Are Solar Panels right for your home in East Anglia?

As we approach 2026, solar panels continue to be a smart investment for homeowners in East Anglia, including Norfolk, Suffolk, and Colchester. With rising energy costs, government incentives, and advancements in technology, it's an ideal time to consider solar energy.

The SEG allows homeowners to sell excess solar energy back to the grid. As of late 2025, some of the best SEG rates include:

• British Gas: 15.1p per kWh

• Octopus Energy: 15p per kWh

• Good Energy: 15p per kWh

These rates can significantly offset installation costs and enhance returns on investment.

To take advantage of the SEG scheme, you will need to ensure that your solar panel system is registered with the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS). The MCS is a UK government-backed scheme that certifies the installation of renewable energy systems, including solar panels, to ensure that they meet the required standards. Once your system is registered, you can start exporting excess energy to the grid and earning money back from your energy supplier.

The Smart Export Guarantee League table is updated all the time. As each company tries to keep up with the rapidly evolving marketplace.

Adding a solar battery allows you to store excess energy for later use. A 5kWh battery typically costs between £2,500 and £5,000 when installed with solar panels. This investment can increase energy independence and reduce reliance on the grid

Charging your electric vehicle (EV) with solar energy is both eco-friendly and cost-effective. A combined solar panel and EV charging setup costs approximately £15,200, which includes a 6.75kWp solar system, a 5kWh battery, and a solar-compatible EV charger . This integration maximises the use of renewable energy and can lead to significant savings on fuel costs.

We currently offer a free 7KW EV charger when you get a new ASHP or Solar PV system with us.

East Anglia offers excellent conditions for solar energy:

• Sunlight: The region receives ample sunlight, making solar panels effective.

• Government Schemes: Programs like the Boiler Upgrade Scheme and ECO4 are available to assist with installation costs.

• Local Installers: Numerous certified installers in Norfolk, Suffolk, and Colchester can provide tailored solutions.

The return on investment for solar panel systems can vary depending on the size of your system, your energy usage, and the cost of electricity in your area. However, many homeowners can expect to recoup their investment within 5-10 years. Based on Energy Saving Trust estimates, a typical household with a 4.2 kilowatt-peak system can knock between £350 and £650/year off bills.

Secondly, you could make £200-£300 a year from selling off excess electricity. While you won't be making as much as you could if you'd had them installed prior to 2019. With the rising cost of electricity, it's still viable to export excess electricity.

Finally in addition to saving money and selling excess electricity, installing solar panels can also increase the value of your property. A recent study found that homes with solar panels sell for an average of 5% more than homes without them.

Looking for further advice we have a whole heap of articles about everything renewable; Air Source Heat Pumps, Hydrogen Boilers, Energy Saving advice and much more.

Gasway Services also provides Expert advice on Boiler Installation, and Maintainance and has a selection of world-class cover plans, suited for just about any heating system or home.