Solar Carports UK – Costs, Planning Permission & EV Charging Guide
Solar carports are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to traditional rooftop solar installations. By combining covered parking with integrated solar panels, a solar carport can generate renewable electricity while protecting your vehicle from the weather.
For many UK homeowners, a solar carport can also provide the ideal location for an electric vehicle charging point, helping reduce charging costs and making better use of self-generated electricity.
This guide explains how solar carports work, typical UK costs, planning considerations, battery storage integration and whether they are a worthwhile investment for your home.
Quick navigation: What is a solar carport? · Costs · Planning permission · EV charging · Battery storage · Is it worth it? · FAQs
Related guides: Solar Panel Costs UK · Solar Panels With Battery Costs UK · Charging an Electric Car with Solar Panels
What is a solar carport?
A solar carport is a purpose-built structure that supports solar panels above one or more parking spaces. Rather than mounting panels on your roof, the solar array becomes the roof of the carport itself.
The electricity generated can be used throughout your home, exported to the grid or stored in a home battery for later use.
Protects your vehicle
Provides shelter from rain, snow, frost and strong summer sunshine while generating electricity.
Generates renewable energy
Produces electricity in much the same way as a conventional rooftop solar installation.
Ideal for EV owners
Creates a natural location for installing a dedicated home EV charger.
How much does a solar carport cost in the UK?
The total cost depends on the size of the structure, the number of solar panels installed, whether battery storage is included and the complexity of the installation.
| Installation | Typical guide price |
|---|---|
| Single-car solar carport | Approximately £8,000–£15,000+ |
| Double-car solar carport | Approximately £12,000–£20,000+ |
| Solar carport with battery storage | Typically £15,000–£28,000+ |
These figures are intended as general UK guidance. Actual costs vary depending on the design, equipment selected and installation requirements.
Solar carport or rooftop solar?
| Roof-mounted solar | Solar carport | |
|---|---|---|
| Uses existing roof | ✓ | No |
| Provides vehicle shelter | No | ✓ |
| Suitable if roof space is limited | Sometimes | ✓ |
| Future EV charging location | Indirect | Excellent |
Do solar carports need planning permission?
Planning requirements depend on the size, location and design of the carport, together with local planning policies.
Many domestic installations may fall within permitted development rights, but this is not guaranteed. Properties in conservation areas, listed buildings or locations with planning restrictions may require formal approval.
If you are unsure, always check with your local planning authority before beginning work.
Solar carports and electric vehicle charging
One of the biggest advantages of a solar carport is that it naturally combines renewable electricity generation with home EV charging.
Electricity produced during the day can be used to charge an electric vehicle directly or stored for later use if the system includes battery storage.
Daytime charging
Charge your vehicle while solar panels are producing electricity.
Smart charging
Modern chargers can prioritise solar generation or take advantage of lower-cost electricity tariffs.
Future-ready
A solar carport can become part of a wider home energy system including battery storage and vehicle-to-home technology.
Related guide: Can Solar Panels Charge an Electric Car?
Adding battery storage to a solar carport
Battery storage allows excess solar electricity generated during the day to be stored for use during the evening, overnight or during periods of high electricity prices.
Combining a solar carport with a home battery may increase energy independence and improve the amount of renewable electricity used within the property.
Learn more: Home Battery Storage Costs UK
Who are solar carports suitable for?
Homeowners
Ideal where roof space is limited or where additional renewable generation is required.
Electric vehicle owners
Provides a convenient charging location while generating renewable electricity.
Businesses
Commercial solar carports are becoming increasingly common for staff and customer parking areas.
Are solar carports worth it?
A solar carport may be worth considering if you need covered parking, want to generate renewable electricity and are planning to own an electric vehicle.
Although installation costs are generally higher than a standard carport, combining parking, solar generation and EV charging in one structure can provide long-term value for some households.
Considering solar for your home?
Compare solar installation costs, battery storage options and EV charging solutions before deciding which renewable energy system best suits your property.
Solar Carports UK: FAQs
Can a solar carport power a house?
Yes. A properly designed solar carport can generate electricity for household use in the same way as rooftop solar panels.
Can I charge my electric car from a solar carport?
Yes. Many homeowners install an EV charger alongside a solar carport to make use of the electricity generated during the day.
Are solar carports better than rooftop solar?
Neither option is automatically better. The right solution depends on available roof space, parking arrangements, budget and future energy needs.
Can a solar carport include battery storage?
Yes. Battery storage can be added to store excess electricity generated by the solar panels for use later in the day.
Do solar carports need planning permission?
Some installations may fall within permitted development rights, while others may require planning permission depending on the property and local authority requirements.