Solar Panels in Farnham, Surrey
Farnham is one of the larger towns in Surrey with a population of 40,600. With a solar yield of 980 kWh/kWp and 1,600+ sunshine hours per year, solar energy is a strong investment for homeowners here. A typical 4kWp system generates approximately 3,920 kWh annually, covering 103% of average household electricity use. With 0% VAT on installation, the typical cost is £5,000–£8,000 for a 3-4kWp system with payback in 6–8 years.
Solar energy output for Farnham, Surrey
| Solar Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Solar Yield | 980 kWh/kWp |
| 4kWp System Output | 3,920 kWh/yr |
| Sunshine Hours | 1,600 hrs/yr |
| Est. Annual Savings | £1098+ |
| Household Coverage | 103% of avg use |
Solar yield calculated for Farnham (51.21°N, 0.80°W) using PVGIS satellite data. Actual output varies by roof orientation, shading, and system specification.
Farnham at a Glance
| Area Data | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | 40,600 (Census 2021) |
| Elevation | 65 metres |
| Postcode Area | GU9 |
| Location | Inland |
| Coordinates | 51.2140°N, 0.8000°W |
Population and housing data: ONS Census 2021.
Farnham: Local Solar Energy Profile
Farnham is a large town in Surrey with a population of 40,600 (ONS Census 2021). The postcode area for Farnham is GU9. You'll need your full postcode when getting quotes from MCS-certified installers. Based on satellite data for this location, a 4kWp solar system generates approximately 3,920 kWh per year (980 kWh/kWp). Surrey ranks #10 in the UK for solar yield, making Farnham an excellent location for solar panels.
How solar panels pay off in Farnham
Save on Electricity Bills
Homeowners in Farnham can save an estimated £1098+ per year on electricity with a 4kWp solar system generating 3,900 kWh annually.
0% VAT on Installation
Residential solar panel installations are zero-rated for VAT in the UK, saving you hundreds of pounds on a typical system.
MCS Certified Quality
All installations use MCS-certified installers, ensuring high standards and eligibility for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG).
Earn from Excess Energy
Sell surplus electricity at 3-15p/kWh through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Your energy supplier pays you for every unit exported to the grid.
Top Solar Area in the UK
Surrey ranks #10 in the UK for solar yield with 975 kWh/kWp. Homes in Farnham benefit from some of the best solar conditions in the country.
25+ Year Lifespan
A system installed in Farnham today will generate clean electricity for 25-30 years with minimal maintenance.
What savings can Farnham homeowners expect?
Homeowners in Farnham, Surrey benefit from 0% VAT on solar panel installations. Typical system costs for 2026:
| System Size | Typical Cost (incl. 0% VAT) | Est. Payback |
|---|---|---|
| 2 kWp | £3,000 - £4,500 | 7-8 years |
| 3-4 kWp | £5,000 - £8,000 | 6-8 years |
| 5-6 kWp | £7,000 - £10,000 | 6-7 years |
Solar Installers in Surrey
MCS-certified solar panel installers covering Surrey.
Solar Panels in Areas Near Farnham
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Common Questions About Going Solar in Farnham
How much do solar panels cost in Farnham?
A 3-4kWp system in Farnham typically costs £5,000-£8,000 with 0% VAT. The system generates approximately 3,900 kWh/year, paying for itself in 6-8 years.
Can I sell excess solar electricity?
Yes. Under the UK's Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), you can sell surplus electricity at 3-15p/kWh. You need a smart meter and an MCS-certified installation. Your energy supplier pays you for every unit exported to the grid.
Are solar panels worth it in Farnham?
Yes. With estimated savings of £1098+ per year, 0% VAT, and export income of 3-15p/kWh through the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), a solar system in Farnham pays for itself in 6-8 years and lasts 25+ years.
What is the payback period for solar panels in Farnham?
With a cost of £5,000-£8,000 (0% VAT) and savings of £1098+ per year plus SEG export income, a typical solar system in Farnham pays for itself in 6-8 years. After payback, you get 20+ years of near-free electricity.
Is my roof suitable for solar panels in Farnham?
Most roofs are suitable. You need at least 15-20 m² of unshaded roof space for a typical 4kWp system (10 panels). South, east, or west-facing roofs work well. Your installer will assess your roof's orientation, angle, and structural suitability during a site survey.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
Most residential solar installations in the UK are permitted development and don't require planning permission, provided panels don't project more than 200mm from the roof surface. Listed buildings and conservation areas may have additional requirements.
What is the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)?
The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) requires licensed energy suppliers to offer a tariff to small-scale generators for electricity exported to the grid. Rates are typically 3-15p/kWh. You need a smart meter and an MCS-certified installation to be eligible.
Sources
- MCS — Microgeneration Certification Scheme
- MCS — Find a Certified Installer
- Ofgem — Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
- PVGIS — EU Joint Research Centre (solar irradiance data)
- ONS — Census 2021
- Met Office — Climate Data
Last updated: March 2026
Fact-checked by John Rooney, Solar Energy Editor. Editorial policy
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