Solar Education

How Much Can You Save with Solar Panels in Kent?

May 7, 2025

Purple Flower
Purple Flower
Purple Flower

As energy prices in the UK continue to climb, more homeowners in Kent are looking for ways to gain control over their rising electricity bills. One solution stands out for its long-term impact, environmental benefits, and significant cost savings: solar panels.

If you’re wondering “how much can I actually save with solar panels in Kent?” — the answer is more encouraging than ever. Solar PV systems are not only affordable and accessible in 2025, but they can also deliver annual savings of hundreds (sometimes thousands) of pounds — while reducing your carbon footprint and even increasing your property value.

In this guide, we’ll break down the real savings you can expect, what factors affect those savings, how battery storage can boost your return, and why 2025 is the best time to go solar in Kent.

 

Why Kent Homeowners Are Choosing Solar

Kent, known as the Garden of England, enjoys better-than-average solar exposure compared to many other UK regions. With broad skies and consistent sunlight throughout spring and summer, homes in Sevenoaks, Orpington, Maidstone, and beyond are perfectly placed to harness the sun’s energy.

At EOTA, we’ve helped hundreds of Kent residents reduce their electricity bills through smart, sustainable solar installations. As a social enterprise, we reinvest 50% of our profits back into the community — including schools, charities, and local sustainability projects — making your decision to go solar one that benefits others too.

 

Average Savings for a Home in Kent

So, how much could you realistically save?

For a typical 3-bedroom home in Kent, a solar panel system often includes 10–12 panels, a hybrid inverter, and increasingly, battery storage. Based on average usage and current electricity rates (as of June 2025), this setup could save you between £600 and £1,100 per year on electricity bills.

Over 25 years — the average lifespan of a high-quality solar PV system — that’s over £20,000 in lifetime savings, not including:

• Annual energy price increases

• Potential SEG (Smart Export Guarantee) income

• Increased property value due to improved EPC ratings

For many families, this means repaying the cost of installation in just 6–8 years and enjoying two decades of low or zero electricity costs afterwards.

 

What Affects Your Solar Panel Savings?

While the average savings are attractive, your specific results will depend on several key factors:

1. Roof Size, Angle, and Orientation

South-facing roofs receive the most sunlight throughout the day, maximising energy generation. East and west-facing roofs also perform well, though slightly less efficiently.

2. Shading from Trees or Buildings

Obstructions like tall trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings can reduce the efficiency of your panels. A professional installer will assess shading risks during your site survey.

3. Your Daily Energy Habits

If you use most of your electricity during daylight hours — such as working from home, charging an EV, or running appliances — your solar savings will be even higher.

4. System Size and Panel Efficiency

The more panels you install, the more electricity you can generate. However, quality matters too — higher-efficiency panels from brands like JA Solar, Eurener, or QCells can offer greater output from limited roof space.

5. Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

If your solar panels generate more electricity than you use, you can export the surplus back to the National Grid. Thanks to SEG schemes, you’ll be paid for every kilowatt-hour exported — creating an additional income stream.

 

Can a Battery Make a Difference?

Yes — and it’s often a game-changer.

Battery storage allows you to store the solar energy your system generates during the day, then use it in the evening or overnight. This reduces your reliance on the grid and further cuts your electricity bills.

Many of our customers in Kent have reported:

• Up to 85% reduction in grid usage

• Improved energy independence

• Greater control over when and how they use power

A hybrid solar and battery system with a 10kWh battery typically increases annual savings by £300–£500 compared to a solar-only system.

 

Real-Life Story: Sue from Camberley

One of our recent customers, Sue, had a 10-panel solar system and 10kWh battery installed in early 2025.

“My energy bills have dropped significantly, and I feel great knowing I’m doing something positive for the planet,” she told us.

“Even during winter evenings, I’m able to run the washing machine, watch TV, and cook — all powered by the sun.”

Sue’s setup not only reduces her energy costs but also gives her peace of mind and energy independence, especially during peak pricing times or potential grid instability.

 

2025: The Best Time to Go Solar in the UK

If you’ve been thinking about solar, there’s no better time to take the leap. Homeowners in Kent can currently benefit from a range of financial incentives and policy support that significantly lower the upfront cost.

✅ 0% VAT on Domestic Solar

Thanks to government support, there’s 0% VAT on domestic solar panel systems — extended until 2027. This means you’ll save 20% on the full installation price compared to previous years.

✅ National and Local Grants

Several grant schemes exist to support solar uptake, especially for:

• Low-income households

• Energy-inefficient homes

• Off-gas grid properties

At EOTA, we help you explore eligibility and guide you through applications.

✅ Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)

Energy suppliers now offer payment for the excess electricity your panels generate. SEG rates vary by provider, but many offer 5p–15p per kWh, adding hundreds of pounds per year in extra value.

✅ Improved EPC Ratings

Solar panels improve your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating — making your home more desirable to buyers and potentially boosting resale value by up to 4%.

 

Solar for Every Home in Kent

Whether you live in a terraced house in Tunbridge Wells, a semi-detached in Sevenoaks, or a countryside home near Faversham, solar can work for you.

At EOTA, our team specialises in designing bespoke solar solutions for:

• Homes with limited roof space

• Heritage or listed buildings (we work alongside planning authorities)

• Families wanting battery-backed or EV-compatible systems

• New builds looking to meet SAP or Part L requirements

Every system we install is fully MCS-certified and registered with the DNO — giving you the confidence that your investment is secure and compliant.

 

A Greener Choice That Gives Back

By choosing EOTA, you’re not just investing in your own savings — you’re investing in others too.

We’re a registered social enterprise committed to environmental and community change. In 2024, we installed a full solar system for St Lawrence Primary School in Seal at no profit. And we’re actively looking for our next community project.

So when you choose EOTA, you help:

• Reduce carbon emissions across Kent

• Support charitable solar projects in your area

• Promote energy equity in underserved communities

 

Book Your Free Solar Survey Today

If you’re ready to cut your bills, reduce your carbon footprint, and boost your home’s value, get in touch with our friendly team today.

We offer:

• Free home assessments and roof surveys

• No-pressure advice from trained professionals

• MCS-certified solar and battery installations

• Ongoing support and maintenance options

📍 Serving homeowners in Sevenoaks, Orpington, Camberley, Maidstone, and across Kent & the South East.


Ready to find out how much you could save?

Get in touch now for your free consultation

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