Are solar panels worth it in the Midlands?
While the South of England often gets the spotlight, the East Midlands has a secret advantage that makes it an unexpectedly ideal place for solar panels. From period properties to new-build estates, solar is becoming a mainstream choice across the region, with many areas outpacing the national average for solar adoption.
In this no-nonsense guide, we break down the real data – from how much sunshine the region actually gets, to why more and more Midlands households are choosing to power their homes with solar.
Do solar panels work in the midlands?
It’s a common misconception that solar only makes sense in the far South, but sunshine isn’t just for Cornwall. In fact, the majority of the Midlands receives higher-than-average levels of solar irradiance – the sunlight needed to generate power. And thanks to modern tech, solar panels don’t need blazing sun to perform – they generate power from daylight, even on overcast days.
In the Midlands, that solar potential is being put to use. When you look at the UK’s photovoltaic power potential map (figure 1) side by side with MCS solar installation data (figure 2), a clear pattern emerges: the areas with the most sunshine hours are often the same ones with the highest solar adoption rates. In fact, according to current records, there are over 17,000 more MCS certified solar installations in the East Midlands than the West Midlands.
So yes – solar panels absolutely work in the Midlands, particularly in the East Midlands which recieves slightly more sun.
Here’s a few reasons why Midland homeowners are installing solar:
- Consistently high irradiance: large parts of the region receive above-average daylight year-round.
- Rural roof space: With more detached homes, barns and business units, areas like Northamptonshire and Lincolnshire have ideal conditions for installing panels.
- Power resilience: In places prone to flooding, solar panels paired with battery storage offer vital backup power during grid disruptions. For homeowners in high-risk zones, that offers peace of mind as well as long-term value, affordability, and marketability to their home.
- Local support and community momentum: From ambitious net zero targets to local funding schemes, many local authorities in the Midlands are investing in clean technology as part of their wider sustainability plans. For example, North Kesteven District Council in Lincolnshire have an ambition to be net zero by 2030, and they chose Good Energy to install their solar. For more, you can read the details here.
To learn more about solar panels, how they work, and their key advantages, you can read our blog here.
The biggest reason why solar performs well in the East Midlands?
Solar panels work best in mild, steady conditions – not in extreme heat or wild weather. And the highest temperatures, experienced more frequently in southern regions, can sometimes actually reduce efficiency and degrade panel lifespan, decreasing their output.
That’s why the East Midlands’ temperate climate is ideal: its stable conditions support a more consistent output, helping your set-up last longer and perform more efficiently year after year. Plus, because much of the region is low-lying and sheltered, panels are less exposed to strong winds or coastal weather too. That long-term predictability is exactly what you want when it comes to making a long-term investment.
Can you save money with solar panels in the Midlands?
With the right installer and export tariff, Midlands homes can see significant returns on their investment. According to our estimates, a typical 10-panel solar and battery system could save homeowners around £830 a year in energy bills. With energy prices remaining unpredictable, solar offers a hedge against future price spikes and a sensible route to long-term savings. What’s more, with 0% VAT on domestic installations until 2027, there’s never been a better time to make the switch.
So, are solar panels worth it in the Midlands?
The Midlands is one of the UK’s most underrated solar panel sweet spots. Whether you’re in Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire or Nottinghamshire, solar panels offer a clear path to savings, energy independence and a lower-carbon future.
If you’re wondering whether your home is a good fit, our experts can help. Good Energy offers free, no-obligation quotes tailored to your property, so you can see exactly what solar could do for you.
