Solar Panels and Property Value

Yes, solar panels increase home value. The question is by how much — and it depends on your market.

What Research Shows

Studies across multiple countries consistently find:

• US (Zillow, 2019): Homes with solar sold for 4.1% more on average — about $9,274 on a median-priced home
• UK (Solar Energy UK): Solar panels add an estimated 2–4% to property value
• Australia: Studies show $6,000–$10,000 AUD premium for solar homes

Similar trends are observed globally — real estate agents report growing buyer interest in solar-equipped properties, especially as electricity prices rise.

Why Buyers Pay More

Lower operating costs — a home with solar has lower electricity bills, making it more affordable to live in.

Future-proofing — with rising energy costs and carbon regulations, a solar-equipped home is seen as forward-thinking.

The system is already paid for — the new buyer inherits 15–20 years of remaining panel life without paying for installation.

What Matters to Buyers

Owned, not leased — a fully owned solar system adds value. A leased system can actually complicate sales because the new buyer must assume the lease.

Quality of installation — professionally installed, permitted, and documented systems are assets. DIY or undocumented systems can raise concerns.

Transferable warranties — most panel warranties transfer to new owners. Make sure yours do.

Age of the system — a 2-year-old system is more attractive than a 20-year-old one. The remaining useful life matters.

Documentation — production records, original invoices, permits, and warranty certificates should all be available for the buyer.

How to Maximize Value

1. Keep production records — monitoring data proves the system works as claimed
2. Maintain the system — clean panels, working inverter, no visible damage
3. Keep all paperwork — permits, warranties, installation certificates
4. Highlight it in listings — include annual production and savings figures
5. Own your system — if you finance, pay it off before selling if possible

The Bottom Line

Solar panels are one of the few home improvements that pay for themselves through energy savings AND increase resale value. You benefit while living there and when selling.

Check what your roof could produce with our free calculator.