As the UK pushes towards net-zero emissions, solar photovoltaic (PV) panels have become a popular upgrade for homeowners and landlords looking to cut energy bills and improve Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings. But how exactly do solar panels influence your EPC score? Does installing PV guarantee a better rating?
In this article, we break down how EPC assessments account for solar installations and what property owners need to know to ensure their panels are properly reflected in their EPC results.
For personalised advice on EPC assessments that fully factor in solar PV installations, visit our Services page.
1. How EPC Assessments Evaluate Solar Panels
EPC assessments consider solar photovoltaic (PV) systems as part of the property’s energy generation capabilities. Specifically, assessors look at:
Array Size (kWp): The maximum electrical output capacity.
Orientation and Tilt: South-facing roofs yield higher generation estimates.
Shading Factors: Nearby trees or buildings can reduce efficiency.
Inverter Efficiency: How effectively DC electricity from panels is converted to usable AC electricity.
Solar PV installations are recognised as renewable energy sources, reducing the property’s primary energy demand and associated CO2 emissions — both critical factors in EPC scoring.
2. How Much Can Solar Panels Improve Your EPC Rating?
The EPC uplift from solar panels depends on:
Existing property fabric (insulation, glazing, etc.).
Size of the PV array.
Usage patterns and heating systems.
Typically:
A 2–3 kWp array can improve a property’s EPC band by 1-2 levels (e.g., from D to C).
Larger systems on well-insulated properties can push ratings to B or even A.
However, properties with inefficient heating systems or poor insulation may see limited improvements if those areas remain unaddressed.
For an accurate assessment of your potential EPC improvement, book an EPC inspection with our specialist assessors.
3. Common Documentation Required to Ensure Your Solar PV is Recognised
To ensure your EPC assessor can accurately model your solar installation, you should provide:
MCS Certificate for the solar installation.
Technical specifications (array size, orientation, inverter efficiency).
Installation diagrams (optional but helpful).
Without this documentation, assessors may be forced to apply default or conservative assumptions, which could undervalue your EPC rating uplift.
4. EPC Software Limitations: SAP vs RdSAP for Solar Panels
| Assessment Type | Solar PV Recognition |
|---|---|
| SAP (New Builds/Full SAP) | Full integration of solar PV generation, shading, and battery storage (if present). |
| RdSAP (Existing Properties) | Simplified recognition; shading and exact orientation may be approximated. |
Most existing properties are assessed under RdSAP, which has limitations in modelling detailed PV performance. However, a skilled assessor can ensure that array size, tilt, and orientation are correctly recorded for optimal EPC scoring.
Learn more about our EPC methodologies on the About Us page.
5. The Synergy of Solar PV with Other EPC Improvements
While solar PV alone improves EPC ratings, combining it with other upgrades amplifies results:
Loft and wall insulation to reduce heat loss.
Efficient heating systems like heat pumps or condensing boilers.
LED lighting upgrades to lower overall energy demand.
A holistic approach often results in significant EPC uplifts, enabling properties to comply with MEES regulations or boost market value.
Check our Pricing page for transparent assessment costs that factor in solar and other energy-saving measures.
6. Can Solar Batteries Further Improve EPC Ratings?
Currently, EPC software (SAP/RdSAP) has limited scope to factor in solar battery storage. While batteries don’t directly enhance EPC scores, they do provide real-world benefits like:
Increased self-consumption of generated solar power.
Reduced grid dependency.
Enhanced appeal to eco-conscious buyers or tenants.
As EPC methodologies evolve, battery storage could become a recognised factor in future assessments.
7. EPC for Rental Properties: Solar Panels and MEES Compliance
For landlords, solar panels can be a crucial tool in meeting Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES):
Properties below EPC Band E cannot be legally rented (unless exempt).
Solar PV can be a cost-effective route to compliance, especially when other fabric upgrades are challenging (e.g., in heritage properties).
However, MEES compliance must be formally registered. If you need help with MEES strategies, contact us through our Contact page.
Conclusion
Solar panels offer a reliable and environmentally friendly route to improve EPC ratings, reduce utility costs, and enhance property value. However, to maximise their EPC impact, proper documentation, professional assessment, and strategic integration with other energy-saving measures are essential.
At EPCrate, we ensure your solar PV installation is fully recognised and accurately reflected in your EPC report. Schedule a comprehensive assessment through our Booking page and let us help you unlock the full EPC potential of your solar investment.
