Solar energy is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources in the UK. With energy costs still high and carbon-reduction targets becoming stricter, more homeowners are turning to solar to save money and generate cleaner energy.

But what types of solar energy are actually practical for your home in 2026? In the UK, there are two main options:

1. Solar PV panels – generate electricity

2. Solar thermal systems – heat your water

Beyond these, there are a number of niche or specialist solar options that are emerging, which we’ll also cover.

1. Solar PV: Electricity from the Sun

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels convert sunlight into electricity for your home or for export to the grid. They are the most common type of solar in the UK and the key technology for reducing electricity bills.

Types of PV panels commonly used in UK homes:

• Monocrystalline silicon – High-efficiency, black panels; the best choice for most UK roofs because they generate more power per square metre without being much more expensive.

• Polycrystalline silicon – Slightly lower efficiency, generally cheaper; suitable if you have more roof space.

• Thin‑film – Lightweight and flexible, but less efficient; mostly for unusual or weight-limited roofs.

• Hybrid/PERC/heterojunction panels – Advanced crystalline options with extra layers for higher efficiency, especially in low-light UK conditions.

Emerging technologies like perovskite, tandem panels, or solar tiles exist but are still niche for most homes in 2026.

Why choose PV:

• Cuts electricity bills

• Minimal maintenance, lifespan 25+ years

• Can be combined with future technologies like batteries or solar tiles

2. Solar Thermal: Hot Water from the Sun

Solar thermal systems use roof-mounted collectors to heat water, which is stored in a hot-water cylinder.

Key points for UK homes:

• Supplies up to 60% of annual hot water demand, nearly 100% in summer.

• Works year-round, but usually requires a boiler or immersion heater in colder months. 

• Suitable for new-builds or retrofits; integrates with heat pumps and existing boilers.

• Only provides heat—not electricity

Why choose solar thermal:

• Reduces hot water bills

• Complements efficient heating systems

• Can work alongside PV panels for full domestic energy coverage

3. Niche and Specialist Solar Options

For homeowners who want something beyond standard PV or thermal, there are several specialist options:

Solar tiles / integrated roofs

• PV cells are built into roof coverings for a discreet appearance.

• Higher cost per kW compared with traditional panels.

• Popular for aesthetic-conscious homeowners or where planning restrictions apply.

Concentrator PV (CPV)

• Uses lenses or mirrors to focus sunlight onto high-efficiency solar cells.

• Mainly used in specialist or utility-scale projects, not common for UK homes.

Transparent / building-integrated PV

• PV installed in windows, façades, or skylights.

• It can generate electricity without changing the appearance of the building.

• Mostly experimental or used in commercial applications at present. 

Other emerging technologies

• Perovskite solar panels – Lightweight, potentially higher efficiency, still early-stage for domestic use.

• Tandem perovskite-silicon panels – Combine standard silicon with perovskite for improved low-light performance.

• Flexible PV sheets – Can be adapted to curved or unusual surfaces, though less efficient.

Why consider niche options:

• Ideal for homes with planning restrictions, unusual roofs, or design priorities.

• May offer higher efficiency or aesthetic benefits, though typically at a higher cost.

• Some options could become mainstream in the next few years as technology improves.

Choosing Solar for Your UK Home

For most homeowners in 2026:

• Lower electricity bills: Monocrystalline PV is the most effective. 

• Lower hot water bills: Solar thermal tied into your hot water cylinder. 

• Aesthetic or specialist needs: Consider solar tiles, integrated PV, or flexible panels.

Your choice depends on roof type, shading, budget, and what you want to achieve—electricity, hot water, or a combination.

Solar Options Comparison for UK Homes (2026)