Solar Panels on Conservatory Roof - Maximise Space

Energy prices in the UK continue to rise, and with climate targets growing stricter, smart energy investments have never been more important. One area of untapped potential? Your conservatory roof.

Installing solar panels on a conservatory roof is an innovative way to transform underutilised space into a renewable energy asset. Whether you're a homeowner looking to slash energy bills, a landlord aiming to boost EPC ratings, or a business seeking sustainability points, this upgrade can deliver serious benefits.

This guide explores the ins and outs of adding solar panels to conservatories—covering costs, regulations, pros and cons, and expert tips to help you decide if it’s right for your property.

What Are the Benefits of Installing Solar Panels on a Conservatory Roof?

Solar panels on conservatory roofs offer a unique way to make use of a space that’s often overlooked when it comes to energy efficiency. Unlike traditional roof installations, conservatories present new opportunities for light capture and visual integration, particularly when using modern panel technologies.

But the benefits go well beyond just aesthetics. Depending on your property type and energy usage, the returns can be significant in both financial and environmental terms.

How Can Homeowners Save Money with This Installation?

Solar panels on a conservatory roof allow UK homeowners to generate electricity for their home while preserving roof space on the main structure.

Lower Electricity Bills

Solar panels generate free electricity from sunlight. Over 20 years, UK homeowners can save £6,000–£15,000, depending on system size and usage patterns.

Maximise Unused Space

Conservatories are often underutilised during winter. Installing solar turns this seasonal room into a 24/7 energy asset.

Increase Home Value

A solar-powered conservatory enhances appeal for eco-conscious buyers and adds an average of £1,800–£3,500 to home resale value.

Energy Independence

Reduce reliance on the National Grid, especially during peak hours or blackouts.

What Advantages Do Landlords Gain from Conservatory Solar Panels?

The main benefits of conservatory solar panels for landlords are attracting tenants for the property, boosting energy efficiency and increasing the value of the property.

EPC Compliance and Ratings

Upgrading a conservatory with solar panels can improve a property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating—essential since all rental properties must meet minimum EPC standards (E rating or above).

Attract Energy-Conscious Tenants

Today’s renters value green credentials. Solar energy systems are a tenant-friendly feature that can support higher rental yields.

Lower Tenant Bills

By cutting electricity costs, landlords may also increase retention rates, as lower utility bills improve tenant satisfaction.

Are There Business Benefits for Commercial Properties?

Yes, especially for small businesses with office extensions or garden rooms:

Meet Corporate Sustainability Goals

Solar conservatories contribute to ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) targets and bolster brand credibility.

Reduce Operational Costs

Energy-intensive businesses can offset bills with solar production. Some SMEs report savings of £1,000–£4,000 per year.

Eligible for Capital Allowances

Commercial solar may qualify for the Annual Investment Allowance (AIA) and Super Deduction schemes, reducing tax bills.

Can You Install Solar Panels on a Conservatory Roof Legally in the UK?

Before embarking on a solar conservatory project, it's crucial to understand the legal framework. The UK has progressive renewable energy regulations, but installing panels on non-standard structures like conservatories introduces some specific considerations.

These include planning rules, building regulations, and property classification. Here's what you need to know to stay compliant and avoid costly oversights.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

In most cases, solar panels are considered Permitted Development—even on conservatories. However:

• The installation must not protrude more than 200mm from the surface.
• Listed buildings and conservation areas may require planning permission.
• Panels must not significantly alter the conservatory’s structure.

Always check with your local council to avoid compliance issues.

Are There Building Regulations?

Yes. Installations must comply with Part L (conservation of fuel and power) and Part A (structural safety). Panels should be safely mounted to avoid:

• Overloading lightweight conservatory roofs.
• Damaging glass or polycarbonate panels.

Tip: Use lightweight solar PV panels or solar film systems for structural compatibility.

What Types of Solar Panels Work Best for Conservatory Roofs?

Not all solar panels are created equal, especially when it comes to conservatories. These structures often have different load-bearing capacities, light requirements, and architectural aesthetics.

