Solar installers in Portsmouth.

Sun figures from PVGIS; roof estimates include solar data from Google. How we measure.

Local context

Solar in Portsmouth: quick guide.

Portsmouth has excellent sun — it's one of the sunnier spots in the UK — but a distinctive housing challenge. Portsea Island is densely built and terrace-heavy, so roof space is tighter here than in most cities. That doesn't rule solar out; it just makes checking your roof up-front more useful, so you know what will realistically fit.

A few Portsmouth-area things worth knowing:

• Strong southern sun. The PO area is among the sunniest in the country — where you can fit panels, they perform very well.
• Dense terraces. On Portsea Island most homes have one modest roof slope, so its direction and size set the system. The roof check gives a realistic picture first.
• Coastal exposure. Seafront and harbour-side roofs need corrosion-resistant fixings and proper wind-loading checks — routine for a local firm.
• More space off the island. Fareham, Havant, Waterlooville and the mainland suburbs have larger, simpler roofs that suit a full system and battery.
• Isle of Wight. The PO area includes the Island; check that a listed installer actually crosses the Solent before assuming they cover you.

Grants & support

What help is available in Portsmouth?

Solar and battery installations across the UK are currently zero-rated for VAT until 31 March 2027 — a straight saving on the installed price for every household, with no application needed. In England, ECO4 and the Warm Homes scheme can help eligible lower-income households with energy-efficiency measures through their energy supplier or local council.

Eligibility for grant schemes depends on your income, home and circumstances, and the schemes change. We keep the current picture on one page rather than guess what you'll qualify for.