Solar panels and battery storage for Edinburgh homes
Edinburgh is on the drier east side of Scotland and generally receives more sunshine than Glasgow, which helps solar output. However, much of the city centre is a conservation area or World Heritage Site with many listed buildings, so planning consent is often needed before installing panels.
Last updated: 5 November 2026.
Reviewed by the Scottish Energy Efficiency team.
How does solar work in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh’s east coast position gives it more daylight hours than the west of Scotland, particularly in spring and summer. Solar panels generate from daylight, so even overcast days produce useful output. A battery maximises savings by storing surplus solar for evening use and charging cheaply overnight in winter.
Edinburgh’s housing includes tenement flats in areas like Marchmont, Leith and Newington, suburban villas in Morningside and Barnton, and modern developments around the city bypass. Tenement roofs are typically shared, while suburban houses have simpler individual roofs.
SP Energy Networks is the distribution network operator for Edinburgh. Your installer handles the network notification as part of the installation.
What planning rules apply in Edinburgh?
Much of central Edinburgh is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and many buildings are listed. Solar panels on listed buildings or in conservation areas usually need planning consent. Suburban houses outside conservation areas are generally permitted development, subject to the usual exceptions.
Edinburgh City Council’s planning team can confirm your property’s status. If you live in a conservation area, ask about panel placement on rear-facing slopes, which are often treated more favourably.
Tenement flats need agreement from other owners before any roof work. Our survey covers roof access, ownership and planning considerations.
How do you get a solar quote in Edinburgh?
Fill in our quote form with your Edinburgh postcode and we will model the savings for your roof, usage and tariff. We carry out a no-obligation survey and send a written quotation from our MCS-certified installation partner. Call us on 0141 230 0198 to talk first.
We serve homeowners across Edinburgh and the Lothians, including Livingston, Musselburgh and Dalkeith.
Frequently asked questions
Do you install solar panels in Edinburgh?
Yes. We serve homeowners across Edinburgh and the Lothians, and installation is carried out through our MCS-certified partners.
Can I add a battery to my existing solar panels in Edinburgh?
Usually, yes. Most systems can take a battery later through a hybrid inverter or a separate battery inverter. A survey confirms what your setup supports.
Is finance available for solar installation in Edinburgh?
Interest-free credit up to £30,000 is available, subject to status and affordability. Terms and conditions apply. Solar Savings Scotland is not a lender. Ask us to include finance options in your written quotation.
How do I get a solar quote in Edinburgh?
Call us on 0141 230 0198 or fill in the quote form. We model the savings, carry out a no-obligation survey, then send a written quotation from our MCS-certified partner.
Solar panels in nearby areas
How do you get a solar savings quote?
Fill in the form and we will model the arithmetic and send a written quotation from our MCS-certified partner.