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3kW Solar System In The UK: Prices, Batteries & More
- 3kW solar systems are best suited for small homes with 1-2 bedrooms.
- You can expect to pay between £7,000 – £8,000 for a 3kW solar system in the UK.
- A solar battery for the 3kW system can cost an additional £2,500 to £3,500.
- With a 3kW solar system, you can expect your initial investment back in 14 – 15 years.
- Annual savings with a 3kW solar system are between £440.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective energy solution for a 1-2 bedroom home, a 3-kilowatt solar panel system could be the perfect solution. Powering your home with renewable energy is a great way to reduce your environmental impact and save on energy bills.
In this guide, we’ll take a look at the 3kW solar system, its typical costs, pros and cons and whether it’s worth the investment. We’ll also explore solar batteries and how they can boost the power of your solar panels, along with expert tips on finding the best solar installers.
If you’re ready to start benefiting from renewable energy, but don’t know where to start, we can help! Don’t waste hours searching the net for installers you can trust, instead, take a few moments to fill in our simple form and gain access to a network of qualified solar professionals.
In no time, we can connect you with up to 4 installers from your local area, who can offer you free, no-obligation quotes. To get the very best prices and expert support simply click the link below.
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £660 per year
What does a 3kW solar system with a battery look like?
3kW solar systems with solar batteries are designed to capture and store solar energy for later use, providing homeowners with a reliable source of clean, renewable power. Typically, this system comprises solar panels, an inverter, and a battery storage unit.
So how do solar panels work? The solar panels, often installed on the roof, capture sunlight and convert it into electricity through a process called the photovoltaic effect. The generated electricity is then directed to the inverter, which converts the direct current (DC) power into alternating current (AC) power, suitable for powering household appliances.
The crucial addition of a battery storage unit allows surplus energy produced during the day to be stored for use during periods of low sunlight or at night, ensuring a consistent and uninterrupted power supply. This means homeowners can reduce their reliance on the grid, leading to greater energy independence and potential cost savings.
What can a 3kW solar panel system run?
A 3kW solar panel system is capable of powering a range of household appliances and electronics, however, it is best suited for small 1-2 bedroom homes. For those with larger properties, more kW power will be required.
For example, for those with medium 3 – 4 bedroom homes, 4kW solar panels or 5kW solar panels would offer more power. Those with larger homes, 5 – 6 bedrooms, would require a 6kW solar system or even 12kW solar panels. This is to ensure an ample supply of energy for the size of the property and the appliance you wish to run on solar.
A 3kW system can typically run essential appliances such as refrigerators, lighting, televisions, computers, and small to medium-sized kitchen appliances. Additionally, it can power electronic devices like smartphones, tablets, and other personal gadgets.
This system is especially beneficial for those who have relatively modest energy needs and are seeking to reduce their reliance on traditional grid-supplied electricity. In addition, homeowners who reside in areas with good sunlight exposure and have roofs with sufficient space for solar panels can benefit the most from a 3kW solar panel system.
3kW solar system price in the UK (2024)
A 3kW solar system costs between £7,000 – £8,000, however, you may encounter additional costs if you wish to include extras. For example, solar battery prices can differ depending on the size you wish you use. You may also want to consider any maintenance costs, such as cleaning or annual services.
Below we have outlined some of the typical prices you can expect if you install a 3kW system and other components.
| System Component | Average Costs* |
|---|---|
| 3kW solar panels (inc. installation) | £7,000 – £8,000 |
| Solar battery | £2,500 – £3,500 |
| Installation labour costs | £600 – £1,000 |
| Maintenance: Panel cleaning | £10 / panel |
| Maintenance: Yearly service | £100 – £200 |
How much power will a 3kW solar system produce?
A 3kW solar panel system can produce up to 2,550 kWh of electricity per year. For a household with 1-2 bedrooms, this is more than adequate to power the entire property, as it’s estimated homes of this size use up to 1,800 kWh annually.
Below is a breakdown of the average power produced by a 3kW system.
| Period | Power Produced |
|---|---|
| Day | 7 kWh |
| Month | 213 kWh |
| Year | 2,550 kWh |
What is the break-even point and lifespan of a 3kW solar system?
