Can You Put Solar Panels On Both Sides Of a Roof?

Yes, you put solar panels on both sides of a roof. In many cases, it's not only feasible but can also boost your home's energy production. For UK homeowners and landlords exploring renewable energy options, installing solar photovoltaic systems on multiple roof faces can maximise sunlight capture, reduce energy bills, and support sustainability goals. 

This guide delves into the practicalities, advantages, and key considerations to help you decide if a dual-side setup suits your property.

Is It Possible to Install Solar Panels on Both Sides of Your Roof?

Yes, installing solar panels on both sides of a roof is entirely possible and increasingly common in the UK, particularly for properties with east-west oriented roofs. This approach, often called a split-array or dual-aspect installation, allows panels to capture sunlight at different times of the day: morning rays on one side and afternoon light on the other.

According to the Energy Saving Trust, solar panels work best on sloping roofs angled towards the sun, but they can be adapted to various orientations without issue, provided the roof structure supports the weight. 

In fact, for east-west roofs, placing panels on both sides can optimise energy generation throughout the day, potentially producing up to 85-90% of the output from an equivalent south-facing system. This is especially useful for homeowners aiming to self-consume more of their generated electricity, reducing reliance on the grid.

For commercial buildings or larger properties, dual-side setups can scale up renewable energy production, aligning with UK goals to increase solar capacity. As of 2025, the UK has over 15 GW of installed solar PV, with residential systems contributing significantly to this growth, according to government data.

Key Installation Requirements

To ensure a successful dual-side installation, your roof must meet basic criteria:

• Structural Integrity: Most UK roofs can handle the added weight of 15-20 kg per square metre from panels.
  
• Space Availability: Each side needs sufficient unshaded area; a typical 4kW system requires about 20-25 square metres total.
  
• Inverter Compatibility: A single inverter can handle panels from both sides if they're in similar conditions, but micro-inverters or optimisers may be needed for varying orientations to prevent efficiency losses.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Installing a Dual-Sided Solar System?

A dual-sided solar system can enhance energy efficiency and financial returns, but it also comes with considerations. Below are the key pros and cons to help you weigh your options:

Single-side vs. Dual-side Solar Panel Installation

The table below compares single-side (south-facing) and dual-side (east–west) installations under typical UK conditions, so you can see which layout might suit your home’s energy needs best.

Data adapted from Energy Saving Trust estimates.

What Factors Should You Consider for Dual-Side Solar Panel Installation?

Before proceeding, evaluate your roof's suitability and potential challenges. Here are the key factors to consider:

• Roof Orientation: Roof orientation plays a pivotal role, south-facing is optimal, but east-west dual setups are viable alternatives for many UK properties, offering balanced energy production throughout the day.
  
• Shading Issues: Shading is a critical factor; even partial obstruction from trees or chimneys can reduce output by 20-30%. Professional surveys can identify issues early.
  
• Maintenance Requirements: Panels on both sides may require more frequent cleaning, especially if one face is prone to bird droppings or moss. However, modern panels can last up to 25-30 years with minimal upkeep.
  
• Landlord Considerations: For landlords, ensure the installation complies with tenancy agreements and enhances rental appeal without disrupting occupants, potentially increasing property desirability.

What Are the Costs of Much Do Dual-Sided Solar Systems?

According to the Energy Saving Trust, a 4kW system, one of the most common for UK homes, ranges from £6,000 to £8,000, with dual-side configurations pushing costs towards the higher end or slightly beyond, potentially £6,600-£9,600.

A dual-side solar setup typically costs 10-20% more than a single-side system due to additional wiring, mounting hardware, and potential need for advanced inverters like micro-inverters or power optimisers. 

Larger systems for commercial properties or expansive homes may cost significantly more, but economies of scale can reduce per-kW costs.

Pricing Table for Dual-Side Solar Systems in the UK

• Costs include installation and additional dual-side components. Savings assume 24p/kWh electricity rates and SEG payments of 10-15p/kWh. Output varies based on roof orientation and location. Data sourced from Energy Saving Trust and UK Government solar cost statistics.
  
  Always consult with suppliers for precise quotes, as costs vary based on roof complexity, panel type (e.g., monofacial vs. bifacial), and location-specific factors like labour rates.
  
• The costs listed above do not include a solar battery. Adding battery storage can significantly increase the upfront investment but also maximise self-consumption of your solar energy. In the UK, the average cost of a home solar battery ranges from £3,000 to £6,000, depending on storage capacity (typically 4–10 kWh) and brand.

Use the Eco Answers Solar Panel Calculator to estimate how many solar panels your property needs.

How Much Can You Save with a Dual-Sided Solar System?

