Solar Panels Dorset
MCS-Certified Solar Panel Installers in Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset
Dorset is one of the best counties in the UK for solar. Dorchester receives around 1,580 kWh/m² of solar irradiance per year, roughly 45% more than the UK average, and over 35,000 Dorset homes already have solar panels installed. With energy bills remaining unpredictable and the 0% VAT rate on domestic solar installations still in place, there has never been a better time to make the switch.
Ace Energy are MCS-certified solar panel installers based in Dorset, serving homeowners and businesses across Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset. We design and install complete solar PV systems, including battery storage, across Shaftesbury, Blandford Forum, Dorchester, Wimborne, Salisbury, Trowbridge and surrounding areas. From initial survey and system design through to installation, certification and aftercare, everything is handled in-house by our experienced local team.
From domestic rooftop systems to larger commercial solar PV installations, we handle everything in-house — from initial consultation to final commissioning and ongoing support.
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We can install your Solar PV panels in two ways
- On roof installation: your panels would be fitted onto your existing roof construction.
- In roof installation: part of your roof would be removed and the panels fitted in the roof profile.
To offer greater self-sufficiency, Ace Energy are able to install a storage battery; this allows storage of the unutilised electricity your system generates which can be called upon when your panels are not producing electric.
There are two types of Solar battery system installations
- Direct current: the battery and panels share the same inverter.
- Alternating current: requires separate inverters – one for the battery and one for the panels.
As independent solar PV panel and battery installers we are able to offer you the most effective system for your home and lifestyle.
To help reduce your homes carbon footprint even further, here at Ace Energy we are able to install both your solar PV panels and an air source heat pump or ground source heat pump. This offers you a renewable central heating system which is powered by your own electricity produced from your solar PV panels.
Why Choose Ace Energy as Your Solar Panel Installers in Dorset?
Choosing the right solar PV installers is critical. At Ace Energy, we combine technical expertise with genuine local experience.
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MCS Certified Solar Installers
All installations meet Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) standards, ensuring eligibility for Smart Export Guarantee payments.
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Experienced Local Dorset Team
We’ve been installing solar PV systems across Dorset and Wiltshire for over 10 years, working on everything from 3-bed family homes to agricultural buildings and commercial premises.
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Domestic & Commercial Solar Specialists
From 3-bed homes to agricultural buildings and commercial premises.
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Battery Storage Experts
We design and install integrated GivEnergy battery storage systems to maximise your solar self-consumption and reduce grid reliance. GivEnergy battery storage.
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Fully Insured & Compliant
All work carried out to current electrical regulation
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Honest, Transparent Advice
No pressure selling. Just clear recommendations based on your property and goals.
Solar PV Installation in Dorset – How It Works
We make the Solar PV installation process simple and straightforward.
1. Free Consultation & Site Survey
We assess your roof orientation, shading, structural suitability and energy usage patterns.
2. Bespoke Solar System Design
Your system is designed to maximise output and financial return based on Dorset sunlight levels and your consumption.
3. Clear Quotation
You’ll receive a detailed breakdown including panel specifications, inverter type, optional battery storage and projected savings.
4. Professional Installation
Our qualified installers fit your system efficiently, typically within 1–3 days depending on size.
5. Testing, Certification & Handover
We fully commission your system and provide all MCS certification documentation.
6. Ongoing Monitoring & Support
We remain available for advice and aftercare long after installation.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in Dorset?
One of the most common questions we’re asked is about cost.
While prices vary depending on property size and system capacity, typical solar panel installation costs in Dorset are:
| System | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 3–4kW domestic system | £5,000–£7,000 |
| Battery storage add-on | £2,000–£5,000 |
| Larger commercial systems | Quoted individually |
Factors that affect price include:
- Roof size and angle
- Scaffold requirements
- Inverter type
- Battery storage inclusion
- Electrical upgrades if required
0% VAT on Solar Installations
Domestic solar panel installations currently benefit from 0% VAT, a saving of up to £1,400 on a typical system. This rate is in place until at least March 2027, so it is worth acting before any potential changes
How Much Could You Save?
