Most UK roofs can take solar panels. Whether yours should comes down to five things: which way it faces, its pitch, shading, its condition and the space on it. Here is how we look at each one, and what you can check for yourself before you speak to anyone.
Which way it faces
South-facing roofs generate the most over a year, but they are not the only good option. East and west roofs work well, and suit homes that use more power in the morning or the evening. A home with both can split the panels across the two and spread generation through the day. North is the hardest case, but a shallow north-facing roof can still make sense, especially with a battery. Our guide to north-facing roofs covers it in detail.
Pitch
Most pitched roofs in the UK sit at an angle that suits solar. A steeper or shallower roof changes how much the panels make through the seasons, so we use your actual pitch in your proposal rather than assuming an ideal one. Flat roofs can take panels too, on frames that tilt them towards the sun.
Shading
Shade can matter more than direction. Chimneys, dormers, trees and neighbouring buildings can all cast shadows across part of a roof at different times of day and year. We check for shading when we design your system and lay the panels out around it. Modern panels also cope with partial shade better than older ones did; the AIKO panels we fit are designed for it.
Condition and age
Panels stay on a roof for decades, so the roof underneath needs to be sound. If your tiles or slates are near the end of their life, it is usually better to repair or replace them before the panels go on than to take the panels off again later. If you are planning a new roof anyway, that is a good moment to consider in-roof panels, which sit in place of the tiles.
Space
The usable area decides how many panels fit, once roof windows, vents and the edges of the roof are allowed for. A small roof is not ruled out: higher-output panels make more of limited space, and a battery means more of what you generate is used at home rather than exported.
Planning permission
Most homes do not need planning permission for solar panels on the roof, because they usually count as permitted development. Listed buildings, and some homes in conservation areas, are different and may need consent first; your local council can confirm. If either applies to you, tell us early and we will factor it in.
If it is not suitable
Sometimes the honest answer is no: a roof in heavy shade, or one too small to justify the scaffolding. If that is the case we will tell you, and show you the alternative. A battery on its own can still cut your bills on a smart tariff, with no panels at all.
Ready to find out? Tell us about your home and we will tell you what your roof can do.
This guide is general information, not advice for your specific property. Every Powergy proposal is modelled on your actual roof, usage and tariff.