UK Solar Capacity Passes 20 GW
The UK solar market has crossed 20 GW of installed capacity. Workloads are increasing, procurement is tighter and installers are feeling the pressure of a fast growing sector that is quickly moving toward the 45 GW target.
What 20 GW actually means for installers
The recent growth is affecting installers far more than the headline suggests.
- More quotes turning into live jobs
- Turnaround times tightening
- Greater pressure on stock and delivery times
- Supply inconsistencies across panels, inverters and mounting gear
The past year delivered 1.9 GW of new capacity with 1.4 GW installed in the first three quarters alone. Large sites like the Cleve Hill project get media attention, but the bulk of this growth is coming from everyday rooftop installs where availability and timing matter.
Why demand is accelerating
The shift is driven by a mix of economic, technological and policy factors.
- Module pricing stabilising at levels that make residential installs more compelling
- Higher efficiency modules from brands like Aiko and Longi
- Growth in low carbon and traceable panel demand, led by JA Solar
- Battery storage becoming a standard part of domestic quotes
- Customers aiming for long term stability against energy price volatility
- More commercial sites adopting rooftop solar
- Higher demand for next day capable supply chains
Where installers are feeling the strain
Growth is good, but it comes with real challenges on the procurement side.
Installers across the UK consistently highlight the same issues:
- Panels going out of stock during peak periods
- Hybrid inverters on multi week delays
- Mounting gear shortages slowing down entire jobs
- Price changes making quotes difficult to lock in
As the UK moves toward the 45 GW target, this pressure is expected to increase. The installers who stay ahead will be those with steady supply, not just good installation skills.
A reliable solar wholesaler is becoming essential
With the industry growing this quickly, installers need wholesalers who can guarantee stock, keep pricing stable and offer next day delivery across the brands clients expect.
DECO Group carries more than 1900 products across 60 plus brands, covering panels, inverters, batteries and mounting equipment with next day delivery on most lines.
Popular solar panel brands available at DECO Group
Aiko Solar Panels
Ideal for installers needing maximum output per square metre on residential or commercial jobs.
JA Solar Panels
Strong option for larger domestic and commercial projects needing ESG transparency.
Longi Solar Panels
Perfect for homeowners who want high performance on limited roof space.
BAUER Solar Panels
German engineered modules with industry leading warranty packages for premium clients.
Need steady stock as UK demand rises?
Access more than 1900 products with next day delivery on most items. Keep your installs on schedule with reliable supply across panels, inverters, batteries and mounting equipment.
For trade quotes call 03335 777488 or send your BOM for pricing.