Can You Install Solar Panels on Garage Roof?

Key Takeaways

• Installing solar panels on a garage roof is a viable option, especially if the garage is within your property boundary and already has an electricity cable connecting it to the main house. This existing connection can support the photovoltaic (PV) system, making the installation straightforward.
• If there’s no existing cable between the house and garage, you’ll need to lay one, which involves digging a trench through the garden. This task can be done by yourself or with professional assistance.
• For commercial projects, EvoEnergy typically requires a garage roof space of at least 300 square meters. For smaller residential projects, consulting with a domestic solar installer is recommended.
• To estimate the potential energy generation from your garage roof, you can use tools like EvoEnergy’s solar PV calculator. This will help you understand the feasibility and benefits of installing solar panels on your garage.

Solar panels are becoming increasingly popular as homeowners seek ways to harness renewable energy, reduce costs, and boost their property value. But can you install solar panels on a garage roof? 

The short answer is yes. Whether your garage is attached or detached, solar panels can be installed effectively to convert sunlight into energy, even on smaller structures. 

This article explores the benefits, considerations, and costs associated with garage roof solar installations.

Is It Possible to Install Solar Panels on a Garage Roof?

Garage roofs come in various types—flat, sloped, metal, and tiled—all of which can accommodate solar panels with the right setup. While sloped roofs (especially south-facing ones in the UK) are optimal, even flat roofs can be effective with adjustable mounts.

It’s crucial to evaluate the structural integrity of your garage roof. If it’s old or not designed to bear additional weight, reinforcing it may be necessary. For a solar panel system to be efficient, the garage roof must have enough space to fit multiple panels. Generally, at least 10 square metres is recommended for a standard residential setup.

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

Installing solar panels on a garage roof offers several practical and financial advantages, making it a smart choice for homeowners looking to maximise renewable energy use. Below, we dive deeper into the main benefits:

Maximising Space

Many garages, whether detached or attached, have ample roof space that often needs to be used. Homeowners can turn an idle area into a productive energy-generating site by installing solar panels on this surface.

A garage roof installation allows solar energy generation without wasting valuable ground for properties with limited garden or yard space. This is especially advantageous for those who want to maintain their outdoor spaces for other uses.

Energy Independence

Solar panels on a garage roof can power the entire home or specific areas, such as the garage itself. This is particularly useful if you use the garage as a workshop or for charging electric vehicles (EVs), providing a dedicated and sustainable power source for your needs.

When combined with battery storage, garage solar panels can provide backup power during outages, enhancing energy security. Stored solar energy can power essential home functions even when the main grid is down, offering peace of mind and continuous operation.

Increased Property Value

Homes with solar panel installations are increasingly attractive in the real estate market. According to recent studies, properties equipped with solar panels sell faster and for higher prices than those without. A solar-equipped garage can enhance your home’s appeal by showcasing an additional eco-friendly feature.

Potential buyers are often willing to pay a premium for homes with energy-efficient upgrades, and a garage solar system is a visible commitment to sustainability. It adds a functional and financial value, translating into higher market desirability and potential return on investment.

Environmental Impact

Installing solar panels on your garage roof directly reduces carbon emissions. By generating renewable energy, you decrease reliance on fossil fuels and help fight climate change. A typical solar panel installation can offset around 1.3 to 1.6 tonnes of CO₂ emissions annually.

Every small step counts when combating climate change, and adding solar panels to your garage is a proactive approach. You’re powering your home sustainably, setting an example for the community, and supporting the broader movement toward renewable energy.

What Factors Should You Consider Before Installation?

1. Orientation and Sunlight Exposure: The efficiency of a solar panel system depends on the amount of sunlight it receives. A south-facing garage roof in the UK receives optimal sunlight throughout the day. East and west-facing roofs can also work but may yield slightly less energy.
2. Roof Load Capacity: It is vital to ensure that your garage roof can bear the weight of solar panels and their mounting system. A professional assessment is necessary to determine whether reinforcements are needed.
3. Planning Permissions and Regulations: In many cases, installing solar panels on a garage roof does not require planning permission in the UK unless the property is in a conservation area or listed. Checking local regulations ensures compliance.
4. Connection to the Home’s Electrical System: Installing solar panels on a garage requires connecting the system to your home’s main electrical network. Hiring certified professionals is essential for safe and efficient integration.

How Much Does It Cost to Install Solar Panels on a Garage Roof?

Installing solar panels on a garage roof typically ranges between £4,000 and £8,000, depending on the system size, type of panels, and any structural adjustments needed. This cost includes equipment, labour, and electrical connections.

Garage-based solar panels can significantly save electricity bills, potentially reducing costs by up to £300 per year, depending on the system size and energy usage patterns.

The UK government offers incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which allows homeowners to sell excess energy back to the grid. This can further offset installation costs and improve the payback period, which is usually between 5 and 10 years.

Are There Any Limitations or Challenges?

• Limited Space: Garage roofs might offer less space than a house roof, limiting the number of panels you can install. This could affect the overall energy output and efficiency of the system.
• Weather Impact: Garages are typically less insulated than homes, exposing the roof to extreme weather conditions, which could impact the panels’ performance over time.
• Maintenance Requirements: Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial to ensure maximum efficiency. Garage roof installations may require additional attention, especially if the roof is flat, as debris and water may accumulate.

How to Choose the Right Solar Panel System for Your Garage Roof?

• Panel Types Suitable for Garage Roofs: Monocrystalline panels are a great choice for garage roofs due to their high efficiency, even in limited spaces. Thin-film panels, especially for lightweight structures, can also be suitable.
• Selecting the Right Inverter: An efficient inverter is essential to optimising energy conversion. Microinverters, which allow each panel to operate independently, can be particularly effective for smaller installations.
• Battery Storage Options: Integrating battery storage enhances the benefits of garage solar setups, enabling you to store energy for use at night or during low-sunlight periods. This is especially useful if the garage is also used for EV charging.

Ready to Power Up Your Garage? Explore Your Solar Options Today!

Installing solar panels on a garage roof is not only possible but also highly beneficial. They maximise unused space, reduce energy bills, and boost property value. However, it is essential to assess the structural capacity, orientation, and regulations before proceeding.

If you’re interested in seeing how much energy you could generate and how much you could save, try out EvoEnergy’s Solar Panel Calculator to explore the potential benefits for your garage setup. For tailored advice and professional installation services, visit our renewable energy services and start your journey towards sustainable energy today.