You could save money and have more cash for yourself
The MoneySavingExpert (MSE) team has warned that energy prices are expected to rise after April, but households with solar panels could help cut their costs. You can also do a quick check to see if you could get paid for the electricity you export.
In an update at the start of the month, MSE explain: “On 1 April, the Energy Price Cap fell by 6.7%, meaning a household with typical usage paying by Direct Debit will pay £1,641 a year. The drop in April is largely due the Autumn Budget, when the Government announced it would cut household energy bills by ‘£150’ a year.
“However, from July analysts are predicting the Price Cap will rise significantly, due to the recent conflict in the Middle East. Plus wholesale costs remain high and network costs are predicted to rise over the next five years.”
I have solar panels. How can I reduce my bill?
MSE say that there are “more than 1.6 million homes across the UK with solar panels.” If you have them, it’s worth checking whether you can get paid for the electricity you generate but don’t use.
It adds: “As well as saving you money on energy bills, solar panels can earn you cash. And don’t worry, they can still generate electricity on gloomy days, vital when the weather’s as dull as dishwater.”
Updated on 13 April 2026, the guidance encourages households with existing solar panels to make the most of them. For those without them, installing solar panels may not always be cost-effective.
How do solar panels work?
Solar panels turn sunlight into electricity. Inside solar panels – also known as photovoltaics (PV), sunlight causes tiny particles called electrons to move, generating an electric current.
This movement creates an electric current, which is then converted into usable electricity. The power flows through wires to run appliances, light your home, and even charge an electric vehicle. Any surplus energy can be exported back to the grid, where you may receive payment for it.
What are the benefits of solar panels?
MSE stresses that solar panels “give a number of benefits”. And you may not know them all.
- Lower energy bills. Producing your own electricity to power your home and your vehicles means you can reduce the amount you take from the grid – which right now is extremely costly. To maximise savings, you can also invest in a solar battery as well.
- Get paid for any electricity you generate but don’t use. You can get financial incentives from the UK Government under the smart export guarantee, which pays homeowners for excess electricity they generate and feed back to the grid.
- Solar power is clean and green. You’re producing electricity without emitting harmful greenhouse gases, helping to lower your (and the UK’s) carbon footprint.
- Low maintenance. Solar panels have minimal moving parts so require little maintenance. Routine cleaning and occasional checks are usually enough to keep your system running efficiently.
- They could increase your property value. Homes with solar panels can sell for more than those without, as potential buyers are attracted by the savings and eco-friendliness. Though some say that the increase in property value doesn’t outweigh the cost of installation.
Should I get solar panels?
MSE cautions anyone thinking of getting them to “always check the maths first, to make sure you can recoup the cost of getting them installed.” It notes that while there are many benefits to installing solar panels, it doesn’t mean you should rush out to get them.
Solar power scams
MSE advises people considering solar panels to be cautious of scam ads offering cheap installation or maintenance. It notes that there have been numerous reports of fake emails and fraudulent websites.
It explains: “We’ve heard numerous reports of scam emails and websites offering cheap solar panel installation and free health checks, so do be careful.
“It’s important you do your research and use a reputable company before getting solar panels fitted and once you’ve got them, don’t fall for ads trying to sell you solar panel servicing or cleaning.”
You can find out more about solar panels and how to get paid top rates for electricity you export online via the MoneySavingExpert website.
