Can I Install Solar Panels In My Garden? Costs, Pros & Cons

Last Updated on June 17, 2025

As solar adoption increases across the UK, many homeowners and landlords are exploring alternatives to roof installations. One increasingly popular solution is garden-mounted solar panels. 

If you’re short on roof space, have an unsuitable roof angle, or simply prefer a more accessible setup, installing solar panels in your garden could be an ideal option.

This guide explains everything you need to know about garden solar panel installations, including costs, pros and cons, system sizes for different properties, and what you need to consider before going ahead.

Can I Put Solar Panels in My Garden?

Yes, you can install solar panels in your garden in the UK, but with some conditions. Permitted development rights typically allow ground-mounted systems without the need for planning permission, as long as:

• The system is under 9m²
  
• It’s no more than 4 metres high
  
• It’s not in front of the main elevation of the house
  
• It’s at least 5 metres from the property boundary

If your home is listed or within a conservation area, additional permissions may be required. It’s always best to check with your local planning authority.

Pros and Cons of Installing Solar Panels in Your Garden

Advantages:

• Flexible placement for optimal sun exposure
  
• Ideal for homes with shaded or north-facing roofs
  
• Easier to clean, maintain, and upgrade
  
• Increased airflow can improve panel efficiency
  
• Avoids drilling into the roof, preserving roof integrity
  

For more detailed guidance on the advantages of ground-mounted solar panels, check our in-depth insights on performance and longevity.

Disadvantages:

• Potential planning restrictions in protected areas
  
• Requires garden space, which may not suit all properties
  
• Typically higher installation costs
  
• May require fencing or protective barriers
  
• More visible and could impact garden aesthetics

What are the Costs of Ground-Mounted Solar Panel Systems?

Installing solar panels in your garden typically costs a little more than roof-mounted systems due to the need for custom framing and supports. On average, expect to pay:

• £7,000 – £10,000 for a 3kW system
  
• £9,000 – £12,000 for a 4kW system
  
• £11,000 – £14,000 for a 6kW system

However, garden setups can offer better efficiency if optimally positioned with the right orientation and tilt, potentially making them more cost-effective in the long run.

Ground-Mounted Solar Panels for Different Property Sizes

Panels are approx. 1.7m² each, and systems need spacing for airflow and access, which is why actual usable area per panel is closer to 2–2.5m².

If you’ve got the garden space, a well-planned ground-mounted system can outperform rooftop setups, especially when optimally positioned. 

Curious how much you could save? Request a custom solar panel quote from Eco Happy and we’ll show you how to turn your garden into a clean energy powerhouse.

Can You Get Grants for Garden Solar Panels?

Yes, some UK energy schemes and local authorities offer grants or funding that can be used toward ground-mounted solar panel systems, particularly if:

• The installation is part of a wider energy-efficiency upgrade
  
• You’re a low-income household or live in fuel poverty
  
• The system helps meet the goals of local council carbon reduction initiatives

Some grants include the ECO4 Scheme, the Green Deal (in some areas), and regional retrofit programmes. While the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) isn’t a grant, it lets you earn money for the excess electricity your system exports to the grid which helps offset installation costs over time.

For larger properties or landlords installing solar across multiple homes, this long-term return can be quite substantial, particularly once you calculate how long it takes for solar panels to pay for themselves.

It’s always worth checking with your local council or a trusted installer who can advise on eligibility for any current solar grants or incentives applicable to ground-mounted systems.

Do I Need Planning Permission for Installing Ground-Mounted Solar Panels?

As mentioned earlier, most installations fall under permitted development. However, you’ll need planning permission if:

• The structure exceeds height or area limits
  
• It’s located near a public highway
  
• Your property is within a National Park, AONB, or conservation area

You’ll also want to consider the maximum number of solar panels allowed in the UK without planning issues,  especially if you’re planning to install a large system.

How to Optimise Your Garden for a Ground-Mounted Solar Panel System

For maximum returns, ensure:

• Panels face south or south-west
  
• They are tilted between 30°–40°
  
• No shading from trees, fences, or nearby buildings

While you’re reviewing your setup, you might also compare horizontal vs vertical solar panel installation, particularly for limited-height areas or sloped gardens.

Don’t forget to evaluate the different types of solar panels available, as monocrystalline panels tend to offer higher efficiency for ground mounts.

Do Solar Panels in the Garden Work in Winter?

Yes, garden solar panels will still generate electricity during winter, although at reduced output due to shorter daylight hours and lower sun angles. With better airflow and optimal tilt, they can outperform roof systems in cooler conditions. Learn more about how solar panels work in winter, and what to expect from seasonal performance.

Should You Add Solar Batteries?

If you’re installing solar panels in your garden, it’s worth considering how to store the energy you generate. A solar battery system lets you use your solar power even after sunset, helping you reduce your reliance on the grid and get more from your investment.

Battery storage is especially useful during power outages, when it can keep your essentials running. Plus, with the right setup, you can dramatically cut your bills, especially with the increasing energy price volatility across the UK.

We’ve created a detailed guide on the average monthly electricity bill with solar panels in the UK to help you get a better understanding on savings.

Before making the leap, it’s smart to explore how long different batteries last, what size system suits your usage, and whether the costs of solar batteries align with your savings goals. In homes with larger setups or EV charging points, solar batteries often pay for themselves much faster.

How to Choose the Right Solar Panel System and Installer

When installing solar panels in your garden, it’s not just about space, it’s about system quality, installation expertise, and component choice. The best garden solar setups consider panel type, orientation, and battery integration from the start.

For instance, black solar panels are often chosen for their aesthetics, but are they worth the price tag? And should you be comparing monocrystalline vs polycrystalline options, or focus instead on panel efficiency? 

These are key questions, and knowing how to choose solar panels for your home makes a huge difference to long-term performance.

Just as important is selecting the right installation partner. Beyond MCS accreditation, you should ask targeted questions to your solar installer to understand their experience with ground-mounted systems. 

We also recommend reading up on what defines a trusted provider, especially if you’re comparing quotes and wondering how to choose a solar panel installer that won’t cut corners.

If you’re still deciding between a roof or garden setup, it’s worth weighing the benefits of ground vs roof mounted systems, particularly when it comes to accessibility and future maintenance.

Get a Free Solar Panel Quote Today

Looking to power your home sustainably and reduce your energy bills? Whether you’re considering solar for a semi-detached house or a large countryside property, Eco Happy can help you find the perfect garden solar panel solution.

Our expert team will assess your energy needs, property type, and sun exposure to recommend the most effective setup with no pressure and no obligations.

Request your free solar panel installation quote today and start your solar journey today.