re generating electricity. Lancashire gets about 1,000 kWh per square metre of solar energy annually. That’s the same as Germany, and they’ve got millions of solar panels over there.
Here’s the thing most people don’t realise: our 850-950 kWh per kW annually is only 10-15% less than southern England, but our cooler temperatures make panels run more efficiently. Down south, panels lose efficiency when they get too hot. Up here, they’re running at optimal temperature year-round.
I’ve done installs from Morecambe down to Chorley, from Blackpool across to Burnley. Every single one generates solid electricity. The key is getting the system designed properly for your specific roof.
What generation can I expect from my Lancashire home?
A typical 4kW system around Lancashire generates 3,400-3,800 kWh a year. That covers 80-100% of what most households use – proper significant generation.
You’ll see big seasonal swings though:
- Winter (Dec-Jan): 150-200 kWh per month – still useful, just less
- Spring/Autumn: 300-400 kWh per month – consistently decent
- Summer (May-Jul): 450-550 kWh per month – this is where you really see the benefit
Even during Lancashire’s wettest months, panels keep generating from whatever daylight gets through. I’ve checked systems during proper miserable weeks in January, and they’re still producing electricity every day.
South-facing roofs with 30-40 degree pitch give you the best numbers. East and west-facing roofs work fine too – you get about 75-85% of what south-facing produces, but generation spreads more evenly through the day which sometimes suits people better.
North-facing? Don’t bother. You’ll only get 40-50% of what you should, which makes the numbers not work. I turn down jobs with only north-facing roof space – I’m not taking your money for something that won’t perform properly.
How does Lancashire weather affect performance?
Right, here’s where Lancashire weather is actually brilliant for solar panels long-term.
All that rain? It’s cleaning your panels for free. Down in the southeast, people pay £50-£100 annually for professional panel cleaning. Up here, nature does it automatically. Keeps them running at maximum efficiency without you lifting a finger.
Temperature-wise, we’re in the sweet spot. Panels hate getting too hot – they lose about 0.5% efficiency for every degree above 25°C. Our moderate Lancashire temperatures mean panels operate near their rated efficiency year-round. Spain and Australia have more sun, but their panels run hotter and less efficiently. We get the Goldilocks zone – not too hot, not too cold.
Snow? Barely matters. When it does snow (maybe a few days each winter), it slides off within 24-48 hours. The panels generate a bit of heat which helps, plus the smooth glass surface means snow doesn’t stick around. You might lose a couple of days of generation – nothing worth worrying about.
Wind’s more relevant, especially coastal areas and the uplands. That’s why proper installation matters – we use fixings designed for Lancashire conditions. The systems are built to handle what you get round here. I’ve been back to check systems through some proper storms, and they’re solid as a rock.
Where Can I Get Solar Panels Installed in Lancashire?
Which installers serve different areas of Lancashire?
Lancashire has brilliant installer coverage. Preston and Lancaster have particularly competitive markets – multiple established MCS-certified companies, which keeps everyone honest on pricing and quality.
Major towns with great installer coverage:
- Preston
- Blackpool
- Lancaster
- Blackburn
- Burnley
- Chorley
- Ormskirk
Rural areas we cover:
- Ribble Valley (including Clitheroe, Langho)
- West Lancashire
- Forest of Bowland
- Fylde Coast
Rural properties sometimes get a modest travel charge (£100-£200) from Preston or Blackburn-based installers, but overall you’re still getting competitive pricing. The key is getting multiple quotes so you can compare.
Raw Solar works with MCS-certified installers across Lancashire who understand local roof types – all the slate and stone you get in period properties, the clay tiles on Victorian terraces, everything. They know the weather, they know the planning requirements for different councils, and they’ve got the experience to do the job properly.
What should I look for in a Lancashire solar installer?
Must-haves:
MCS certification – Absolutely essential. Without it, you can’t get SEG payments and your warranty’s worthless. Check their certificate, don’t just take their word for it.
Local experience – Someone who’s worked on Lancashire roofs understands what we deal with: slate, stone, Victorian terraces in mill towns, exposed coastal properties. That matters.
Proper insurance – Public liability and professional indemnity. If they’re dodgy about showing you certificates, walk away.
Good local reviews – Not just testimonials on their website. Check Google reviews, Trustpilot, ask for references from recent customers in your area.
Comprehensive warranties – Minimum 10 years on equipment, at least a year on installation work. Good installers often offer longer.
