Solar Panels in Preston
Squirrel Energy installs solar panels, battery storage and EV chargers across Preston and Central Lancashire. From terraced homes to large commercial rooftops, we design systems that deliver real savings.
What we install in Preston
Quality installations for homes, businesses and farms across Lancashire
Solar Panels
Roof-mounted and ground-mounted solar PV for homes and businesses in Preston. We use premium panels from AIKO, JA Solar and Risen.
Battery Storage
Store your solar energy and use it in the evening. We install Sunsynk, SolaX and Dyness batteries — all with 10-year warranties.
EV Charging
OZEV-approved EV charger installation for homes and businesses. Pair with solar to charge your car with free, clean energy.
Commercial Solar
Large-scale solar for businesses, warehouses and farms across Lancashire. Free energy audit included with every commercial enquiry.
Why choose Squirrel Energy in Preston?
We're a local, independent solar installer based in Padiham, Lancashire — just a short drive from Preston. We've been installing solar panels across Lancashire for years, and every installation is carried out by our NAPIT-registered electricians.
"Squirrel Energy were professional from start to finish. The system was installed cleanly and on time, and the monitoring app is brilliant."
— Verified customer, Lancashire
How it works
From first contact to generating your own energy — here's what to expect
Free energy audit
We assess your roof, energy consumption and goals — no obligation, no hard sell.
Detailed quote
You receive a written quote with system specs, projected generation and payback period.
Professional installation
Our NAPIT-registered team installs your system cleanly and efficiently, usually in one day.
Start generating
We set up your monitoring app and register your system with your SEG tariff.
We also cover nearby areas
Squirrel Energy installs solar panels across Lancashire and beyond
Solar panels in Preston — what you need to know
Preston and the wider Lancashire area receives an average of around 1,100–1,200 peak sun hours per year — enough to make solar panels a sound financial investment for most homes and businesses. A typical 4 kWp domestic system in Lancashire generates approximately 3,400–3,800 kWh annually, covering a significant proportion of an average household's electricity consumption.
With electricity prices remaining high, the payback period for a well-designed solar installation in Preston is typically 6–9 years for a domestic system and 4–7 years for a commercial installation. Adding battery storage reduces that further by allowing you to use more of the energy you generate rather than exporting it at a lower rate.
Squirrel Energy is based in Padiham — a short drive from Preston — so we can offer fast survey appointments and responsive aftercare. All our installations are carried out by our own NAPIT-registered electricians; we do not subcontract.
Solar incentives available in Preston
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
Export unused solar electricity back to the grid and receive a payment per kWh. Most major energy suppliers offer SEG tariffs. We register your system on your behalf.
0% VAT on solar installations
Solar panels, battery storage and EV chargers installed at domestic properties are zero-rated for VAT — a saving of 20% compared to most home improvement work.
ECO4 and Great British Insulation Scheme
Eligible households in Lancashire may qualify for funded energy efficiency measures. We can advise whether your property qualifies during your free energy audit.
Commercial capital allowances
Businesses installing solar can claim capital allowances on the full cost of the system, reducing corporation tax liability in the year of installation.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions from customers in Preston and Lancashire
How much do solar panels cost in Preston?
A typical domestic solar installation in Preston costs between £5,000 and £9,000 depending on system size, roof type and whether battery storage is included. A 4 kWp system without battery storage typically costs £5,500–£7,000 installed. We provide a detailed written quote with full assumptions — no hidden costs.
Are solar panels worth it in Lancashire?
Yes. Despite the perception that the North of England is cloudy, Lancashire receives sufficient solar irradiance to make solar panels financially viable. Most domestic customers see payback within 6–9 years and enjoy 25+ years of reduced electricity bills. With battery storage, self-consumption rates of 70–90% are achievable.
Do I need planning permission for solar panels in Preston?
In most cases, no. Solar panels on a pitched roof are permitted development in England, meaning no planning application is required. Exceptions include listed buildings, properties in conservation areas, and some flat-roof installations. We check permitted development rules as part of your free survey.
How long does a solar installation take in Preston?
Most domestic installations are completed in a single day. Larger commercial systems or those requiring scaffolding may take 2–3 days. From initial survey to installation, the typical lead time is 4–8 weeks depending on our schedule and any DNO notification requirements.
Can I add battery storage to my existing solar panels in Preston?
In most cases, yes. We can retrofit battery storage to most existing solar PV systems. We assess your current inverter and wiring during a free survey and advise on the most cost-effective upgrade path. Sunsynk, SolaX, Dyness and Fogstar batteries are all compatible with a wide range of existing systems.
Is Squirrel Energy MCS certified?
Yes. Squirrel Energy is MCS certified, which is a requirement for installations that qualify for the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). Our electricians are NAPIT registered, and all installations meet the requirements of BS 7671 and MCS 012.
Get a free solar quote in Preston
Our team covers Preston and all surrounding areas. We'll visit your property, assess your roof and energy use, and give you a detailed written quote — completely free and with no obligation.