UK homeowners can expect to save £300-£1,200 annually on energy bills with a dual-sided solar system, depending on system size, with additional earnings of £100-£500 per year from the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). 

Businesses can save £4,000-£12,000 annually due to higher energy demands.

In 2025, with energy prices averaging 24p/kWh and SEG tariffs up to 15p/kWh, solar panel systems significantly reduce electricity costs while generating income from excess power exported to the grid.

To illustrate, here's a table of estimated savings for dual-sided systems across different UK property types, adjusted for 85-90% efficiency of south-facing equivalents, based on 2025 data:

Savings Table for Dual-Sided Solar Systems by Property Type

Factors Influencing Savings

Savings vary based on several factors:

• Location: Southern UK regions (e.g., London, South East) receive more sunlight, boosting output by 10-15% compared to northern areas like Scotland.
  
• Energy Consumption: Households using 50-70% of generated power (self-consumption) see optimal savings. Adding a battery can increase this to 70-80%, storing energy for evening use, potentially saving an extra £100-£200 annually.
  
• System Size: Larger systems (e.g., 6-10 kW) yield higher savings but require more roof space and investment, ideal for bigger homes or commercial properties.
  
• Usage Patterns: Dual-sided setups align with morning and evening peaks for households or daytime usage for businesses, maximising self-consumption.

Return on Investment (ROI) and Payback Period

The ROI for residential dual-sided systems typically ranges from 8-12% annually post-payback, calculated as (annual savings / initial cost) x 100, based on a 25-30 year lifespan.

For a 4kW system costing £6,600-£9,600, annual savings of £650-£900 yield an ROI of approximately 9-10%. Payback periods for homes range from 8-12 years, slightly longer than south-facing systems due to lower output but shortened by rising energy costs and incentives like 0% VAT on installations, as confirmed by HMRC for 2025.

For commercial properties, ROI can be significantly higher, reaching 16-45%, with payback periods as low as 3-5 years due to higher energy consumption, larger system sizes, and tax reliefs like Enhanced Capital Allowances.

For example, a 20kW system costing £25,000-£35,000 could save £4,000-£6,000 annually, achieving payback in 4-7 years.

Lifetime Savings and Environmental Impact

Over a 25-year lifespan, homeowners can expect lifetime savings of £7,500-£27,500, depending on system size, while businesses can save £100,000-£300,000 for larger installations.

Additionally, a 4kW system reduces carbon emissions by approximately 1 tonne per year, supporting the UK’s net-zero goals.<

For landlords, these systems enhance property value by 4-5% and attract eco-conscious tenants, boosting rental appeal.

To maximise savings, consider pairing your system with a battery or smart energy management to increase self-consumption. For tailored quotes reflecting your property’s potential, use Eco Answers’ Quote-Comparison Tool to connect with trusted suppliers.

What Are the Best Solar Panels for Dual-Sided Systems?

Below, we look at the best panel types for dual-sided setups in the UK, comparing their strengths, ideal applications, and price ranges so you can make an informed choice for your property.

Bifacial Solar Panels

Bifacial panels, such as those from Longi or Trina Solar, are particularly suited for dual-sided installations due to their dual-light absorption capability. In east-west setups, they can produce two daily power peaks, morning and afternoon, enhancing overall yield by 5-30%, especially on reflective roofs.

They excel in vertical or tilted configurations, making them versatile for UK properties with limited south-facing space. 

Monocrystalline Solar Panels

High-efficiency monocrystalline panels, like AIKO NEOSTAR (25.2% efficiency) or SunPower Maxeon, are top choices for dual-sided systems as they maintain strong performance in 

These N-type or PERC variants handle low-light conditions well, crucial for east-west roofs where sunlight is spread out. They offer long warranties and durability, ideal for UK weather..

Half-Cut or PERC Solar Panels

PERC (Passivated Emitter Rear Cell) panels, such as DMEGC Infinity or Project Solar Evolution, enhance light absorption and reduce losses, making them effective for dual-sided setups with varying sun exposure.

Half-cut designs minimise shading impacts, boosting output by 2-5% in partial shade. They're a balanced option for homeowners seeking reliability without bifacial premiums. 

Cost Table of Best Suited Solar Panel Types for Dual-Sided Installations

Costs based on 2025 UK averages, including dual-side adjustments; actual prices vary by supplier.

High-efficiency panels that perform well in varied lighting conditions are ideal, as they maximise output during morning and afternoon peaks. In the UK, where sunlight averages 3-4 peak hours daily, prioritising panels with excellent low-light performance and durability against weather elements ensures long-term viability.

Factors like module efficiency (above 20%), temperature coefficients, and warranty (25-30 years) play key roles. Bifacial panels stand out for their ability to capture reflected light, potentially increasing yield by up to 30% in optimal conditions, though roof albedo affects this.

