Information Notice
This comparison uses information from the Energy Saving Trust, government publications, and industry sources. We are an independent information service, not installers. Always consult MCS-certified installers for advice specific to your property.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Solar Panels | Heat Pumps |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Generates electricity from sunlight | Provides heating and hot water |
| Typical cost | £6,000-£10,000 (4kW system, 0% VAT) | £7,000-£14,000 before BUS grant (source: EST) |
| Main grant | 0% VAT (all residential, source: HMRC) | Boiler Upgrade Scheme: £7,500 (source: gov.uk) |
| What it replaces | Grid electricity purchases | Gas boiler or other heating system |
| Best season | Summer (longest daylight hours) | Winter (when heating is needed most) |
| Installation time | 1-2 days typically | 2-5 days typically, plus radiator upgrades if needed |
Sources: Energy Saving Trust, HMRC (VAT), gov.uk (Boiler Upgrade Scheme). Costs are indicative and vary by property.
Which Should You Install First?
Prioritise Solar Panels If...
- Your electricity bills are your main concern
- Your current boiler is relatively new and working well
- You have good roof space and orientation (south or south-west facing)
- You want to reduce running costs before installing a heat pump later
- You have an electric vehicle or plan to get one
Prioritise a Heat Pump If...
- Your boiler is old and needs replacing soon
- Your heating costs are your biggest energy expense
- You can access the £7,500 Boiler Upgrade Scheme grant
- Your home is well-insulated (heat pumps work best in insulated properties)
- Your roof is not suitable for solar panels (north-facing, heavily shaded)
Combining Solar Panels and a Heat Pump
According to the Energy Saving Trust, combining solar panels with a heat pump can significantly reduce both your electricity bills and carbon emissions. The solar panels generate electricity that can power the heat pump, reducing or eliminating the running cost of your heating system during sunny periods.
The seasonal mismatch is worth understanding: solar panels generate most electricity in summer when heating demand is lowest, while heat pumps work hardest in winter when solar generation is reduced. Adding battery storage can help, but it cannot fully bridge this gap.
Many homeowners install one technology first and add the other later. Installing solar panels first can reduce the running cost of a future heat pump. Installing a heat pump first makes sense if your boiler needs replacing urgently.
Combined Benefits
Lower Running Costs
Solar electricity powers the heat pump, reducing or eliminating the electricity cost of heating your home during daylight hours
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Both technologies displace fossil fuel use, and when combined they can make a home close to carbon-neutral for energy
Energy Independence
Generating your own electricity and heating reduces dependence on gas and grid electricity prices
Check Your Eligibility for Funded Installation
Some households may qualify for subsidised solar panels or heat pump installation through government schemes.
Key Eligibility Factors:
- Low-income household
- Property EPC rating D-G
- Owner-occupier or private tenant
Get comprehensive property analysis with grant recommendations, savings estimates, and installer connections.
Full Property AnalysisGet Quotes for Solar Panels or Heat Pumps
Connect with MCS-certified installers who can advise on the best approach for your property and budget.
Up to 3 MCS-certified installers. No obligation quotes.
How to Decide
Review Your Bills
Look at your electricity and gas bills separately. Which is the larger cost? That suggests which technology to prioritise.
Check Your Boiler
If your boiler is approaching end of life, replacing it with a heat pump (and claiming the BUS grant) may be the priority.
Assess Your Roof
South-facing roof with minimal shading? Solar panels will perform well. North-facing or heavily shaded? A heat pump may be the better investment.
Get Expert Advice
An MCS-certified installer can assess your property and recommend the best approach for your specific circumstances.
Related Guides
Solar Panels Guide
Complete introduction to solar panels, how they work, and panel types available.
Read guide →Heat Pumps Guide
Everything you need to know about air source and ground source heat pumps in the UK.
Read guide →£7,500 Heat Pump Grant
The Boiler Upgrade Scheme offers £7,500 towards a heat pump. Check eligibility and how to apply.
Check eligibility →Free Insulation Schemes
Insulate first for maximum benefit from both solar panels and heat pumps. See what free schemes are available.
Check eligibility →Improve Your EPC Rating
Both solar panels and heat pumps improve your EPC rating. See what improvements make the biggest difference.
Read guide →Get Expert Advice for Your Home
MCS-certified installers can assess your property and recommend the best approach for your circumstances.