“My Energy Bill Was £7.14 Last Month”: The Solar Surge That’s Creating New Careers

If you're considering a career change, now might be the ideal time to step into one of the UK’s fastest-growing and most impactful industries—solar energy installation.

As the UK experiences longer, hotter summers and record levels of sunshine, homeowners are increasingly turning to solar panels to cut energy costs and reduce reliance on the grid. In June alone, households with solar panels saved up to £30 per week on electricity bills, according to Electrify Britain.

Real Stories, Real Savings

Few people illustrate the benefits of solar energy as clearly as Professor Sue Roaf, one of the first in the UK to install a full solar system on her home.

Roaf built her eco-home in Oxford 30 years ago. Her system still produces around 80% of its original output—and this year’s sunshine has been especially rewarding. In May, her electricity bill was £7.69, and in June it dropped to just £7.14, despite throwing a large party with several house guests. She has no gas bill, thanks to a solar water heater used throughout the summer months.

“I wouldn’t dream of putting the dishwasher or the washing machine on at night,” Roaf says. “I do it when I’m doing it on my own free energy.”

Each year, she receives around £200–£300 from her energy supplier for electricity she exports back to the grid. And she’s convinced it’s one of the best investments a homeowner can make.

“Don’t spend your retirement lump sum on a car or even a fancy heating or cooling system. Spend it on the solar roof first. It’s just a brilliant investment.”

A Sector on the Rise

The UK’s solar sector is expanding rapidly. The government aims to triple national solar capacity to 50+ GW by 2030, meaning far more homes, schools, and businesses will require installations—and skilled professionals to carry them out.

Whether you're leaving an office job, trade work, or an entirely different field, retraining in solar installation offers:

• A clear path into a future-proof, growing industry

• Opportunities to work independently or start your own business

• A tangible role in helping reduce emissions and support the UK’s energy independence

Demand for qualified solar electricians is surging. In fact, job listings for solar installers have grown by 315% over the past three years, making it one of the fastest-growing professions in the UK. By 2030, the sector is expected to require up to 35,000 workers, more than double the current workforce.

Why Career Changers Are Getting Involved

For those looking to switch paths—whether due to redundancy, burnout, or a desire for more meaningful work—solar energy offers:

• Stable employment prospects

• Practical, hands-on work

• The satisfaction of working in a sector that directly addresses climate and cost-of-living concerns

There are structured training routes available, including electrical qualifications combined with solar PV installation modules, which make it accessible even to those with no previous experience in the electrical trade.

Sources & Further Reading

• UK Solar Sector Could Triple by 2030 – The Guardian
  An overview of Britain’s ambitious solar expansion targets and the opportunities it presents.

• Solar Job Forecasts and Industry Roadmap – gov.uk
  Official government projections on job growth and workforce demand in the solar PV sector.

• Solar Installer Demand Grows 315% – Solar Power Portal
  A detailed look at how demand for solar installers has surged across the UK.

• Net-Zero Economy Growing Faster Than UK Average – The Guardian
  Explores the growth of green jobs and the economic impact of the UK’s net-zero transition.

• Becoming an Electrician in the UK – Optima Training
  Practical guidance on training routes and qualifications needed to enter the electrical and solar industries.

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Thinking of retraining as an electrician with a focus on solar?

At Optima, we provide comprehensive electrical training courses that equip you with the skills, qualifications, and confidence to work safely and legally in this vital industry.

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your qualifications, our accredited training programmes will give you the knowledge, confidence, and credentials to meet new building standards and market demand.

✅ Hands-on training
✅ Industry-recognised certifications
✅ Expert instructors with real-world experience
✅ Courses tailored to upcoming regulations

Contact us today to embark on your training journey.

Contact us: Request Information

Email: info@optima-ect.com

Freephone +44 800 0371572