Yes, solar panels can often be installed on a garage roof. However, a qualified installer must first check that the roof is strong enough and receives enough sunlight to make the system worthwhile.
The installer will also need to consider the roof’s condition, size, pitch and direction, as well as nearby trees or buildings that create shade. They will then assess the electrical connection and recommend a suitable number of panels.
Below, we explain what to check before adding solar panels to your garage roof, along with the possible benefits, costs and permissions involved.
You can add solar panels to an existing garage or include them in the plans for a new one. If you are building a new garage, you can choose its position and roof design with solar panels in mind.
Ask a qualified solar installer to assess the plans before construction begins.
Choose a location that with good sunlight throughout the year. Trees, fences and nearby buildings can shade the roof and reduce the amount of electricity generated.
The installer can carry out a shading assessment to help you choose the best position. Check with your council before cutting down or moving any protected trees.
The roof needs enough clear space for the planned number of panels.
The installer can recommend a suitable system based on the available roof space, sunlight and the amount of electricity you use. The garage must also meet any relevant planning and Building Regulations requirements.
The best roof pitch depends on the garage’s location, direction and exposure to sunlight. A south-facing roof often produces the most electricity overall, while east- and west-facing roofs can also work well.
Do not assume that panels should go on both sides of the roof. An installer can estimate the output from each roof slope and recommend the best arrangement.
Plan the cable route before starting the groundwork or building the garage. Your installer may recommend underground ducting between the garage and the house, depending on the system.
A qualified electrician must connect the panels to the home’s electrical system. They can also check the consumer unit and advise whether the Distribution Network Operator needs to be involved.
If you want a battery, its position must follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some batteries can go inside a garage, while others are suitable for outdoor installation. The installer will consider ventilation, temperature, access and safety when choosing its position.
If you are building a new garage, coordinate the cable route with the groundwork. Our garage foundations guide explains what to consider before installation.
Once you have a draft garage design, ask a qualified solar installer to recommend a suitable system. They will consider the available roof space, expected output and the amount of electricity you use.
Confirm the combined weight of the panels and mounting system before finalising the garage design. The roof and frame must be strong enough to support them.
Chart Garages can help you choose a suitable garage frame and roof covering. Your solar installer or structural professional must confirm that the final design can support the proposed system.
Solar panels can reduce the amount of electricity you buy from the grid. How much you save will depend on the system’s output, your electricity use and whether you use or export the power it generates.
You could use the electricity for your home, garage equipment or an EV charger. However, solar panels may not generate enough power to charge an electric car on their own, especially during winter. If you are planning to charge an EV in the garage, read our guide to installing an EV charger in a garage.
Solar power can also reduce your reliance on grid electricity. The panels generally need little maintenance, although you should perform occasional checks and remove dirt or debris when necessary.
Planning a new garage for solar panels? Chart Garages can help you choose a suitable frame, roof design and covering for your made-to-order timber garage, carport, or carriage house.
Your solar installer or structural professional will need to confirm that the final design can support the proposed system. Contact our team to discuss your garage and request a quote.
