Can I Go Off-Grid with Solar and Battery in the UK?
More and more homeowners across Norwich and Norfolk are eyeing up solar and battery systems, not just to shave money off their energy bills, but to take back control. And let’s be honest, the idea of sticking it to rising energy costs and becoming your own power station? It’s pretty tempting.
So, can you really go fully off-grid here in the UK? Or is the smarter route somewhere in between? Let’s break it all down. No nonsense, just honest answers from a local solar installer who’s seen it all.
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What Does 'Going Off-Grid' Actually Mean?
Going off-grid means cutting the cord from the national grid entirely. You’re producing, storing, and managing your own electricity throughout the year. It’s total freedom, but it comes with responsibility.
To make it work, you’ll likely need a decent number of solar panels, say 15 or more to meet your home’s demand. You’ll also want a large battery setup, somewhere between 20 to 40kWh, to store that energy. And since UK weather isn’t exactly predictable, a backup generator might be a wise addition. Smart energy management ties it all together.
This isn’t a weekend DIY project. It’s a serious setup that needs professional planning. Want more detail? Check out this simple guide to solar and battery systems from the Energy Saving Trust
Can You Go Off-Grid in Norfolk?
In theory, yes. In practice, it depends. Norfolk enjoys over 1,600 hours of sunshine per year, which is above average for the UK. That gives solar panels a solid chance to thrive here. But winter is a different story. Between November and February, generation dips noticeably. You’ll need enough stored energy to see you through the darker days.
For an average three-bedroom home, a setup might include 15 to 25 solar panels, 20 to 40kWh of battery storage, and perhaps an LPG or diesel generator for backup.
For rural homes, where connecting to the grid is costly or unreliable, going fully off-grid can be a great solution. But for most of us, especially in urban or suburban Norfolk, a hybrid system is the best of both worlds, giving you flexibility, reliability, and peace of mind.
Is Going Off-Grid Actually Worth It?
Let’s be honest, going fully off-grid isn’t cheap. The costs can climb to £40,000 or more when you include solar, batteries, backup systems, and installation. That’s a big upfront investment.
But if you’re in a location where connecting to the grid isn’t feasible, or you simply want complete energy independence, the value might justify the cost. You’ll need to consider how sunny your area is, how much electricity you use, and how much you’re prepared to invest.
For the majority, hybrid systems offer most of the benefits. 70% to 90% energy independence, for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you’ll still have a connection to fall back on when you need it.
How Hybrid Solar and Battery Systems Work (Without the Nonsense)
Here’s how it works. During the day, your solar panels generate electricity for your home. Any excess energy isn’t wasted, instead it’s stored in your battery for use later. When night rolls around, that battery steps in and powers your home.
If you ever need more than what your solar and battery combo provides, the grid’s still there. Some smart systems also let you charge your battery at night using cheaper off-peak electricity. And if you’re generating more than you use, you can sell that energy back to the grid through the Smart Export Guarantee.
This setup lets you reduce your bills while keeping a reliable safety net. Wise Green Energy installs these systems across Norfolk, including in Norwich, Thetford, Wymondham, and beyond.
To check if you’re eligible to sell energy back to the grid, visit the Ofgem Smart Export Guarantee guidance.
Want the Benefits of Off-Grid Without the Hassle?
You don’t have to go completely off-grid to enjoy the perks. For most people, hybrid solutions are far more practical.
Solar and battery storage gives you independence and cost savings. If you’re in a rural area, a backup generator adds extra resilience for those rare outages. You can also improve your home’s efficiency, where better insulation means smaller systems and bigger savings. And if you drive an EV, charging it from your solar setup is one of the smartest, most affordable choices you can make.
These solutions are scalable, cost-effective, and future-ready.
What Will It Cost in 2025?
Going off-grid is a major investment. Expect to spend between £25,000 to £40,000 for a full setup including solar, batteries, and a generator.
A good set of panels (15–25) will set you back £8,000–£12,000. Battery storage can range from £10,000–£20,000 depending on capacity. Add another £3,000–£6,000 for a reliable backup generator.
Now compare that to a hybrid setup. You could get away with a 10–15kWh battery system for around £6,000–£12,000 (depending on your needs) and still achieve 70–90% energy independence.
There’s also 0% VAT to take advantage of, plus potential SEG payments, and a downward trend in battery prices.
For more detail, see the UK Government’s domestic battery guidance
Should You Go Off-Grid?
Let’s cut to the chase. If you live in a remote area with unreliable grid access, going off-grid could make perfect sense. But if you want lower bills, more energy control, and fewer headaches, a hybrid system is likely your best option.
We’ve helped countless customers across Norfolk find their ideal setup. Most go hybrid…and most don’t look back.
Thinking About Making the Switch?
We’re Wise Green Energy, based in Norwich. We’re your local experts in solar and battery systems, offering tailored advice and installations that work for your home.
Try our solar cost calculator to get a quick estimate. Or drop us a message—we’ll walk you through your options with no pressure.
FAQs About Off-Grid and Hybrid Solar Systems
Q: How much can I save with solar and battery in Norfolk? Most homes see a 60–80% reduction in electricity bills depending on system size and usage.
Q: Is solar worth it in winter? Absolutely. While output dips, smart tariffs and batteries help you store and use energy when it matters most.
Q: Can I add a battery later? Yes, we can future-proof your system for easy upgrades.
Q: What maintenance is needed? Minimal. Just occasional cleaning of your panels. Batteries are built to be low maintenance.
Q: Can I charge my EV from solar? Definitely. It’s a popular reason for going solar.
Q: What warranty do I get? A 10-year workmanship warranty, with most products covered for 10–25 years.
Q: Can I spread the cost? Yes, we offer finance options to help make it more affordable.
Still unsure? We’re here to help. No pushy sales tactics, just honest advice.
Talk to us or try our Solar PV Cost Calculator.
