How Solar Panels Affect Your EPC Rating in London
Solar panels can influence your solar panels EPC rating because they generate electricity from a renewable source. However, installing panels does not guarantee a particular EPC band. The result depends on the property’s characteristics, the installed system and the assessment methodology.
For London homeowners, landlords and property sellers, understanding how solar photovoltaic (PV) systems relate to an Energy Performance Certificate can help when preparing a property for sale or rent. It can also help you organise the right information before an assessor visits.
This guide explains what solar panels may mean for your EPC, which records to keep and what to consider before arranging an assessment.
Do Solar Panels Improve an EPC Rating?
Solar panels may improve a property’s EPC rating because they generate electricity on site. Their contribution depends on the system and how it is represented in the applicable assessment methodology.
Nevertheless, solar panels are only one part of a property’s energy performance. Insulation, heating, hot water, windows, lighting and other building features can also influence the result.
For example, a home with solar panels but poor insulation may still receive a lower rating than expected. Similarly, two properties with solar panels may achieve different ratings because their construction and heating systems differ.
If you want to understand the rating bands before reviewing your certificate, read our guide to what an EPC rating means for London property owners.
The key point is simple: solar panels can be beneficial, but their presence alone does not determine the final EPC rating.
What Information About Solar Panels Matters for an EPC?
During an assessment, the assessor collects information about the property and its energy-related features. Where relevant, details of a solar PV system may help establish what is installed.
1. The Type of Solar System
First, identify the type of installation at your property. Solar PV panels generate electricity, whereas solar thermal systems use solar energy to help heat water.
These technologies perform different functions. Therefore, it is useful to explain which system your property has rather than referring to every roof-mounted installation simply as solar panels.
If you have paperwork from the installer, keep it available for the assessor.
2. System Details and Installation Records
Next, gather any records that describe the installation. Useful documents may include:
Installation invoices or certificates
Equipment specifications
System capacity details, where available
Commissioning documents
Warranty information
Records of upgrades or repairs
Information about an associated battery system
Not every document will be required in every assessment. However, keeping accurate records makes it easier to explain what has been installed.
The assessor will determine which details are relevant under the applicable methodology. You should not assume that every document automatically changes the rating.
For an overview of the wider assessment process, see our guide on preparing for an EPC assessment in London.
3. Solar Batteries and Other Equipment
Some homes have battery storage alongside solar panels. A battery can store electricity for later use, while other systems may include monitoring equipment or smart controls.
Tell your assessor about these features and provide their specifications if available. However, do not assume that every component receives a separate credit under the current EPC calculation.
The treatment of equipment depends on the assessment methodology and the information that can be verified.
Can Solar Panels Help When Selling a London Property?
Solar panels can be a useful feature to mention when marketing a property. They may appeal to buyers who are interested in renewable electricity generation and potential energy savings.
However, avoid promising a specific EPC rating or a guaranteed reduction in energy bills solely because solar panels are installed.
Actual savings can depend on factors such as electricity consumption, the size of the system, generation levels, export arrangements and when electricity is used.
An EPC is also not a complete forecast of every household’s energy bills. It assesses the property using a standardised methodology rather than the exact habits of each occupant.
Before advertising your home, check whether a valid EPC already exists. If a new assessment is needed, arrange it in good time.
Our EPC checklist before marketing a property in London explains other details to consider before putting a property on the market.
What If Solar Panels Were Installed After Your Last EPC?
If you installed solar panels after your previous assessment, the existing certificate will not automatically update to reflect the change.
You may want to arrange a new EPC if you need a certificate that reflects the property’s current features. This can be particularly relevant when preparing to sell or let a property, or when reviewing the effect of wider energy-efficiency improvements.
Before booking, check the expiry date and details of your existing certificate. You can use the official GOV.UK Find an Energy Certificate service to search for an existing record.
It is also worth reviewing our guide to how home improvements can affect an EPC in London.
A new assessment should reflect the property as it exists at the time of the inspection. The assessor will determine the relevant details and calculate the rating using the applicable methodology.
Do Solar Panels Remove the Need for Other EPC Improvements?
No. Solar panels do not automatically resolve other energy-efficiency issues in a property.
For example, a home may still benefit from improvements to insulation, heating controls or hot water systems. The most appropriate measures depend on the building and the recommendations in its EPC.
Before investing in further work, review the recommendations on your current certificate. Consider the cost, practicality and suitability of each measure rather than assuming that one technology will solve every issue.
Our guide on how to improve your EPC rating before selling or letting explains how to review potential improvements.
Property type can also affect the assessment. For example, flats with shared systems or converted layouts may need different information from a typical house. You may find our guides to EPCs for flats with communal heating in London and EPCs for converted flats in London useful if either situation applies to your property.
What Should You Prepare Before an EPC Assessment?
A little preparation can help the appointment run smoothly. Use this checklist before the assessor arrives.
Check your current certificate: Confirm whether an EPC already exists and review its expiry date.
Gather solar panel records: Keep installation details, equipment specifications and relevant certificates available.
Explain any additional equipment: Mention battery storage or other energy-related systems where applicable.
Provide access: Make relevant rooms and accessible equipment available for inspection.
Prepare improvement records: Gather information about insulation, heating, glazing and other upgrades.
Check property details: Make sure you can explain any recent alterations or changes to the building.
The assessor will decide which information is relevant and what can be recorded. Supporting documents can be helpful, but they do not guarantee that every feature will be included in the calculation.
For the official requirements and guidance, consult the government’s guide to Energy Performance Certificates for the marketing, sale and letting of homes.
How to Arrange an EPC for a Property With Solar Panels
If you need a new certificate, choose an appropriately accredited assessor who can assess your property type.
When making an enquiry, explain that the property has solar panels and mention any battery storage or unusual features. This gives the provider useful context before the appointment.
You can review our EPC services and check the latest EPC pricing before arranging an appointment.
If you are ready to proceed, use our EPC booking page. You can also contact EPC Rate London if you have questions about your property or the assessment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do solar panels guarantee a higher EPC rating?
No. Solar panels may contribute positively to an EPC assessment, but the final rating depends on the property’s features and the applicable calculation methodology.
Do I need solar panel paperwork for an EPC?
It is sensible to keep installation records and equipment specifications available. The assessor can determine which details are relevant and whether supporting evidence is needed.
Should I get a new EPC after installing solar panels?
Consider a new assessment if you need the certificate to reflect the property’s updated features. Your existing EPC does not automatically change when improvements are completed.
Can a property have solar panels and still receive a low EPC rating?
Yes. Other features, including insulation, heating, hot water and the property’s construction, can affect the result.
Where can I check my current EPC?
Use the official GOV.UK energy certificate search to look for an existing certificate.
Final Thoughts
Solar panels can be a valuable feature of a London property, but their effect on an EPC rating depends on more than the panels themselves.
Start by checking your existing certificate, gathering installation records and reviewing any recommendations for further improvements. If you need an updated EPC, arrange an assessment with an accredited assessor and explain the equipment installed at the property.
Taking these steps can help you prepare for the assessment and understand the property’s recorded energy performance more clearly.
If you need an EPC for a London property with solar panels, explore EPC Rate London’s services or book an assessment online.