The analysis of government data by solar panel experts comes amid speculation that 2024 is expected to show record-breaking growth in the sector
One region dominated the list for the least amount of solar panels installed on homes(Image credit: Independent Advisor)
Solar panel experts have revealed that solar panel installations are set to reach record figures in 2024 and also revealed which areas in the UK have the most and least installations.
Data from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS), the regulator for low-carbon products, was analysed by Homebuilding & Renovating's renewables expert David Hilton and Independent Adviser found that around 7% of UK households now have solar panels but some areas have more than double that amount.
It was also revealed why installations were increasing and why some areas struggle with solar panel installations and others excel.
Areas with the most solar panel installations
MCS data In April shows there were 15,563 solar panel installations in the UK, more than the previous three months combined.
The data also provided up to date information on which areas had the most solar panel installations with Stirling having the highest percentage of installations with 17.4%.
However, Aberdeenshire had the highest total amount of installations with 16,678 homes having the energy-efficient measure installed, whilst five of the top 10 were in Wales and Scotland.
Aberdeenshire was the area with the most amount of solar panel installations in the UK(Image credit: Independent Advisor)
London dominates areas with the least amount of solar panels
On the other hand one area stood out for having the lowest amount of solar panel installations with London taking every spot in the bottom 10.
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Kensington and Chelsea was found to be the area with the lowest percentage of houses with solar panels with just 0.5% having them, whilst the City of London had the lowest total number with just 55 installations.
The reason for London being so low was explained by the cost of installing solar panels being significantly higher in urban areas such as London and the South East "due to higher labour rates and operational expenses in these regions".
Whereas, regions such as the North East and Wales have lower costs and lower overall living expenses, explaining why they are more likely to have more installations.
The City of London was shown to have just 55 solar panels installed on houses(Image credit: Independent Advisor)
Why are solar panel installations going up?
Independent Adviser experts claim 2024 will be a record year for installations, which is indicated by April's figures.
Katharine Allison, the Independent's Energy Saving Expert, explained this was due to many factors such as "advancements in technology" as "solar panels have greatly improved efficiency and durability".
She added: "As a result, it’s an excellent time to invest in solar panels to enjoy both immediate and long-term financial benefits."
The study also found many homeowners are taking advantage of the government's ECO4 scheme that allows certain homeowners to save cost on solar panels, or even get them for free.
Katharine, Independent Advisor's energy-saving expert, is a sustainability advocate specialising in solar panels, double glazing, and renewable energy technologies. With over 10 years of experience, she has collaborated with top UK companies and publications like the Federation of Master Builders, Architectural Digest, and Denon Construction, guiding readers towards eco-friendly solutions and the latest sustainability trends.
David Hilton
David, with over 35 years of experience in renewables and ventilation installation, is a respected contributor to Homebuilding and Renovating magazine. He is a member of the Gas Safe Register and holds a Master's degree in Sustainable Architecture. His expertise includes building fabrics, heat recovery ventilation, renewables, and conventional heating systems. David is also a prominent speaker at the Homebuilding & Renovating Show.
News Editor Joseph has previously written for Today’s Media and Chambers & Partners, focusing on news for conveyancers and industry professionals. Joseph has just started his own self build project, building his own home on his family’s farm with planning permission for a timber frame, three-bedroom house in a one-acre field. The foundation work has already begun and he hopes to have the home built in the next year. Prior to this he renovated his family's home as well as doing several DIY projects, including installing a shower, building sheds, and livestock fences and shelters for the farm’s animals. Outside of homebuilding, Joseph loves rugby and has written for Rugby World, the world’s largest rugby magazine.