A typical Dorset household could save £700–£1,000+ per year, depending on system size and energy usage. With energy prices remaining unpredictable, many systems see payback within 6–9 years.
We provide realistic projections during your consultation.
The Benefits of Solar Panel Installation in Dorset
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Reduced energy bills
Solar PV panels can help reduce your electricity spend by as much as 40-50%. Your panels will still produce energy during winter or cloudy days.
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Reduce Carbon Footprint
Solar PV do not produce any carbon emissions as they work and are powered by a renewable energy source; this makes them one of the most eco-friendly additions to your home.
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Generate Income
The Smart Export Guarantee means you can earn money for the excess renewable electricity you produce. This guarantee is offered by most energy companies and you can choose the tariff that suits you best.
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Very low maintenance
Most solar panels have a 20-25 year performance guarantee and other than the odd cleaning to ensure the panels are clear of obstructions, they shouldn’t take up too much of your time.
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0% VAT
As a homeowner you’ll pay 0% VAT on domestic Solar PV installations.
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Increase Property Value
Homes with solar PV systems are increasingly attractive to buyers.
Solar Battery Storage in Dorset
Adding battery storage to your solar system means you can store the electricity your panels generate during the day and use it in the evening, rather than exporting it to the grid at a low rate and buying it back at a higher one.
Around 94% of new solar installations in the UK now include a battery, and it is easy to see why: a well-sized battery can significantly increase the proportion of your own solar energy you actually use, cutting your grid reliance further.
We install GivEnergy battery storage systems, which offer smart monitoring via the GivEnergy app, flexible tariff integration including Octopus Agile and similar time-of-use tariffs, and a proven track record across our Dorset and Wiltshire installations. Find out more about GivEnergy.
Benefits include:
- Increased self-consumption
- Reduced grid reliance
- Greater energy independence
- Backup power options (system dependent)
We install integrated solar and battery systems tailored to your usage.
Areas We Cover Across Dorset, Wiltshire & Somerset
Ace Energy installs solar panels across Dorset, Wiltshire and Somerset. Our main service areas include:
Dorset:
- Shaftesbury
- Gillingham
- Blandford Forum
- Dorchester
- Wimborne
- Wareham
- Verwood
- Stalbridge
Wiltshire:
- Salisbury
- Trowbridge
- Warminster
- Westbury
- Melksham
Somerset:
- Frome
- Shepton Mallet
- Yeovil
- Wincanton
If your area is not listed, contact us, we cover a wide radius from our Shaftesbury base.
Solar Panel Installation Case Studies
Take a look at the latest solar projects we’ve completed in Dorset & Wiltshire too.
Solar Panel Installation Considerations
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Space
The average PV system needs between 15-20m² of space and whilst it doesn’t need to face directly South the more sunlight the panels receive the better.
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Shading
Nearby trees, buildings and chimneys can cause shading of your panels. If this is unavoidable optimisers can be installed to help neutralise the effect of the shading.
Where can you install Solar Panels?
Solar PV systems can be installed in a variety of locations depending on your property and available space:
- Pitched residential roofs
- Flat roofs
- Ground-mounted systems
- Agricultural buildings
- Commercial units and warehouses
In Dorset, south-facing roofs will maximise energy production, though east or west-facing roofs can still generate electricity effectively. The main thing to avoid is shading from nearby trees, buildings or chimneys — if shading is unavoidable, optimisers can be fitted to minimise the impact.
If you’re unsure whether your property is suitable, our team covers the whole of Dorset — including Bournemouth, Poole, Dorchester, Weymouth, Wimborne and Shaftesbury — and can carry out a free site assessment to advise on the best placement for your system.
Financial Perks of Installing Solar Panels in Dorset
Solar Panel Grants & Funding Available in Dorset
Several government schemes can help reduce the upfront cost of solar panels in Dorset. Here is an overview of what is currently available.
