A heat pump with solar panels can be a good combination, because your solar panels can supply some of the electricity the heat pump uses and reduce how much power you need to buy from the grid. However, you do not need solar panels for a heat pump to work effectively, and solar will not normally power it completely, especially during winter. See how the two systems work together in our guide to running a heat pump with solar panels.
Whether you should install both depends on your home, budget, heating needs and existing energy setup. This guide explains whether the combination is worth it, the role of battery storage, which system to install first, costs and grants, and what to consider if you already have solar or a heat pump. The Energy Saving Trust also notes that heat pumps will still need grid electricity when solar generation is low, making the winter mismatch an important part of the decision. energysavingtrust.org.uk
Is a Heat Pump with Solar Worth It in the UK?
Yes, a heat pump with solar can be worth it if your home is suitable for both systems. Solar can provide some of the electricity your heat pump uses, helping reduce how much electricity you buy from the grid.
When Does the Combination Make Sense?
It makes the most sense when you have a suitable roof, an efficient heat pump and enough electricity use to benefit from solar generation. If you are comparing the investment, see Are Solar Panels Worth It in the UK?.
When Might It Not Be Worth It?
It may be less worthwhile if your roof is heavily shaded, you plan to move soon, or the upfront cost is high compared with your expected savings. Solar also produces less electricity in winter, when your heat pump usually needs the most power.
How Well Can Solar Panels Power a Heat Pump?
Solar panels can power part of a heat pump’s electricity demand, but they are unlikely to cover it completely throughout the year. How much they contribute depends on your solar system, heat pump demand and when the electricity is generated.
What Happens in Winter?
In winter, solar generation falls while heat pump demand rises, so you will usually rely more on grid electricity. This seasonal mismatch is why solar should be viewed as a way to reduce heat pump running costs rather than power it entirely.
Do You Need a Battery with Solar and a Heat Pump?
No, you do not need a battery to use solar panels with a heat pump. However, a battery can store surplus solar electricity for later and let you use cheaper off-peak electricity when solar generation is low.
This can be particularly useful in winter, when your heat pump needs more electricity but your solar panels generate less.
Should You Get Solar Panels or a Heat Pump First?
There is no single best order for every home. If your heating system still works and reducing electricity costs is your priority, solar may make sense first. If your boiler needs replacing, the heat pump may be the more urgent investment.
If you plan to install both, consider the future heat pump when designing your solar system. See How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?.
How Much Do Solar Panels and a Heat Pump Cost Together?
A typical solar panel system costs around £6,100, while an air source heat pump costs around £12,000, giving a rough combined cost of £18,100 before grants. Actual costs depend on your property and system design. Energy Saving Trust
Grants, Savings and Payback
In England and Wales, the Boiler Upgrade Scheme currently provides £7,500 towards eligible air-to-water heat pumps, rising to £9,000 for certain eligible off-gas-grid homes replacing oil or LPG heating until March 2027. The grant does not cover solar panels. GOV.UK
Your savings and payback will depend on your energy use, system performance and tariff, so there is no single payback period that applies to every home. Energy Saving Trust
What If You Already Have Solar Panels or a Heat Pump?
You can add either system later, so you do not need to install solar panels and a heat pump at the same time.
Already have solar? A heat pump can use some of the electricity your panels generate, although you will still rely more on the grid in winter.
Already have a heat pump? Adding solar can reduce grid electricity use, particularly when your panels are generating during the day.
How to Decide If Solar and a Heat Pump Are Right for Your Home
Start by looking at your home, energy use and budget, rather than assuming you need both systems.
Check | What to Consider |
Roof | Space, orientation and shading |
Heating | Heat loss and heat pump suitability |
Electricity use | How much power you use and when |
Budget | Installation cost and available support |
Future plans | Battery, EV or other electricity demand |
For heat pump installation, you can also find certified installers through MCS.
Understand Your Solar and Heat Pump Energy Use with EnergieBee
Before investing, it helps to understand how your home actually uses electricity. EnergieBee can help you monitor consumption patterns, solar generation and changes in energy use after home improvements.
With EnergieBee Energy, you can compare your real energy data over time and make more informed decisions about solar, a heat pump or battery storage.
Track Your Heating Performance
Monitor energy use and heating changes to understand your home's performance
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Solar Panels Work with a Heat Pump?
Yes. Solar panels can supply some of the electricity a heat pump uses, reducing the amount you need to buy from the grid. They are most useful when solar generation and heating demand overlap.
How Many Solar Panels Do You Need to Run a Heat Pump?
There is no fixed number of solar panels needed. It depends on your heat pump’s electricity use, panel output, available roof space and household demand. Solar will usually support rather than completely power the heat pump.
Can Solar Panels Power a Heat Pump in Winter?
Yes, but winter solar generation is much lower, while heat pump demand is usually higher. This means most homes will still need electricity from the grid during colder months.
Can You Run a Heat Pump Without a Battery?
Yes. A heat pump does not need a battery to operate with solar panels. A battery simply lets you store surplus electricity or use cheaper off-peak electricity later.
Is a Heat Pump Worth It If You Already Have Solar Panels?
It can be. Existing solar can help reduce the grid electricity needed by a heat pump, but whether the investment is worthwhile depends on your home, heat loss, tariff and installation cost.
Can You Add Solar Panels After Installing a Heat Pump?
Yes. Solar panels can be installed after a heat pump. When planning the solar system, consider your heat pump’s electricity demand so the system can be designed around your household’s overall energy needs.
