Growing uncertainty around global conflict and fuel supplies is pushing increasing numbers of British homeowners to generate their own energy, according to analysis from nationwide provider Project Solar UK.
The firm, which is the UK’s largest independent solar panel installer, has forecast a record year for domestic solar installations in 2026, with anxiety over energy bills and global uncertainty believed to be pushing households to act.
Data from the UK’s quality assurance body for solar installations, MCS, shows that domestic solar panel installations increased by 158% in the 12 months following the war in Ukraine in February 2022 – rising from 53,000 to more than 137,000 installations in a single year. Installation rates have continued to climb steadily since.
Project Solar UK said homeowners were using solar as a means to shield themselves from rising global energy prices.
Paul Atherton, Managing Director of Project Solar UK, commented:
“With energy security at the forefront of everybody’s minds, homeowners are coming to us with real concerns over the impact on their bills.
“The data clearly shows us that when people feel exposed to forces beyond their control, they act. We’re seeing exactly the same pattern begin to emerge today.
“While politicians debate the future of Britain’s energy security, we are seeing the British public move to take control of the situation for themselves.”
Project Solar UK’s own customer data shows a typical saving of £891 in the first year alone for households that invest in a full-scale solar solution.
“Beyond being a green option, solar is the smart financial play for most homeowners”, added Paul.
“Once again, consumers are feeling the impact of global volatility in rising prices at the pump, and increases in their home electricity and utility bills.
“The government has made welcome efforts to bring these costs under control, but the public are telling us they want to go further and make smart decisions for themselves on energy security.”
It comes after the Government announced this week that small plug-in solar panels could be available in UK shops and supermarkets within months – in addition to new measures which will see solar panels and heat pumps installed in new homes as standard.
“Any measures which help households manage their bills are to be encouraged”, Paul concluded.
“But homeowners are not waiting for policy to catch up. They are taking action now to protect themselves against future uncertainty.”
