How Much Electricity Does a Solar Panel Really Produce in the North of the UK?

What is solar PV, and how does it work?

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels convert daylight into electricity. Even on a cloudy day in Lincolnshire or Derbyshire, these panels quietly get to work, helping you power your home and reduce reliance on the grid.

With hundreds of solar PV installations across Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire, and beyond, Wright Renewables has seen the real-world performance of solar panels across all types of roofs, from townhouses in Worksop to barns in the Peak District.

👉 Find out more about our Solar PV services

‍

So, how much electricity does a solar panel produce in the UK?

In good old Blighty, a typical solar panel (rated at 400W) generates around 300 to 450 kWh per year — depending on its angle, direction, shading, and of course, our famously unpredictable weather.

Most domestic solar systems in the UK range from 3kW to 6kW in total capacity. Here’s a breakdown of what that could mean for your home:

System SizePanels (approx.)Annual Output (kWh)% of Average Household Needs3kW8 panels2,600 – 3,000 kWh~65%4kW10 panels3,500 – 4,000 kWh~90%6kW15 panels5,200 – 6,000 kWh>100% (with export)

“In homes across Worksop, Lincoln, Sheffield, and Mansfield, we typically see 4kW systems covering the vast majority of electricity needs. With battery storage, the impact is even greater.”— Lee Rolfe, Managing Director of Wright Renewables”

‍

What affects solar electricity generation?

Several factors determine exactly how much electricity your solar panels will generate:

• Roof direction – South-facing is best
• Angle of installation – 30–40° performs well in our climate
• Shading – Trees, chimneys, or neighbouring buildings can reduce efficiency
• Local weather – Our region gets a decent amount of solar radiation year-round
• Panel quality – Wright Renewables only uses Tier 1 solar panels for long-term performance

✅ Wright Renewables only installs high-performance Tier 1 panels, ensuring long-term reliability with industry-leading warranties.

‍

Real-world example: What does that output mean?

Let’s say your solar PV system generates 3,500 kWh per year. That’s enough to:

• Run a fridge-freezer (300 kWh/year)
• Power a washing machine (~500 kWh/year)
• Charge an electric vehicle for ~10,000 miles (2,000 kWh/year)
• Cover your TV, lighting, and small appliances with energy to spare

Combine it with a solar battery, and you can store unused energy for evening use, further increasing savings.

🔋 Read more about battery storage with solar

‍

Solar panel output in winter vs summer

It’s no surprise that solar panels are more productive in summer, but modern systems are still effective year-round. Even in December and January, you’ll likely see generation that offsets background usage like fridges, lighting, and routers.

🔧 “We often remind our customers that solar works by light, not heat. As long as it’s daylight, your panels are generating,”
— Lee Rolfe, Managing Director at Wright Renewables

‍

Is solar worth it in the UK?

Absolutely. Here's why:

• Energy bills are only going one way — up.
• The Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) lets you earn money from surplus electricity.
• Solar panels typically pay for themselves in 6–10 years, and last well over 25.

We’ve helped dozens of homeowners in Worksop, Mansfield, Doncaster, and Retford go solar, and the feedback is always the same: “Why didn’t we do it sooner?”

Read about how one customer from near the worksop area lowered their bill so much they practically didnt pay anything for 6 months

‍

Ready to find out what your roof could generate?

Book your free solar energy survey with one of our local solar installers in:

• Nottinghamshire
• South Yorkshire
• Derbyshire
• Lincolnshire

We’ll visit your property, assess your roof, and create a tailored solar energy report showing:

• Projected generation
• Estimated savings
• Storage options
• Your likely payback period

📞 Call us today on 01909 813456 or use the form below

‍

‍