New data from UK energy supplier Octopus Energy reveals a 27% rise in British solar installation enquiries since the conflict in the Middle East began.
Octopus Energy compared the number of solar enquiries from 28 February to 7 March 2026 with average weekly enquiries. Since the conflict escalated in late February, gas prices have surged by over 60%. As the situation continues, more households are expected to invest in self-reliant, renewable energy sources for their homes.
This shift allows homeowners to reduce their dependence on gas and lessen the financial impact of volatile gas markets.
“We are seeing a fundamental shift in the national psyche when it comes to energy. With the second energy market shock in less than five years, homeowners are looking for security,” said Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, Chief Product Officer at Octopus Energy.
Additionally, current industry data from the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) shows the UK is experiencing a record year for solar. In 2025, over 260,000 homes installed solar panels, bringing the total to 1.8 million UK households generating solar energy.
MCS data also indicates that UK battery installations have nearly doubled year-on-year, allowing households to store surplus energy for use during peak evening hours.
Together, data from Octopus Energy and MCS suggest a growing trend of UK households seeking greater energy security through renewable resources.
Dibb-Simkin added, “This surge in solar interest suggests people now see their rooftops as a frontline of their financial resilience. By generating their own power, they can help to insulate their bank accounts against global energy crises.”
In a release discussing its February-March findings, Octopus Energy highlighted Norwich homeowners Elizabeth and Keith Stork as a case study. The couple reported saving £60 (US$79) a month on their energy bills thanks to their solar and battery installations.
A report from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) supports this view, noting that home solar arrays reduce reliance on the national grid and lower household bills.
DESNZ’s June 2025 Solar Road Map specifically stated that, on average, homeowners could cut their energy bills by around £500 (US$665) by using rooftop solar PV.
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