‍Can I Put Solar Panels on My Shed Roof?

Quick Answer: Yes, you can install solar panels on most shed roofs in the UK if the structure can support 10-20kg of weight per square metre and meets Building Regulations. Key requirements for a successful install include adequate roof size, proper orientation, and a structural assessment by a qualified installer.

Whether you want to add on to your home’s existing solar panel set-up or get a standalone system, shed solar installations are a great way to generate clean energy while utilising otherwise unused roof space. Given the UK’s rising energy costs, many homeowners are now considering getting solar panels for their sheds or other outbuildings -- and so should you.

You Can Install Solar Panels on Most Shed Roofs

Installing solar panels on shed roofs is advantageous for homeowners across the UK. Sheds typically offer unobstructed roof space with optimal sun exposure, making them ideal candidates for solar panel installation. Unlike main house roofs that may have chimneys, dormer windows, or complex angles, shed roofs usually provide clean, simple surfaces that make panel installations simple.

Before choosing to install solar panels, you should ensure your shed meets basic structural requirements and complies with local planning laws. Most standard sheds can accommodate solar panels, and you likely won’t need planning permission to install them. However, we recommend carefully assessing your shed and doing the necessary preparation before proceeding with an install.

Structural Requirements for Shed Solar Panel Installation

Roof Load Capacity and Weight Distribution

Your shed roof must support the additional weight of solar panels, which typically add 10-20kg per square metre. Standard residential solar panels weigh approximately 18-23kg each, plus mounting hardware. Before installation, have an expert assess your shed's load-bearing capacity to determine whether it could safely hold up the weight of the panel system.

Roof Material Compatibility

Most common UK shed roofing materials work well with solar installations:

• Felt roofing: Most common on UK sheds, requires careful sealing
• Corrugated sheets: Metal or fibreglass, excellent for solar mounting
• Tiles: Clay or concrete, require specialist mounting systems

Step-by-Step Shed Solar Panel Installation Process

Pre-Installation Planning and Assessment

1. Picking the right system – We offer a free consultation during which one of our expert team members designs a custom solar system for your home and/or shed. We use satellite imaging to determine how many panels can fit on your roof and work with you to pick the right solar equipment for your needs.
2. Detailed site assessment – At MakeMyHouseGreen, we conduct a virtual survey that examines roof access, shading, space, structural concerns, and the specific amount of light each roof face gets. This ensures that we build the best system possible for your home. 

Obtaining Permissions for Shed Solar Installation

Most UK solar installations benefit from Permitted Development Rights, though specific requirements apply:

• Planning Permission: Generally not required for domestic solar installations under 1MW
• Building Regulations: May apply for structural alterations or electrical work
• DNO Notification: Required for grid-connected systems over certain sizes
• Listed Buildings: Special consent required in conservation areas

MCS-certified installers like MakeMyHouseGreen typically handle necessary notifications and compliance requirements.

Professional vs DIY Shed Solar Installation

While DIY installation is possible, professional installation ensures:

• MCS certification for SEG eligibility
• Building Regulations compliance
• Insurance and warranty protection
• Optimal system performance and safety

At MakeMyHouseGreen, we follow all of these regulations, including MCS certification, and offer tailored support, aftercare, and warranties to ensure your solar panels work their best for years to come. 

Costs and Financial Benefits of Shed Solar Panels

Average Cost of Shed Solar Panel Systems

Shed solar installations in the UK typically cost £2,000-£6,000 for a complete system, depending on your location and system size. Factors affecting cost include:

• System size 
• Scaffolding and access requirements
• Equipment costs and delivery
• Structural modifications for compliance

ROI and Energy Savings

Most shed solar systems in the UK pay for themselves within 6-10 years through energy savings and SEG payments. With typical electricity prices of 25-35p per kWh, a well-positioned system can save £400-£600 annually, with higher savings in southern England due to better solar irradiance.

You can determine exactly how much solar panels will cost for your property and see how much you’d save each year using our solar calculator.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Dealing with Shed Roof Limitations

Challenge: Limited roof space on typical UK sheds

Solution: Use high-efficiency panels to maximise power generation per square metre

Challenge: Poor roof orientation or shading

Solution: Consider ground-mounted systems

Challenge: Structural limitations 

Solution: Reinforce framing or use lightweight panel options

Planning and Building Regulations

UK solar installations typically benefit from Permitted Development Rights, meaning that no planning permission is required for most domestic installations. However, a few conditions must still be met:

• Panels must not protrude more than 200mm from roof surface
• The panels should be sited to minimise visual impact
• Special considerations for listed buildings and conservation areas

Building Regulations may apply if structural modifications are required or for electrical work not covered by minor works exemptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much weight can a typical UK shed roof support for solar panels? Most well-built garden buildings can support the 10-20kg per square metre that solar panels add, but professional assessment ensures safety,

Do I need planning permission for solar panels on my shed? Generally no, thanks to Permitted Development Rights, though restrictions apply in conservation areas and for listed buildings. Always check with your local planning authority.

What size solar system can I put on my shed? System size depends on roof area and structural capacity. Most garden sheds can accommodate 2-6 panels, generating up to 2,000 kWh annually depending on location and orientation.

Can I connect shed solar panels to my home's electrical system? Yes, grid-connected systems on a shed can integrate with your home's consumer unit and serve as an additional energy source for your home.

How much money can I save with shed solar panels? Savings depend on your electricity usage, SEG rates, and whether your shed's panels are connected to a larger system on the roof of your home. Homeowners could save £400-£600 annually.

Ready to Get Solar on Your Shed?

Installing solar panels on your shed roof is an excellent way to maximize your property's solar potential. With proper planning, professional installation, and quality equipment, you can transform your shed from a simple storage space into an energy-generating asset.

Get started today with a free assessment of your shed's solar potential. Our expert team will evaluate your structure, discuss your energy goals, and create a customised solar design based on your needs. 

To begin your journey, use our solar calculator for an estimate or book a call with us directly.