Solar demand in Wales surges as energy price fears grow

Concerns are growing that households in Wales could face solar panel shortages as rising tensions in Iran push up energy prices.

Exclusive data from Glow Green, one of the UK’s leading providers of energy efficient products, reveals that solar panel demand has surged 182% year-on-year across the UK, coinciding with growing instability in global energy markets.

Wales is already at the forefront of the UK’s renewable transition and that trend is set to contunue with all new‑build homes in Wales will be required to include a renewable electricity system from March 4, 2027.

Glow Green’s analysis of the Welsh Government’s latest Energy Generation in Wales 2023 report shows that renewable electricity generation in 2023 was equivalent to 53% of Wales’s total electricity consumption.

The Welsh Government set a target to achieve the equivalent of 100% of Wales’s annual electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2035, and to keep pace with rising demand moving forward.

The threat of rising energy prices is prompting more Welsh homeowners to secure renewable alternatives, as fears grow that global tensions could lead to further price shocks and potential supply bottlenecks.

“With global tensions rising and the situation in Iran putting pressure on fuel and energy prices, we may be on the brink of another shift in the UK’s renewable energy market,” warned Lloyd Greenfield, renewables expert at Glow Green.

“During the Ukraine conflict, rising wholesale gas prices led many homeowners to seek renewable alternatives, triggering an unexpected solar panel shortage across the UK. If current trends continue, we could see a similar pattern emerge again where growing demand for solar panels outpaces supply, and that includes in Wales.

“Supply and demand constraints can change rapidly in times of uncertainty, and as energy prices climb, we predict more households in Wales are likely to explore solar as a long‑term way to stabilise their energy bills,” he adds.

Lloyd Greenfield urged Welsh homeowners to treat solar as part of their wider energy plan, alongside improving efficiency and exploring storage options.

Top 5 tips to avoid solar panel shortages in Wales

How Welsh households can beat delays and rising energy costs

Get quotes early – “With demand rising, don’t wait. Ask for two or three quotes now to understand costs, lead times, and availability.”

Check stock and install times – “Find out which panels are in stock and how long installations are currently taking in your area of Wales.”

Be flexible on brands – “If your preferred model is unavailable, consider equivalent panels from reputable manufacturers so you’re not waiting months for a specific product.”

Improve energy efficiency first – “Draught‑proofing, insulation, and smarter heating controls can reduce the system size you need and cut bills, making your solar investment go further.”

Verify installer credentials – “Check reviews, accreditations like the Microgeneration Certification Scheme, and how long the company has been trading before committing.”

Lloyd from Glow Green added: “With solar panel demand surging and Wales seeing a resurgence in small‑scale solar projects, households that plan will be better prepared if supply becomes tight. Families are already seeking quotes, checking stock, and upgrading their homes, showing that early action can make a real difference in managing energy bills and avoiding last‑minute stress.”