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Thu, 30 Apr 2026

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 Homeowners turn to solar panels as oil prices rise

Yorkshire installers report up to a tenfold increase in interest since the start of the Iran war.
Renewable energy companies in Yorkshire are reporting a surge in interest in solar panels due to rising fuel prices and global tensions, particularly with the US-Israel war with Iran. Energy suppliers such as Octopus have seen a 50% rise in sales of solar panels, with local companies also experiencing increased demand. Solar Plus Yorkshire Ltd's managing director Mark Houldsworth says his company has received around 150 inquiries so far this month, compared to the usual 15. He attributes the increase to households wanting to save money and reduce their reliance on oil and gas, as well as a desire for "control" over their energy needs. Houldsworth notes that similar surges in interest have occurred in the past, including during the Ukraine war and Covid-19 pandemic, but says this current trend is more pronounced. Leeds Solar's Gavin Andrews also reports a 50% increase in inquiries since the start of the Iran war. Homeowners such as Chris Simpson are taking advantage of the increased demand for solar panels, with some opting to install them sooner rather than later due to the geopolitical uncertainty caused by the war. However, experts advise consumers to do their research and get independent assessments before investing in solar panels, which may not be suitable for all houses. The increased demand has raised concerns about possible disruptions to supplies of solar panels, which are mostly manufactured in China and shipped to the UK.