Popular brands in 2025 include DMEGC, AIKO, and SunPower, known for high performance in non-optimal orientations.

Use Eco Answers' Quote-Comparison Tool for personalised pricing.

Do You Need Planning Permission for Solar Panels on Both Roof Sides?

In most UK cases, no planning permission is required for solar panels on both sides, as they fall under permitted development rights. Key conditions include: panels must not protrude more than 200mm from the roof plane, not exceed the highest roof point (excluding chimney), and be removable without damage.

According to the UK Government, these rules apply to domestic and some commercial properties, but listed buildings or conservation areas may need approval. Always check with your local council.

Are There Grants for Installing Solar Panels on Both Sides of Roof?

Several UK grants and incentives can reduce the cost of installing solar panels. These schemes apply to residential and commercial properties, with specific eligibility criteria and savings potential. While no grants explicitly target dual-sided installations, the following UK-wide and regional programs support solar PV systems, including those on multiple roof faces, as of August 2025.

0% VAT on Solar Panels and Batteries

Savings: Up to £2,850 on a 4kW dual-sided system with battery.

Valid until March 31, 2027, the scheme eliminates VAT on solar panels, batteries, and related energy-saving materials for residential installations. It applies automatically to dual-sided setups, reducing costs by approximately 5% compared to the previous 5% VAT rate. 

For a 4kW system costing £6,600-£9,600, this saves £330-£480, with higher savings for larger systems or those including batteries. No separate application is needed; certified installers apply the 0% rate on invoices. 

Eligibility: All UK homeowners and landlords installing solar panels in residential properties, regardless of roof orientation.

Energy Company Obligation (ECO4) Scheme

Savings: Up to 100% of installation costs for eligible households.

Running until March 31, 2026, the ECO4 scheme provides free or heavily subsidised solar installations, including dual-sided setups, for low-income households. It targets homes with electric heating and low energy efficiency (EPC ratings D-G), potentially covering £6,600-£9,600 for a 4kW system. 

Eligibility: Households earning under £31,000 annually, receiving benefits (e.g., Universal Credit, Pension Credit), or identified as fuel-poor via local authority ECO4 Flex. 

Warm Homes Plan

Savings: Partial funding, up to £30,000 per home, for solar installations.

Available from April 2025 to 2028, the Warm Homes Plan supports low-income households, renters, and social housing tenants with energy upgrades, including dual-sided solar systems. It’s particularly suited for electrically heated homes, potentially covering a significant portion of a £6,600-£9,600 system. 

Eligibility: Social housing tenants, renters, or households earning under £31,000 with low EPC ratings. 

Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan

Savings: Up to £7,500 in grants or loans for solar installations in Scotland.

Available until March 2026, the Home Energy Scotland Grant and Loan scheme offers interest-free loans for solar PV and thermal systems, applicable to dual-sided setups. A 4kW system could receive up to £6,000 in funding, reducing costs to £600-£3,600. 

Eligibility: Scottish homeowners or landlords with approved installers. 

Warm Homes Nest Scheme

Savings: Up to 100% of installation costs for eligible Welsh households.

The Welsh Warm Homes Nest scheme provides free solar panels, including dual-sided systems, for energy-inefficient homes. It can cover £6,600-£9,600 for a 4kW system, ideal for low-income households. 

Eligibility: Welsh households with low income, receiving benefits, or living in hard-to-heat homes. 

FAQs

How do weather conditions affect solar panels on both roof sides?

UK weather, including frequent cloud cover, impacts output equally on both sides, but dual setups provide resilience by spreading generation across the day. Panels are built to withstand hail and winds up to 100mph, ensuring reliability.

What role do inverters play in dual-side solar systems?

Inverters convert DC to AC power; for dual sides, string inverters work if orientations are similar, but MPPT trackers allow independent optimisation, improving efficiency by 5-10% in varied conditions.

How does dual-side installation impact home insurance?

Most UK insurers cover solar panels as standard, but notify them of the addition; premiums may rise slightly (1-2%), but savings often offset this.

Can commercial properties benefit more from both-side roof solar?

Yes, businesses with high daytime usage can achieve greater self-consumption, reducing peak tariffs. Tax relief like Enhanced Capital Allowances may apply for larger installations.

Our Verdict

Installing solar panels on both sides of a roof presents a smart, efficient way to harness renewable energy, offering consistent output, substantial savings, and environmental benefits tailored to UK properties. 

By considering orientation, costs, and regulations, homeowners and landlords can confidently pursue this option to future-proof their energy needs. Ready to explore? Request a free personalised quote from Eco Answers today.