Regional solar data
Solar Panels in West Midlands
Local sunshine data, yield estimates, DNO information, grants, and planning guidance for homeowners in West Midlands.
1,620
sunshine hours/yr
880
kWh/kWp irradiance
3,520
kWh/yr (4kW system)
£5,000–£7,000
typical 4kW install
Estimated solar yield for West Midlands
Based on a typical 4kW south-facing system at 35° pitch. Figures use conservative regional irradiance data from MCS.
How we calculate this
System size: 4 kWp
Regional irradiance: 880 kWh/kWp/yr
Annual generation: 4 × 880 = 3,520 kWh
Import rate used: 24p/kWh (standard flat tariff, Q2 2026)
SEG export rate used: 15p/kWh (best fixed rate, April 2026)
Without a battery
Typical self-consumption of 40% for a household home during the day.
- Self-consumed (40%)
- 1,408 kWh
- Exported to grid (60%)
- 2,112 kWh
- Import saving (24p × 1,408 kWh)
- £338
- SEG export income (15p × 2,112 kWh)
- £317
- Total annual benefit
- £655
With a battery
A home battery typically raises self-consumption to around 75%.
- Self-consumed (75%)
- 2,640 kWh
- Exported to grid (25%)
- 880 kWh
- Import saving (24p × 2,640 kWh)
- £634
- SEG export income (15p × 880 kWh)
- £132
- Total annual benefit
- £766
These are estimates based on regional averages. Actual yield depends on your roof orientation, pitch, shading, and specific panel technology. Rates used: 24p/kWh import (Ofgem Q2 2026 price cap standard tariff), 15p/kWh SEG export (best available fixed rate, April 2026).
Your Distribution Network Operator
Your DNO manages the local electricity network and must be notified before your solar system goes live.
DNO for West Midlands
National Grid Electricity Distribution
G98 and G99 notifications
Systems up to 3.68 kW (single phase) can use the simpler G98 process — your installer notifies the DNO within 28 days of commissioning.
Systems larger than 3.68 kW, or on a three-phase supply, require G99 approval before installation begins. This can add several weeks to your timeline.
A good installer will handle DNO notifications as part of the installation process. Ask them to confirm this before you sign a contract.
Local grants and schemes in West Midlands
There may be funding available to reduce the upfront cost of solar panels depending on your household income and energy rating.
England households may be eligible for the Warm Homes: Local Grant via their local authority. The West Midlands Combined Authority has previously co-funded retrofit schemes — check with your metropolitan or district council for any current programmes.
Also worth exploring
- ECO4— the government's main energy efficiency scheme for low-income and fuel-poor households, funded through energy supplier obligations. Eligibility is based on income and EPC rating.
- 0% VAT on solar — solar panels, batteries, and installation are zero-rated for VAT until at least 2027, saving around 20% compared to other home improvements.
- Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) — all licensed energy suppliers with 150,000+ customers must offer an export tariff. You earn money for every unit you send to the grid.
Planning permission in West Midlands
Most UK solar installations fall under permitted development and do not require a planning application.
Most West Midlands installations proceed without planning permission under permitted development. Properties in conservation areas in cities such as Birmingham, Coventry, or Shrewsbury should check with the local planning authority.
Permitted development
Applies to most houses. Panels must not protrude more than 200mm from the roof surface and must not be higher than the highest point of the roof.
Conservation areas
Permitted development rights may be restricted. Panels visible from the road or public right of way may require prior approval from the local authority.
Listed buildings
Full listed building consent is almost always required before solar panels can be installed on a listed property. Seek advice from your local authority conservation officer.
Planning rules in the UK are set at national level but interpreted locally. Always confirm with your local planning authority if you are unsure.
Related guides
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