Warm Homes: Local Grant
The most generous scheme currently available in England for eligible households. Part of the government’s wider Warm Homes Plan, it can fund up to £15,000 of energy efficiency improvements, including solar panels, at no cost. To qualify, your household income typically needs to be £36,000 or less (thresholds vary by local authority) and your property must have an EPC rating of D, E, F or G. Check with Dorset Council or BCP Council for current eligibility in your area.
ECO4 Scheme
ECO4 has been extended to December 2026. It targets low-income and fuel-poor households receiving means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Pension Credit or Child Tax Credits. Note that solar panels under ECO4 are only available where the property’s main heating system is a heat pump or electric storage heating, homes with a gas boiler are not eligible for solar under this scheme.
Smart Export Guarantee (SEG)
Not a grant, but a guaranteed income stream. The SEG pays you for any surplus electricity your solar panels generate and export back to the grid. Most major energy suppliers offer SEG tariffs, and you can shop around for the best rate. Being MCS certified, as all Ace Energy installations are, is a requirement to access SEG payments.
0% VAT on Solar Panel Installation
Domestic solar panel installations are currently zero-rated for VAT, saving you up to £1,400 on a typical system. This is in place until at least March 2027.
Efficient installation team who were polite and tidy throughout the day whilst fitting our new Solar Thermal.
A Non
Dorset
Completed a service and repair on my solar Thermal panels. Very professional engineers.
A Non
Dorset
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Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some of the most common questions we get asked by our Dorset based customers.
What are the benefits of installing solar panels on your home in Dorset?
Solar panel installation can significantly reduce your electricity bills by harnessing free energy from the sun. It also lowers your carbon footprint, increases your property’s value, and can make you less dependent on the grid. Many solar panel installers also provide maintenance services, ensuring your system runs efficiently for years.
How much does solar panel installation cost?
The cost of solar panel installation varies depending on factors such as the size of the system, the type of panels, and your location. On average, you can expect to pay between £4,000 to £8,000 for a typical residential setup. We recommend consulting with local solar panel installers to get accurate quotes based on your specific needs.
How long do solar panels last?
Solar panels typically have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years. Most solar panel installers offer warranties that cover performance for at least 20 to 25 years, ensuring long-term energy production for your home or business.
Do solar panels work in the UK, even with cloudy weather?
Yes, solar panels work in the UK, even during cloudy weather. Solar panels don’t require direct sunlight; they generate electricity from daylight. While production may decrease on cloudy days, reputable solar panel installers will help you select a system that maximizes energy production year-round.
How do I choose the right solar panel installers in Dorset?
Choosing the right solar panel installers in Dorset is crucial to ensuring your system is installed correctly and operates efficiently. Look for installers like ourselves who have certifications, good customer reviews, and experience in your area.
Can I get financial incentives for installing solar panels?
Yes, in the UK, homeowners can benefit from government incentives such as the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG), which pays you for excess electricity that your system generates.
Are there solar panel grants available in Dorset in 2026?
Yes. The main grant available to eligible Dorset households is the Warm Homes: Local Grant, which can cover up to £15,000 of energy efficiency improvements including solar panels, for households with an income under £36,000 and an EPC rating of D or below. The ECO4 scheme is also still running until December 2026 for qualifying households with electric heating. All other homeowners benefit from 0% VAT on their installation, saving up to £1,400 on a typical system.
Will my solar panels be able to charge my electric car?
Yes, solar panels can charge your electric car, offering an eco-friendly and cost-effective option for powering your vehicle. There are two main ways to do this:
- Direct Charging: If your home has a solar setup with enough capacity, you can charge your car directly during the day when solar production is highest.
- Battery Storage: For flexibility, consider adding a solar battery. This lets you store excess solar energy during the day and use it to charge your car at night.
Keep in mind that charging your car entirely with solar depends on your system’s size, local sunlight availability, and your car’s energy needs. We can help ensure your setup meets your charging requirements effectively.
Do you install solar panels in Wiltshire as well as Dorset?
Yes. We regularly install solar panels across Wiltshire, including Salisbury, Trowbridge, Chippenham, Warminster and surrounding areas. We also cover Somerset. If you are unsure whether we cover your area, please get in touch and we will be happy to advise.
