Guide price bands
These are the broad bands we use as a starting point. They include the main equipment; installation, extras and your own power needs will move you up or down within (or beyond) a band.
| Type of setup | Guide range | Usually suits |
|---|---|---|
| Portable power stationWeekend trips, renters, beginners | From £300 | Weekend trips, renters, beginners |
| Basic DIY solar setupOccasional touring with modest power needs | £500 – £1,500 | Occasional touring with modest power needs |
| Mid-range system with lithium batteryRegular trips, remote working | £2,000 – £4,000 | Regular trips, remote working |
| Premium complete installationFull-time living, high power use | £5,000 – £8,000 | Full-time living, high power use |
Your quote is based on your vehicle or home and how you use it, not on a band.
What drives the cost
How much power you use each day
This is the biggest factor. Lights and phone charging need very little. A compressor fridge, laptop work, a diesel heater's fan, a water pump and induction cooking each add to the battery and panel capacity you need.
Battery type and size
Lithium (LiFePO4) batteries cost more upfront than AGM, but they are lighter, give more usable capacity and last longer. Battery capacity is often the single most expensive part of a fitted system.
Roof space and panel type
Rigid panels give the best value per watt when there is flat roof space. Flexible panels for curved roofs and folding portable panels usually cost more for the same output.
How you travel in winter
Scottish winters bring short days and low sun, so panels produce far less than in summer. If you travel or live aboard year-round, a DC-DC charger from the alternator, more battery capacity or mains hook-up charging may be worth budgeting for.
Installation
A plug-and-play power station needs no installation. Fitted systems involve roof mounting, sealing cable entry points, routing cables, fusing and testing. Labour depends on the vehicle or building and how accessible it is.
Extras
- An inverter for three-pin plug appliances (size depends on what you run)
- A battery monitor so you can see charge levels
- Mains hook-up chargers and isolators
- Mounting brackets, cable glands and roof sealant
Ways to keep costs down
- Measure your real daily use before buying, so you don't oversize the battery
- Start with a portable power station and add panels later if you need them
- Use 12V appliances where you can, rather than running everything through an inverter
- Choose rigid panels where roof space allows
Paying for it: Loans available, subject to status. See our grants & finance guide for VAT and what grants do and don't cover.