Written by: Robert Costart
Updated on: 26 October 2024
Written by: Robert Costart
Updated on: 26 October 2024
IKEA Solar Panels: What Happened and What Could Be Next?
IKEA Solar Panels: What Happened and What Could Be Next?
The Short-Lived Solar Adventure of IKEA in the UK
IKEA first launched solar panels in the UK in 2017, aiming to provide affordable, renewable energy options. However, by 2019, they halted sales due to the conclusion of the Feed-in Tariff program, which had incentivized homes to go solar. This initiative allowed homeowners to earn by selling excess power back to the grid. Unfortunately, without this incentive, IKEA saw diminished profitability in their solar offerings, leading to their UK exit (IKEA, 2019).
While IKEA no longer offers solar panels or batteries in the UK, it still sells these products across ten European nations and Australia. The absence of comprehensive government subsidies and support in the UK market makes it less appealing for IKEA. Despite halting sales, the company remains hopeful about a potential return as energy prices rise, which might align with their goal of providing affordable solutions (IKEA, 2023).
Current Status of IKEA's Solar Products
Could Solar Panels Make a Comeback?
As of now, IKEA has not committed to a re-launch of solar panels in the UK. Yet, theories abound that the Smart Export Guarantee could revitalize the market, providing homeowners with financial benefits from solar investments (Energy Saving Trust, 2023). Given the rise in solar adoption with over 1.3 million systems installed, there’s a growing market eager for accessible solar solutions, potentially paving the way for IKEA’s return.
Assessing the Economics of Solar Panels
Price comparisons highlight how IKEA's models are competitively priced in territories where they still operate. In Australia, for instance, a 6.6kW solar array starts around AU$4,155 (approx. £2,251) - a sharp contrast to UK prices (IKEA Australia, 2023). Current UK homeowners find solar panels profitable, but only after long-term investment of over a decade. Still, there's potential for savings, and the increasing consumer interest could lead to IKEA's beneficial products entering the UK market again.
IKEA Solar Panels: What Happened and What Could Be Next?
Get your personal free quote today
Compare solar panels quotes in UK
Get 3 quotes in just 1 minute
Registered address:
71-75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, United Kingdom, WC2H 9JQ.
VAT number: 453495276
Copyright © 2025 Costart Projects Limited and its affiliated companies. All rights reserved. Costart Projects Limited is registered in England and Wales. Company No. 14812412.