Choosing the right panel type depends on your goals: whether it's maximum energy generation, visual appeal, or structural compatibility. Let’s explore the most suitable options on the market today.

Glass-on-Glass or Frameless Solar Panels

These are semi-transparent and ideal for aesthetics and daylight use in conservatories.

Solar Film Panels

Flexible and ultra-lightweight, they adhere to glass or polycarbonate roofs without significant reinforcement.

Standard Crystalline Silicon Panels

More efficient but heavier—may require structural reinforcements or mounting to an adjoining roof frame.

How Much Do Conservatory Solar Panels Cost in the UK?

System Type Estimated Cost (Installed) Typical Output (kWh/year)

Solar Film (1.5kW) £2,500–£3,500 ~1,300

Frameless Panels (2–3kW) £3,500–£6,000 ~2,500

Structural Mount (4kW) £6,000–£8,500 ~3,500+

Payback Period

Depending on system size, payback is typically 7–12 years, with systems lasting 25–30 years.

Can You Earn Money with Solar Panels on a Conservatory Roof?

Beyond reducing your own energy bills, solar panels can actually generate income through grid export schemes. Thanks to the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), UK homeowners, landlords, and even small businesses can benefit from selling unused electricity back to the grid.

But how does this work for a conservatory-based system? Let’s break down how you can turn your conservatory into a source of passive income.

What Is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?

The Smart Export Guarantee allows UK property owners to sell unused solar electricity back to the grid.

• SEG is backed by Ofgem and requires MCS certification.
• Tariffs vary by supplier, typically £0.04–£0.15 per kWh exported.

For example, exporting 2,000 kWh/year at £0.10 earns £200 annually.

What Are the Challenges or Limitations?

The typical disadvantages of solar panels on conservatories are potential architectural problems with older buildings and issues with glare.

Structural Constraints

Older conservatories may not support the weight of standard panels. Professional assessment is crucial.

Seasonal Efficiency

Lower sunlight in winter reduces output. However, battery storage or grid-tied systems help manage this.

Glare and Aesthetics

Some homeowners worry about glare. Opting for solar glass panels offers a sleek, modern appearance.

Final Thoughts

Installing solar technology on your conservatory roof is more than just an innovative idea—it’s a smart investment in your property’s future. Whether you're aiming to cut utility bills, improve your EPC rating, or demonstrate environmental leadership, this approach ticks multiple boxes.

For homeowners, it offers long-term savings and added home value. Landlords benefit from better compliance and tenant satisfaction. Businesses can enhance their sustainability profile while reducing overheads.

Just like any renewable upgrade, success depends on getting the right system, working with an experienced installer, and ensuring your structure is suitable. With the right guidance, you can turn an often-underused space into a productive, eco-friendly asset.

FAQs

Can I install solar panels on a conservatory roof without reinforcing it?

It depends on the roof material and structure. Most traditional conservatory roofs, especially those made of polycarbonate or glass, are not designed to bear heavy loads like standard solar panels.

However, lightweight alternatives such as solar film or frameless panels can often be installed without major reinforcement. A structural assessment is always recommended before proceeding.

Will adding solar panels to my conservatory affect natural light?

Yes, but only slightly, depending on the type of panels you use. Semi-transparent solar glass and frameless solar panels are designed to let light through while generating electricity.

These modern options can preserve a bright, open feel in your conservatory, unlike traditional opaque panels.

Is it possible to install solar panels on a tiled conservatory roof?

Yes, if your conservatory has a tiled or solid roof, like those found in modern hybrid or Orangery-style builds, it may be strong enough for traditional solar panels.

These setups often have better load-bearing capacity and may allow for higher-output PV systems than polycarbonate or glass alternatives.

Do solar conservatory installations qualify for VAT reductions?

Yes. As of April 2022, domestic solar panel installations in the UK—including those on conservatories—qualify for 0% VAT under the government’s energy-saving materials initiative.

This incentive is in effect until March 2027 and can significantly reduce installation costs.