Solar has been described as a “shining star” of the EU’s energy transition, helping to shelter households from the crippling cost of fossil fuels.

According to Eurostat data, solar covered more than 17 per cent of the EU’s electricity mix in the first quarter of 2026. As sunny conditions are expected to continue throughout the summer period, solar capacity is only predicted to keep increasing.

But aside from lowering our energy bills and weaning Europe away from polluting oil and gas – adding rooftop solar panels to your home comes with a host of hidden benefits.

Can solar panels keep your home cool during extreme heat?

Solar panels create a barrier between your roof and the sun, absorbing UV radiation that would otherwise heat up your roof and enter the home.