No pressure tactics – Anyone pushing you to decide today is more interested in their commission than your long-term satisfaction.
Red flags to watch for:
- Quotes significantly cheaper than everyone else (there’s a reason)
- Pushing you to decide immediately with “special offers”
- Vague about their MCS certification
- Won’t provide local customer references
- Can’t explain their recommendations in plain English
Many Lancashire installers offer free site surveys and no-obligation quotes. Take advantage – get 2-3 quotes, compare them properly, ask questions until you’re comfortable. This is a 25-year investment, not an impulse purchase.
How much do solar installations actually cost in Lancashire?
Standard 4kW systems cost £4,000-£6,500 across Lancashire after the 0% VAT relief. That’s everything included – panels, inverter, mounting kit, installation work, MCS certification, grid connection registration.
Here’s typical pricing:
| System Size |
Typical Home |
What It Costs |
Annual Generation |
| 3kW |
2-bed terrace |
£4,000-£5,000 |
2,550-2,850 kWh |
| 4kW |
3-bed semi |
£5,000-£6,500 |
3,400-3,800 kWh |
| 5kW |
4-bed detached |
£6,500-£8,500 |
4,250-4,750 kWh |
Premium high-efficiency panels (SunPower, LG) add 10-15% to costs but generate more per square metre if your roof space is limited. Complex roof configurations or difficult access can push costs toward the higher end.
Lancashire’s competitive market means you’re often getting better value than London or the southeast. Lower labour costs and strong competition between installers keeps pricing reasonable. Rural areas might see slight premiums for travel, but nothing dramatic.
Most installers offer flexible payment terms – outright purchase, finance packages, sometimes 0% interest over 12-24 months. Local credit unions do green loans at competitive rates too.
Do I Need Planning Permission in Lancashire?
When is planning permission required?
Most Lancashire solar installations don’t need planning permission – they count as permitted development. As long as panels don’t stick out more than 200mm from your roof and can be removed without damaging the house, you’re fine.
But you definitely need planning if:
- Your property’s in a conservation area (Lancaster, Clitheroe, Garstang old town centres, etc.)
- It’s a listed building (plenty of those across Lancashire)
- You’re in or near the Forest of Bowland Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
- Properties near Hadrian’s Wall World Heritage Site (northern Lancashire)
Conservation area and listed building applications go through your local district council:
- Lancaster City Council
- Preston City Council
- South Ribble Borough Council
- Chorley Council
- Ribble Valley Borough Council
- West Lancashire Borough Council
- Etc.
Application fee: £206 for householder applications Processing time: 8-12 weeks typically
Most applications get approved if panels are positioned sensibly – back of the roof rather than street-facing, that sort of thing. Your installer should know whether you need permission during the survey and can help with the application if needed.
How do I apply if planning permission is needed?
Applications go through your relevant district council’s planning portal. You’ll need:
- Detailed drawings showing panel positions
- Photos of your property from different angles
- Heritage statement (for listed buildings)
- Landscape impact assessment (for AONB properties)
Pre-application advice from the council costs about £50-£100 but can save months by identifying issues early. Most planning officers are supportive of solar if it’s done sympathetically.
Good installers familiar with Lancashire planning requirements handle this stuff regularly. They’ll photograph your property properly, produce drawings that meet council requirements, and basically do the heavy lifting. You just sign the forms.
Preston and Lancaster councils have particularly progressive renewable energy policies – they want to support solar adoption. Other Lancashire councils vary, but most are reasonable if the installation’s done properly.
How Does Lancashire’s Climate Affect Solar Panels?
What about all the rain and wind?
Rain is actually brilliant for solar panels. It naturally cleans them, keeping generation at maximum efficiency. In drier parts of the UK, dust and dirt build up reducing output by 5-10%. Up here, every rainfall washes that off. Free maintenance.
Lancashire’s moderate temperatures extend panel lifespan. Excessive heat degrades solar panels faster – southern Europe and Australia see panels losing efficiency quicker than up here. Our cooler climate means panels last their full 25-30+ year lifespan without heat stress.
Wind exposure varies across Lancashire:
- Coastal areas (Blackpool, Fleetwood, Morecambe) get significant wind
- Upland areas (Forest of Bowland, Pennine edges) face strong exposure
- Urban areas (Preston, Blackburn, Burnley) more sheltered
- Ribble Valley depends on specific location
Experienced installers understand Lancashire wind loading. We use appropriate fixings for your location – different requirements for an exposed farmhouse near Clitheroe versus a sheltered semi in Preston. The mounting systems are built to handle Lancashire weather throughout their 25+ year life.
