Solar PV in social housing: A practical guide for UK social housing providers

This practical guide has been produced by the Midlands Net Zero Hub to help social housing providers understand how rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) systems operate and how to maximise the benefits for both landlords and tenants. It is aimed at asset, energy, retrofit, housing management, and finance teams involved in specifying, installing, managing, and explaining solar PV systems in social housing.

The guide explains the key principles of solar PV generation, self-consumption, electricity imports and exports, and how these factors influence the overall value delivered by a solar installation. It highlights the importance of increasing on-site consumption of electricity generated by solar panels, helping tenants reduce energy bills while improving overall project value.

The guide provides practical advice for each stage of project delivery, from feasibility and design through to long-term operation. It includes recommendations on performance monitoring, export metering, resident communications, maintenance planning, grid connection requirements, and establishing clear ownership arrangements for export payments.

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