Electricity and energy prices have soared in recent years in Scotland, and while government support has softened the blow, the long-term trend remains upward. The UK’s reliance on imported fossil fuels, combined with geopolitical tensions and inflation, means energy costs are unlikely to fall to previous levels.
More homeowners are now looking at ways to take control of their energy use. Installing solar panels, combined with battery storage, is becoming a practical step to reduce dependency on the grid and manage long-term costs. In Glasgow and across central Scotland, companies like Jorro are helping homeowners take action.
Why Energy Prices Keep Going Up in Scotland
Ofgem, the UK energy regulator, sets a price cap for standard variable tariffs, but this only limits how much suppliers can charge per unit – it doesn’t guarantee cheap energy. The energy cap has been adjusted frequently in response to global wholesale prices, and uncertainty remains over how stable this will be in the future.
The National Grid has also forecast higher electricity demand in the coming decades, especially as more households switch to electric heating and vehicles. This means even off-peak tariffs are likely to shift upwards. The government’s Energy Security Strategy recognises the need for more domestic energy generation, and part of the strategy includes encouraging more solar installations.
Solar PV Scotland
Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems convert sunlight into electricity. Even in Scotland’s climate, solar panels can generate a reliable supply of electricity throughout the year. Panels don’t need direct sunlight – they just need daylight. On cloudy days, production drops but doesn’t stop.
Modern solar panels are highly efficient and typically come with a performance warranty of 25 years or more. Once installed, they generate electricity without any ongoing fuel costs. This can offset a large portion of your daily electricity use, particularly in spring and summer.
Domestic installations usually range from 3kW to 6kW, depending on roof size and orientation. The energy produced is first used in the home, reducing what you need to import from the grid. If you’re out during the day, battery storage allows you to capture this electricity and use it later in the evening.
Battery Storage
Adding a home battery to your solar PV system means you’re not restricted to using solar electricity as it’s being generated. The battery stores excess energy, so it can be used when the sun isn’t shining.
For example, energy generated at noon can be stored and used at 6pm when household demand is usually highest. Without a battery, this surplus would either go to waste or be exported to the grid for a low return through the Smart Export Guarantee.
Battery sizes vary depending on household needs. A typical 5kWh or 10kWh battery can support most domestic homes for several hours, particularly if the household has energy-efficient appliances and lighting.
Batteries also allow for time-of-use charging. If you’re on an off-peak tariff like Octopus Go, you can charge your battery from the grid overnight when electricity is cheaper, then use it during the day to avoid peak rates. Find out more information about Octopus here.
Scottish Government Support and Incentives
While there are currently no upfront government grants for solar panels in Scotland, installations benefit from zero VAT on both panels and battery systems until 2027, thanks to a UK Government tax relief measure.
In Scotland, you may also qualify for an interest-free loan through the Home Energy Scotland Loan, which helps cover the cost of solar PV and battery storage. This scheme is administered by the Energy Saving Trust and funded by the Scottish Government.
Planning permission is generally not required for rooftop solar on most houses, but you can check with your local authority or refer to Scottish Government planning guidance.
Combining EV Chargers and Solar
If you’ve already moved to an electric vehicle or are considering it, combining a solar PV system with a smart EV charge point can make even more sense. During the day, your solar panels can top up your car’s battery, often for free. When connected to a smart home energy system, your EV can be charged automatically when surplus solar energy is available.
Jorro installs solar-compatible EV chargers like the Zappi from myenergi, which allows you to choose between grid charging, solar charging, or a mix. This means more of your home-generated power can be used directly, reducing your need to draw from the grid.
With the UK Government’s ban on new petrol and diesel cars starting in 2035, it’s expected that most households will own an EV within the next decade. Preparing your home now with solar and EV infrastructure can reduce future installation costs.
Grid Independence and Backup
Energy independence doesn’t have to mean going completely off-grid. But having your own solar and battery system gives you much more control. During blackouts or grid interruptions, certain systems allow backup power to be used for lighting, fridges, and critical appliances. This is increasingly appealing in rural or semi-rural areas of Scotland where outages are more frequent.
Some premium battery systems, such as the Tesla Powerwall, include backup functionality. Jorro is a certified Tesla installer, which means you can discuss backup options specific to your property and energy needs.
Rising Property Value and Energy Ratings
Homes with solar PV systems and battery storage are likely to see an improvement in their Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which is required when selling or renting a property. A better EPC rating can increase your home’s value and make it more attractive to buyers.
In competitive housing markets like Glasgow and the Central Belt, energy-efficient homes stand out. Buyers are increasingly aware of the running costs of a home, not just the purchase price. A property with lower annual electricity bills and a modern renewable energy system may offer a stronger return on investment.
Energy Planning for the Next Decade
With unpredictable wholesale energy costs and increased demand on the grid, homeowners are under pressure to manage their future energy use more proactively. The combination of solar PV and battery storage offers a realistic solution – not just for reducing current bills, but for creating a stable, self-managed energy system that works year after year.
Jorro installs domestic solar and battery systems across Glasgow and central Scotland, with options tailored to each property. Whether you’re planning a full renewable setup or starting small, now is the right time to think about how your home can meet its own energy needs and stay ahead of future price rises.