Proper installation following Building Regulations ensures your system withstands whatever Lancashire throws at it. I’ve installed systems that have been through Storm Arwen, Storm Eunice, all the big ones – they’re still there, still generating.
Does seasonal variation kill the financial returns?
Seasonal swings are normal for UK solar – you get less in winter, loads in summer. But annual totals still make the investment worthwhile.
Lancashire seasonal pattern:
- Winter: 150-200 kWh monthly (December-January)
- Spring: 300-400 kWh monthly (March-April)
- Summer: 450-550 kWh monthly (May-July)
- Autumn: 300-400 kWh monthly (September-October)
Most Lancashire systems achieve 6-10 year payback periods even with seasonal variation. After that, you’re getting essentially free electricity for another 15-20 years.
Battery storage can balance seasonal variation by storing excess summer generation for winter use, but batteries add £3,000-£6,000 to costs and extend payback by 2-3 years. Most Lancashire homeowners find they don’t need batteries – the savings without them are solid enough.
What Financial Support Is Available in Lancashire?
Are there local grants or schemes?
Lancashire County Council occasionally runs renewable energy schemes:
- Green Homes Fund grants for energy efficiency (check current availability)
- Low-interest loans for solar installations
- Community energy partnership programmes
District council support varies:
- Preston City Council has progressive renewable energy policies
- Lancaster City Council supports solar adoption actively
- Some councils offer reduced planning fees for renewable applications
- Technical advice for complex installations
Community buying schemes:
- Various parish councils organise group purchases (10-20% savings)
- Lancashire Energy Company supports renewable development
- Housing associations occasionally run bulk buying schemes
The big one – Smart Export Guarantee (SEG): This is UK-wide, guaranteed by law. Energy suppliers pay you 3-7p per kWh for electricity you export:
- Octopus Energy: competitive rates, some time-of-use tariffs
- E.ON: standard SEG rates
- British Gas: reliable payments
SEG adds £150-£300 annually to your returns on top of direct bill savings. It continues for your system’s lifetime, providing income even after payback.
Check Lancashire County Council’s website for current grant availability – schemes come and go, but there’s usually something available. Community buying schemes are worth investigating too – bulk purchasing power plus peer support from neighbours who’ve already done it.
How does 0% VAT help Lancashire residents?
Since April 2022, you pay zero VAT on domestic solar installations. This permanently saves £400-£800 on typical Lancashire systems compared to the previous 5% VAT (and way more compared to standard 20% VAT before that).
On a £5,500 system, 0% VAT saves:
- £275 compared to 5% VAT
- £917 compared to 20% VAT
That money shortens payback directly. Instead of 8 years to pay for itself, you’re looking at 7 years. Then another 18-20 years of free electricity.
Applies to everything: panels, inverters, mounting systems, batteries if you add them, all installation labour. Your installer just doesn’t charge VAT – simple as that. No forms, no claiming it back.
Do solar panels increase property value in Lancashire?
Yes – properties with solar typically sell for 3-5% more across Lancashire, particularly in competitive areas like Preston, Lancaster, and Blackpool.
Why buyers value solar:
- Immediate reduction in energy bills
- Protection against future price rises
- Modern, well-maintained property signal
- Better EPC ratings (often C or B instead of D or E)
Estate agents actively highlight solar installations now. They know it helps properties sell faster and often achieve asking price or above. Energy-conscious buyers specifically search for solar-equipped homes.
Your EPC rating improves with solar installation. That matters increasingly – some mortgage lenders are fussy about poor EPC ratings on older properties. Solar bumps you up the scale without major renovation work.
Even if you move 5-10 years after installation, you typically recoup your investment through higher sale price plus all the savings you’ve enjoyed meanwhile. It’s a win either way – save money while you live there, get it back when you sell.
What About Different Lancashire Property Types?
Do Victorian terraces in mill towns work for solar?
Absolutely brilliant for solar, actually. Victorian terraces in places like Burnley, Accrington, Blackburn, and Nelson often have perfect south-facing roof sections. The slate roofs are ideal – durable, long-lasting, and we can install without damaging them using specialist slate hooks.
