How solar panels work
Solar panels contain photovoltaic cells that turn daylight into direct current (DC) electricity. An inverter converts this into the alternating current (AC) your home uses. Your house uses solar power first. Any surplus either charges a battery, if you have one, or is exported to the grid.
Panels do not need direct sunshine to work, but they produce more in bright conditions. In Scotland, output peaks from late spring to early autumn, when days are long. In the depths of winter, output is modest.
What gets installed
- 1
Panels and mounting rails
Fixed to the roof structure with brackets beneath the tiles or slates. Most homes use in-roof or on-roof systems, depending on the roof covering.
- 2
Inverter
Usually in the loft or garage. A hybrid inverter can also manage a battery now or in the future.
- 3
Isolators and generation meter
Safety switches on the DC and AC sides, plus a meter that records what the system generates.
- 4
Network notification
Smaller systems are notified to SP Energy Networks or SSEN after installation (G98). Larger systems need approval before installation (G99).
- 5
Certification and handover
An MCS certificate, electrical certificate and handover pack, which you will need for export payments and any future house sale.
What drives the cost of solar
No two roofs are the same, so an honest price needs a survey. These factors have the biggest influence on your quote:
System size
The number of panels, measured in kWp. A bigger system costs more in total but usually less per panel.
Roof type and access
Slate, tile and flat roofs need different fixings. Height, access and scaffolding needs add to the cost.
Orientation and shading
South-facing roofs generate the most. East-west splits work well too, but may need more panels or optimisers.
Inverter and battery readiness
Choosing a hybrid inverter now costs a little more, but makes adding a battery later simpler.
Electrical upgrades
Older consumer units sometimes need replacing to meet current wiring regulations.
Network approval
Systems above the G98 limit need G99 approval from the network operator, which can add time.
Is my home suitable?
Good candidates have a roof facing anywhere from east through south to west, with little shading from trees, chimneys or neighbouring buildings. The roof also needs to be in sound condition, since panels typically stay in place for decades. Tenement and flatted properties may need agreement from other owners.
If your roof is not suitable, ground-mounted arrays are an option on larger rural plots. A battery or heat pump may also offer better value for your home. We install through MCS-certified partners, and they will tell you honestly if solar is not the right fit.
Common questions
Do solar panels work in Scotland?
Yes. Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not heat, so they work throughout Scotland, including the north. Long summer days help balance shorter winter days. Output depends mostly on roof direction, pitch and shading, which is why a site survey matters more than your postcode.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels in Scotland?
Most roof-mounted systems on houses fall under permitted development, so no planning application is needed. Listed buildings, conservation areas and some flats are different and may need consent. Your installer should check this during the survey before any work is booked, so there are no surprises later.
Can I sell spare solar electricity back to the grid?
Yes. Under the Smart Export Guarantee, energy suppliers pay you for electricity you export. Rates vary between suppliers and change over time, so compare offers. You normally need an MCS-certified installation and a smart meter that can record exports before a supplier will pay you.
How long does a solar installation take?
The physical installation on a typical house usually takes one to two days once scaffolding is up. Before that, there is the survey, system design and the network operator notification. Larger systems that need network approval in advance can take longer to schedule, so plan ahead.
Last updated: 17 October 2026