Solar for every type of barn
A barn is defined by its roof — and every barn roof is a different solar opportunity. We size and cost each barn type on its own terms, from a 6 kW conversion to a 500 kW poultry array.
The single thing that makes a barn a barn — a large, simple, often south-facing roof plane — is exactly what makes it close to ideal for solar PV. But a modern steel portal shed, a grain store with a seasonal drying peak, a 24/7 poultry unit, a Grade II listed threshing barn and a converted barn home are five very different projects. Each sizes differently, pays back differently, and consents differently. Choose the barn type closest to yours below for the detail that actually applies to it — the typical system size, the realistic payback, the planning route, and the funding that fits. For the wider picture across the whole farm estate, see our guide to solar panels for agricultural buildings.
Best canvas for PV Steel-Frame Portal Barns
30–300 kW · 5-year payback · £24,000–£270,000
Grain Stores & Crop Barns
50–500 kW · 6-year payback · £40,000–£450,000
Livestock & Cattle Barns
20–200 kW · 6-year payback · £18,000–£185,000
Fastest payback Poultry & Pig Units
50–500 kW · 4.5-year payback · £40,000–£450,000
Traditional & Listed Barns
6–40 kW · 8-year payback · £7,000–£40,000
Barn Conversions & Smallholdings
4–20 kW · 8-year payback · £6,000–£22,000