Advantages of Victorian terraces:
- Often south-facing (mill workers needed sunlight)
- Slate roofs perfect for solar
- Solid construction handles panel weight easily
- Usually unshaded (terraces often face open streets)
Considerations:
- Sometimes need consumer unit upgrades (older electrical systems)
- Party walls mean coordinating scaffold access
- Conservation areas require planning permission in town centres
Many Lancashire mill towns have brilliant potential for widespread solar adoption. The terraced streets are perfect for it – I’ve done entire streets where neighbours see each other’s systems and decide to get their own.
What about Lancashire’s industrial heritage buildings?
Converted mills and warehouses across Lancashire are excellent for solar – massive roof areas, high electricity consumption, solid construction. These properties often achieve brilliant returns.
Perfect for:
- Residential conversions in Burnley, Preston, Lancaster
- Commercial spaces still operating
- Mixed-use developments
- Warehouse conversions
Requirements:
- Listed building consent often needed (but usually granted)
- Structural engineer assessment for very old buildings
- Heritage-sensitive positioning (back of roof, less visible sections)
Heritage considerations rarely prevent solar installation – they just dictate where panels go. Planning officers understand the environmental benefits and are usually supportive if it’s done sensitively.
I’ve installed systems on converted mills that generate £1,500+ annually due to large roof areas and high usage. They’re some of the best solar projects around.
Do new builds in Lancashire come solar-ready?
Modern developments across Lancashire increasingly include solar-ready infrastructure:
- Optimal roof orientations (if developers plan properly)
- Modern electrical systems sized appropriately
- Strengthened roof structures
- Sometimes cable routing already in place
Areas with significant new development:
- Preston suburbs
- South Ribble
- Lancaster periphery
- Chorley and Leyland
- Coastal developments around Fleetwood
Some developers offer solar packages during construction. Sometimes that’s good value, sometimes they’re charging premium prices because you’re a captive audience. Often better to buy the property then get independent quotes for solar afterwards – more control, better equipment choice, competitive pricing.
New build warranties remain valid with professional solar installation as long as installers follow Building Regulations. All MCS-certified installers do this as standard.
How Reliable Is Grid Connection in Lancashire?
How does grid connection work?
Lancashire solar connects through Electricity North West’s distribution network. They’re the DNO (Distribution Network Operator) for the whole region.
For most residential systems:
- Under 16A (typical 3-4kW systems): G98 notification – installer handles it, straightforward
- Over 16A (larger systems): G99 application – takes 4-6 weeks, more paperwork
Lancashire’s grid infrastructure generally handles residential solar well. Occasionally rural areas face connection constraints, but it’s rare. Your installer checks this during the survey and sorts the paperwork.
Grid connection registration is included in your installation cost. You don’t pay separately for it. The installer submits everything, ensures it’s approved, and you start generating.
How reliable is the Lancashire electricity grid?
Pretty reliable, honestly. Electricity North West maintains the network well. Power cuts are infrequent – typically under 90 minutes total per year on average.
Grid reliability varies by area:
- Urban areas (Preston, Blackpool, Burnley): Very reliable
- Rural areas: Occasional longer outages during storms
- Coastal areas: Good infrastructure, storm-resilient
Solar installations with battery storage can provide backup power during outages. That’s particularly valuable for rural Lancashire properties where restoration times might be longer. Batteries add cost, but the peace of mind can be worth it.
Without batteries, your solar system shuts down during power cuts for safety reasons – stops electricity feeding back into lines that engineers think are dead. It’s a required safety feature, not a fault.
What Maintenance Do Lancashire Solar Panels Need?
How much ongoing maintenance is required?
Barely any – that’s one of the brilliant things about solar panels.
What you need to do:
- Quick visual check every few months (5 minutes from the ground)
- Watch for obvious damage, excessive bird mess, or debris
- Check the monitoring app occasionally (shows if generation’s dropped)
What Lancashire weather does for you:
- Rain cleans panels naturally (saves £50-£100 annually on cleaning)
- Moderate temperatures prevent degradation
- Wind clears light debris
Professional maintenance:
- Every 3-5 years get a proper inspection (£100-£200)
- Includes electrical testing, connection checks, inverter assessment
- Many installers offer annual maintenance packages if you prefer
Modern monitoring systems alert you to problems through smartphone apps. You see daily generation compared to expected output. If there’s a significant drop, something needs checking – usually simple stuff like a tree branch shading panels or bird mess building up.
