Thinking about installing solar panels on your garage roof? You’re not alone.
More UK homeowners, landlords, and even commercial property owners are exploring alternative roof spaces to increase solar capacity and maximise savings.
If your garage roof is underused, it could be an excellent site for solar PV. In this guide, we’ll answer all your questions about garage roof suitability, planning considerations, costs, UK government grants, and more.
Can You Fit Solar Panels On A Garage Roof In The UK?
Yes, you can install solar panels on a garage roof in the UK, provided certain conditions are met. The roof needs to be structurally sound, have sufficient size, and receive a decent amount of sunlight.
Whether your garage has a pitched roof, a flat roof, or even a rubber roof, there are solar panel installation options available. In fact, we’ve covered specific advice on solar panel installation on rubber roofs.
Additionally, we have a dedicated article on solar panel installation on flat roofs.
Installing solar panels on a detached garage may also allow you to bypass some of the shading or orientation limitations of your main home.
It’s a smart move for properties with limited roof space or those looking to expand their system.
And if you’re based in Tyne and Wear, Newcastle or the North East, we highly recommend requesting a solar panel quote from Future Heat. We are a trusted local installer in the region.
What Factors Determine If My Garage Roof Is Suitable For Solar Panels?
Several factors influence garage roof suitability:
1. Roof size & load-bearing capacity
The structure must support the weight of solar panels and mounting equipment, about 20kg per square metre.
Flat roofs may need tilted mounting frames, which adds weight and wind load. It’s also important to assess for reinforcements, especially on older garages.
2. Sunlight exposure & orientation
South-facing roofs with little shading offer optimal solar output. East or west-facing roofs can still work efficiently, although the output may drop slightly.
Shading from nearby trees or buildings could impact system performance.
3. Roof pitch
A pitch of 30 to 40 degrees is ideal. For flat or shallow-pitched roofs, brackets can be used to optimise panel angle. You can read more about horizontal vs vertical solar panel installation for additional orientation options.
4. Roofing material
Common materials like concrete tiles or metal sheets pose no problem, but you’ll want to assess compatibility if your garage has a felt, bitumen, or rubber membrane.
5. Proximity to the home
If your garage is detached, wiring and connection to the inverter may require additional trenching or installation costs, especially if you want to connect it to your home’s energy supply and/or solar battery storage.
Read our guide on are solar batteries worth it for more insights.
What Size Solar Panels Are Suitable For Garage Roofs?
Below is a general table showing common garage roof sizes and estimated solar panel capacity:
| Garage Roof Size (m²) | Panel Count (Approx.) | Estimated Output (kW) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 – 15 | 4 – 6 panels | 1.6 – 2.4 kW |
| 15 – 20 | 6 – 8 panels | 2.4 – 3.2 kW |
| 20 – 25 | 8 – 10 panels | 3.2 – 4.0 kW |
If you are not sure how many solar panels you would need, most UK households need between 8 and 12 panels, depending on their consumption.
How Much Energy Can You Expect From Garage Roof Solar Panels?
A typical garage installation of 2-4 kW could generate around 1,700 to 3,400 kWh per year, depending on roof angle, shading, and location.
This could offset a significant portion of your electricity bill.
For context, the average monthly electric bill with solar panels in the UK can be reduced by over 60%.
Can I Combine A Garage Roof System With A Solar Battery?
Absolutely. Combining your garage-mounted panels with battery storage allows you to optimise self-consumption, reduce reliance on the grid, and protect against energy price spikes.
If you’re unsure about the size, check out our guide on what size solar battery you would need.
Many homeowners often ask, “Do solar panels work in winter?” The short answer is yes, though energy production does decrease during the colder months. That’s why investing in solar batteries can be especially worthwhile.
Do You Need Planning Permission To Install Solar Panels On A Garage Roof?
In most cases, no planning permission is required. Under the UK’s permitted development rights, solar panels can be installed without council approval if they:
- Don’t protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface
- Are not installed on a listed building
- Don’t face a highway (if on a stand-alone structure)
However, if the garage is in a conservation area or the panels are visible from a public road, permission may be required. Check with your local planning authority or consult guidance from the Planning Portal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If the garage is detached, a separate string inverter or micro-inverter may be necessary, especially if wiring distance is significant. A hybrid inverter may also be used if you add battery storage.
Yes, especially if the garage is wired as part of your main home’s circuit. Some homeowners also use garage-mounted panels to charge an EV or run small tools. What appliances can be powered by solar panels depends on your system size.
Yes. High-efficiency monocrystalline panels or half-cut cell designs are better suited for small surfaces. These generate more energy per square metre.
We strongly advise using a certified installer. DIY solar installations can void warranties, affect eligibility for schemes like SEG, and pose electrical risks. Learn more about why in our guide on can I install solar panels myself?
Our Verdict
Installing solar panels on a garage roof in the UK is not only possible, it’s a strategic move for homeowners and landlords looking to increase solar generation capacity.
With available government incentives, compatibility with solar batteries, and flexibility in system sizing, your garage can be transformed into a clean energy asset.
Myles Robinson is a seasoned expert in the boiler and home improvement industry, with over a decade of experience. He is deeply committed to environmental sustainability, actively promoting energy-efficient heating solutions to help households reduce their carbon footprint. By combining industry expertise with a dedication to environmental responsibility, Myles continues to lead efforts in transforming home heating practices towards a more sustainable future.
