| Representative city | Birmingham (52.48 N, 1.90 W) |
|---|---|
| PVGIS yearly output per 1 kWp | 968.65 kWh (35 degree pitch, south-facing, 14% losses) |
| Distribution network operator | National Grid Electricity Distribution (West Midlands) |
| G98 single premises | Fit first, notify within 28 days of commissioning |
| VAT on installation | 0% until 31 March 2027, then 5% (Great Britain) |
Reading a West Midlands quote
A quote can look complete and still leave out the grid steps or the scope. In the West Midlands, a few checks help. They cover output, the network operator and what the price includes. Because each one is easy to test, it pays to check them early.
This page does not list regional prices, since we could not source a fair figure. Prices vary, so get written quotes. Our guide to comparing solar quotes shows how to line them up.
Generation: Birmingham
Birmingham is our representative city. The European Commission’s PVGIS v5.2 tool models 968.65 kWh a year for each 1 kWp. The inputs were 52.48 N, 1.90 W, a 35 degree pitch, south-facing panels and 14% system losses.
A 4 kWp array would model near 3,875 kWh a year. That is arithmetic on a benchmark, not a promise, but it gives you a fair test of an installer’s claim.
Next, think about size. Our post on how many solar panels you need helps you match the array to your use. So read it before you accept a proposed panel count. Also compare the panel wattage, because a higher wattage means fewer panels for the same kWp.
One operator and two kinds of project
National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) lists the West Midlands among its regions. The Energy Networks Association (ENA) guide agrees. It ties meter numbers starting with 14 to the West Midlands NGED area.
G98 is the simple route. It covers fully type-tested systems up to 16 A per phase, which is 3.68 kW single phase or 11.04 kW three phase. National Grid says the installer may fit first, then must notify within 28 days of commissioning.
The ENA draws a line between one home and many. For multiple premises, you need approval from the operator before you connect. That matters if a landlord or housing group is fitting several roofs at once.
Above the G98 size, G99 applies. In that case the operator must approve the connection before it goes live. Our post on G98 and G99 applications explained sets out both routes.
Whichever route applies, ask your installer for proof that they filed it, because proof protects you if the notice goes missing.
Planning permission in England
The Planning Portal says solar on homes in England may be permitted development, with important limits and conditions. In 2023 the government said homes with flat roofs could install panels without planning permission. It also said the rights remain subject to conditions, including in conservation areas.
So if your Birmingham or Black Country home is listed or in a conservation area, check first. Ask the installer to confirm the answer in writing, because a verbal answer is hard to rely on later.
Funding and tax that apply in England
No general solar grant exists. Instead, check these routes, because each has its own rules.
- VAT. HMRC says the zero rate applies to installing energy-saving materials, including solar panels and batteries, until 31 March 2027. From 1 April 2027 the reduced rate of 5% applies.
- Warm Homes: Local Grant. GOV.UK says it supports low-income households in England with an EPC between D and G in privately owned homes. Councils deliver it.
- Loans. The January 2026 Warm Homes Plan promises government-backed zero and low interest loans for solar. Check the terms when they open.
Our guide to solar panel grants and VAT explains each one. Smart Export Guarantee payments cover what you earn for exports.
Questions to put to each installer
Before you sign, ask three plain questions. First, which panels and inverter are in the price, and what are their warranties? Second, who will file the grid notification, and when? Third, what is not included, such as scaffolding or roof repairs?
Because answers differ between firms, write them down. Then set them beside the PVGIS benchmark for Birmingham. Also, keep every written answer with your quotes. Then, if something changes later, you can point to what was agreed. This is especially useful for the scope, the warranty terms and the start date. If a quote is far cheaper, check what was left out. Our free checker on the home page helps you turn each quote into a price per kWp and a scope checklist.
Finally, ask for the calculation behind any payback claim, because every payback figure rests on assumptions. A clear quote shows the yield, the price and the assumed value of each kWh. If those inputs are missing, the headline number is hard to trust.
Resale and upkeep
Panels can come up when you sell, because buyers and solicitors may ask for the paperwork. Keep the certificates, warranties and proof of grid notification together. Our post on selling a house with solar panels lists what to keep.
Also, plan for upkeep. You should know what is covered. Our upcoming post on solar panel maintenance and cleaning explains the basics.
Comparing quotes in practice
First, ask every installer for the same scope. Then compare the cost per kWp, the modelled yield and the warranty terms. Finally, check that each installer is MCS-certified.
If you want help, use the free quote form. We pass enquiries to MCS-certified installers, although we are not an installer.
Neighbouring regions
For homes near the border, see solar quotes in the East Midlands and what to check in the East of England.
What we left out
We left out regional prices and installer counts because we could not source them.