I’ve been back to systems I installed 10+ years ago for routine checks. With minimal maintenance, they’re still generating at near-original capacity. Lancashire’s climate is actually perfect for long-term panel performance.
How long do panels and equipment last?
Solar panels: 25-30+ years easily in Lancashire conditions
Lancashire’s moderate temperatures prevent heat stress that degrades panels in hotter climates. Quality panels from proper manufacturers maintain 80%+ output after 25 years. Cheaper panels might drop to 70-75%.
Manufacturer warranties guarantee this – typically 25 years at 80-90% performance. If panels underperform, you’ve got recourse.
Inverters: 10-15 years typically, then need replacement
Budget £800-£1,500 for inverter replacement depending on system size. It’s predictable – you know it’s coming, you can plan for it. Some newer microinverters last 20+ years, which is changing the maintenance picture.
Mounting systems and fixings: Full 25-30 year lifespan
We use marine-grade stainless steel fixings because I’m not having stuff rust out in Lancashire’s damp climate. Quality installations last the distance without issues.
Your warranties protect you:
- 25-year panel performance warranty
- 10-year equipment product warranty
- Minimum 1 year installation workmanship (many offer longer)
- MCS protection scheme backing
How Do I Get Started with Solar in Lancashire?
What’s the first step?
Get 2-3 quotes from proper MCS-certified installers in your area. Free surveys, no obligation, no pressure. That’s how it should work.
The survey process (about 1-2 hours):
- Installer checks your roof condition, orientation, shading
- Reviews your electricity consumption patterns
- Explains equipment options in plain English
- Discusses planning requirements if applicable
- Provides personalised generation and savings projections
- Gives you a written quote with everything itemised
Good installers never pressure you to decide on the spot. Anyone saying “this price expires today” or “I need an answer now” – show them the door. Solar is a 25-year investment. Take your time, compare properly, ask questions.
What to watch for during surveys:
- Do they actually get on your roof or just eyeball it?
- Do they ask about your electricity use patterns?
- Can they explain things without technical jargon?
- Do they listen to your concerns?
- Are they professional and on time?
These details tell you a lot about who you’re dealing with.
How do I choose between installers?
Compare these factors, not just price:
MCS certification – Absolutely essential. No excuses, no exceptions.
Local experience – Someone who’s worked across Lancashire understands regional conditions, councils, roof types.
Equipment quality – What panels and inverter are they recommending? Why those specific brands?
Warranty terms – 10 years minimum on equipment, proper installation warranty.
Customer reviews – Real reviews from real Lancashire customers, not just website testimonials.
Transparent quotes – Everything itemised clearly, no vague “supply and fit” nonsense.
Questions to ask every installer:
- “How many Lancashire installations did you complete last year?”
- “Can you give me three recent customer references nearby?”
- “What happens if generation is lower than projected?”
- “Who handles warranty claims – you or manufacturers directly?”
- “What’s included in your price and what’s extra?”
Good installers answer these confidently and honestly. Dodgy ones get vague or pushy.
Raw Solar pre-vets MCS-certified installers across Lancashire, saving you the hassle of sorting professionals from cowboys. But even then, get multiple quotes so you can compare and feel confident.
What if I’m still not sure solar is right for me?
Fair enough – it’s a big decision. Here’s how to think about it:
Solar makes sense if:
- You plan to stay in your home at least 7-10 years (payback period)
- Your roof faces south, east, or west with minimal shading
- Your electricity bills are £60+ monthly
- You’re tired of energy prices constantly rising
- You want some control over your energy costs
Solar might not suit if:
- You’re planning to move within 2-3 years
- Your roof only faces north
- Significant shading from trees or buildings
- Your property has serious roof condition issues
- You can’t afford the upfront cost (even with finance)
Still uncertain?
Get a free survey anyway. You’ll get personalised numbers for your specific property – actual generation projections, real savings estimates, proper payback calculations. Then you can make an informed decision based on facts rather than guesswork.
Most people are surprised how good the numbers look when they see their specific property analysis. The generic information doesn’t capture what your particular roof can achieve.
Ready to stop paying the energy companies a fortune every month? Lancashire’s got brilliant solar potential despite the weather myths. Get free surveys from proper MCS-certified installers who understand local conditions. No sales pressure, no dodgy tactics – just honest advice about whether solar works for your specific home.