| Representative city | Leeds (53.80 N, 1.55 W) |
|---|---|
| PVGIS yearly output per 1 kWp | 947.12 kWh (35 degree pitch, south-facing, 14% losses) |
| Distribution network operator | Northern Powergrid (North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire) |
| G98 type-test paperwork | Form C (Type Test Verification Report) is part of the G98 documents |
| VAT on installation | 0% until 31 March 2027, then 5% (Great Britain) |
What to test in a Yorkshire and Humber quote
A quote is only as good as its assumptions, because every figure on it rests on one. In Yorkshire and the Humber, three checks catch most problems. These are the yield figure, the grid steps and the scope. We cover each below.
This page gives general guidance, not regional prices. We do not publish them because we cannot source a fair figure. Prices vary, so get written quotes and use our guide to comparing solar quotes.
Generation: Leeds as the benchmark
We used Leeds as the representative city. The European Commission’s PVGIS v5.2 tool models 947.12 kWh a year for each 1 kWp of panels. The inputs were 53.80 N, 1.55 W, a 35 degree pitch, south-facing panels and 14% system losses.
For example, a roof that holds ten 400 W panels is a 4 kWp array. On the same assumptions that models near 3,790 kWh a year. This is arithmetic, not a guarantee.
Panel count is the next question, since it drives both cost and yield. Our post on how many solar panels you need helps you match the array to your usage. So read it before you accept an installer’s sizing.
Reading the yield line in your quote
Look for three numbers on the quote: the array size in kWp, the expected yearly output in kWh and the cost. Then divide the cost by the kWp to get a price per kWp. That gives you one figure to set beside the others, because quotes come in different sizes.
Next, divide the expected output by the kWp. For Leeds, anything far above the 947 kWh benchmark needs an explanation. For instance, the installer may assume a better pitch than yours. Also, a quote that says nothing about shade is worth questioning.
Our free checker on the home page turns these numbers into a price per kWp and a scope checklist. It runs in your browser, so nothing is sent anywhere.
One operator for most of the region
Northern Powergrid describes its area as the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire. The ENA guide lists Yorkshire (meter numbers starting with 23) under Northern Powergrid, so most Yorkshire and Humber homes deal with one network operator. That keeps the process simple.
The Energy Networks Association (ENA) sets the G98 and G99 rules that Northern Powergrid follows. G98 is for fully type-tested systems up to 16 A per phase. In plain terms, that is 3.68 kW on a single phase, while three phases allow 11.04 kW.
Under G98, the installer fits first and informs the operator within 28 days of commissioning. The ENA says this is a legal requirement. Also, the G98 paperwork includes a type test verification report, known as Form C, which records the equipment’s type testing.
Above that limit, G99 applies and you must apply for approval before connecting. Our post on G98 and G99 applications explained covers both routes.
When you compare quotes, ask which route the installer expects. Then ask who pays any fee, because costs should be clear before you sign. A trustworthy installer will say so up front.
Planning permission and older homes
The Planning Portal says solar on homes may be permitted development, with no need to apply for permission. It also says important limits and conditions must be met. In 2023 the government added that homes with flat roofs could fit panels without permission.
If your home is listed or in a conservation area, check before you sign, because the usual permitted development rights may not apply. Our post on planning permission for solar panels lists the cases where you should check first.
Funding and tax in England
Funding is narrow, so check each route.
- VAT. HMRC says the 0% rate applies to installing energy-saving materials, including solar panels and batteries, until 31 March 2027. After that, the reduced rate of 5% returns.
- Warm Homes: Local Grant. GOV.UK says it is for 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. Details may change.
Our guide to solar panel grants and VAT goes through the rules. Smart Export Guarantee payments cover what you earn for exported power.
Humber and coastal homes
If you live near the Humber estuary or the coast, fixings matter. Ask the installer how the array is fixed to the roof. Also ask what the warranty says about corrosion.
We cannot give a regional rule here, since we did not find a primary source for one. Instead, treat it as a question to put to each installer in writing.
Looking after the system
You should know what is covered. Our upcoming post on solar panel maintenance and cleaning explains the basics.
Comparing quotes in practice
First, request the same scope from each installer, including scaffolding, inverter and grid notification. Then compare cost per kWp and modelled yield together, because a low price can hide a small system. Finally, check warranties and the installer’s certification.
If you want help, use the free quote form. We pass enquiries to MCS-certified installers, although we are not an installer.
Next door
Some homes sit near a regional boundary. In that case, compare with solar quotes in the North West and what to check in the South East.
What we could not source
We left out regional prices, installer counts and any figure without a primary source.