Connect with MCS-certified solar panel installers in Manchester
Find trusted solar panel installers in Manchester. Share your needs and get up to four tailored offers from vetted local specialists.
- Complete the form with your contact details and solar requirements.
- We match you with up to four experienced installers in the Greater Manchester area.
- They will call or email you to discuss your property, electricity usage, and installation preferences.
After this short consultation, the installers prepare personalised quotes for a solar panel system that suits your home and budget. Because they know they are competing for your business, they are motivated to offer competitive pricing and high-quality service.
Our service is completely free and non-binding; you are under no obligation to accept any of the offers you receive.
You can start the process in just a couple of minutes by completing the form with your contact details and solar requirements.
Why Manchester is ideal for solar panels

Strong solar potential
Manchester is known for its cloud cover, but solar technology remains highly effective. According to the Global Solar Atlas, the specific photovoltaic power output for Manchester is approximately 916.3 kWh/kWp, allowing households to achieve meaningful energy savings.
Reliable performance in cloudy weather
Although Manchester experiences frequent overcast conditions, modern solar panels operate efficiently using daylight rather than direct sunlight.
The city receives a diffuse horizontal irradiation level of 559.4 kWh/m², which represents the scattered sunlight that still reaches the ground on cloudy days. This ensures consistent electricity generation throughout the year.
High electricity costs
With UK electricity prices remaining elevated, producing your own renewable energy is one of the most reliable ways to reduce long-term energy costs. A well-designed system can offset a significant share of your household consumption.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
All installers we work with are fully MCS-certified, so your system will meet SEG requirements.
Homeowners can earn payments for surplus electricity fed back into the National Grid through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme. To be eligible, your installation must be commissioned by an installer certified by the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) or an equivalent body such as Flexi-Orb.
Government incentives
Solar panels benefit from 0% VAT on installation, helping lower upfront costs. This tax relief runs until March 2027, making now a good time to take advantage of the saving.
Some Greater Manchester councils also support renewable energy adoption through sustainability programmes and community energy schemes.
Solar adoption in Manchester
Manchester is rapidly becoming a regional hub for residential renewable energy. More households are recognising the long-term value of generating their own power, even in a northern climate.
Thousands of Manchester homes now use solar
According to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, thousands of domestic solar installations operate across the city. For example, Manchester Withington records 2,111 installations, while Manchester Central accounts for 1,278 installations as of September 2025. Adoption continues to accelerate each year.
Typical domestic solar set-up in Manchester
For a standard semi-detached home, a typical solar installation ranges from 4 kW to 6 kW. Most homeowners can expect costs of £6,000 to £10,000, depending on roof complexity, panel type, and system design.
Ready to lower your energy bills and generate clean electricity at home? Take two minutes to complete our form, and we’ll connect you with trusted, local solar installers in Manchester.
Manchester solar panel FAQs
Do solar panels work in UK weather?
Yes. Modern PV (photovoltaic) technology works using daylight rather than heat or direct sunshine. This means panels continue generating electricity even on the cloudy days frequent in Greater Manchester.
How much does a solar panel system cost?
Most residential solar panel systems cost between £6,000 and £10,000.
The final price depends on system size and roof complexity. Multiple roof angles, slate tiles, or difficult access may increase installation costs.
How long do solar panels last?
High-quality solar panels typically come with 25-year performance warranties. In practice, many systems last 30 years or more with minimal maintenance, offering decades of reliable energy production.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
In most cases, installing solar panels on a residential roof in Manchester falls under Permitted Development, meaning no planning permission is required.
However, listed buildings and properties within conservation areas may have additional requirements. A certified installer will advise you based on your home’s location.
About Solarenergy.co.uk
We help homeowners across the UK access reliable solar panel solutions. As part of Nettbureau, a European comparison platform with more than a decade of experience, we connect you for free with vetted, MCS-certified installers who can provide tailored offers for your home.
Skip the time-consuming research. We match you with local professionals so you can compare clear quotes and choose the system that best suits your property and budget.