A 3kW solar system has a lifespan of 25 – 30 years on average, meaning it can provide energy to your home for a significant time.
Factoring the initial costs alongside the potential savings available annually, it is predicted that you could see a return on your investment into a 3kW solar system in 14 – 15 years. With annual savings (based on current energy prices) of £440 per year and an initial spend of around £7,500, it would take approximately 14 – 15 years to recoup the spend.
There is a way, however, to reduce this return time if you choose to opt into the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) scheme. This scheme will allow you to sell excess energy that your panels produce, back to the grid in exchange for a monetary value. Possible savings through this scheme will vary depending on how much excess solar energy you produce and the price tariffs available from your chosen energy supplier.
If you’re ready to make the most of the sun and reduce your energy bills, why not contact an installer today? Forget trawling through customer reviews though! Finding a trusted installer couldn’t be easier with our simple form. Fill in a few details and we can connect you with up to 4 installers, in your area, who are highly rated professionals ready to help. What’s more, it’s completely free and you’ll receive no-obligation solar panel quotes to compare. Find the best installers with the best deals. Simply click below to begin.
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £660 per year
What are the pros and cons of a 3kW solar system with a battery in the UK?
Installing a 3kW solar system with a battery in the UK offers a variety of benefits and considerations that you should take into account. Here are some of the pros and cons:
Pros
- Cost-effective
A 3kW solar system with a battery provides uninterrupted electricity for approximately 25 years, making your home more energy-efficient. - Energy independence
Using solar panels with a battery increases independence and reduces reliance on the national grid which could be prone to blackouts and price increases. Using solar batteries also provides you with a store of solar energy to use when the weather is too cloudy for your panels to produce active energy. - Savings on energy bills
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills, as you’ll be generating your own power and storing excess energy for later use. In addition, you may be able to supplement your bills through government schemes, such as the SEG. - Environmentally friendly
Solar power is a clean, renewable energy source that reduces carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to environmental sustainability. - Increased property value
Homes with solar energy systems often have higher property values and can be more attractive to buyers looking for eco-friendly features.
Cons
- Initial cost
Installing solar panels can be an expensive upfront investment, with a 3kW solar system costing up to £10,000, including solar battery storage. - Space requirements
Solar panels require a significant amount of roof space, and not all roof configurations are suitable. In addition, a solar battery will need space inside the home. - Impact of British weather
Solar energy can be impacted by the weather in the UK. Overcast conditions may produce less energy, especially in winter. - Complex installation
Installation can be complex and requires professional assistance. It’s important to ensure your roof is suitable for solar panel installation. - Variable energy output
The output of a 3kW system might not always match your energy consumption patterns, leading to times when you might still need to draw energy from the grid.
While a 3kW solar system with a battery in the UK offers many benefits, including lower energy bills and environmental sustainability, it also comes with considerations such as cost and space requirements. It’s important to assess these factors in relation to your specific situation to determine if such a system is the right choice for you.
Is a solar 3kW system worth it for you?
If you own a small home with 1-2 bedrooms and are looking for a sustainable way to power your home effectively, then a 3kW solar system is the ideal choice.
This system is powerful enough to supply energy to your property for the next 25 years and, when paired with a solar battery, it can be relied upon whatever the weather! Switching to solar energy is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on energy bills.
If you want to start reducing your carbon footprint, gain energy independence, and make long-term cost savings, a 3kW solar system is undoubtedly worth it for you.
Find 3kW solar system installers near you
Finding reputable installers online can be a pain, trying to avoid those with bad reviews or overly priced services is a nightmare – but it doesn’t have to be! In just a few clicks, we can connect you with up to 4 highly rated, trusted professionals who can offer you the best deals.
By using our simple form you can find out how much solar panels cost in your area and get free, no-obligation quotes from local installers in no time. So if you’re ready to get started with solar energy, take the first step today by clicking the link below.
- Quotes from local installers
- Payment by finance available
- Save up to £660 per year
Frequently asked questions
Becky has been bringing quality advice to homeowners since 2021. As an experienced writer, she is keen to help our customers find the help they need when they need it.
