Miniature Solar Revolution: Solar Panels pop up in Model Village
- Creative solar panel installation highlights how renewable energy is becoming a desirable modern home asset
- New Wickes research reveals over half (59%) of UK homeowners believe solar panels are becoming a cool feature for modern homes, signalling a shift from practicality to aspirational living[1]
- Research shows rising energy bills prompt 70% of homeowners to rethink how they power their homes1
A model village on the Isle of Wight has installed tiny replica solar panels across three of its iconic houses. The playful yet thought-provoking display mirrors the growing adoption of solar panels in real UK homes, with one in 20 UK households already generating electricity through solar panels.[2]
The initiative, launched by home improvement retailer Wickes, aims to showcase how solar panels are no longer just a practical solution for helping to reduce energy bills - they’re becoming a must-have feature for forward-thinking homeowners.
According to new research commissioned by Wickes, over half (57%) of UK homeowners believe having solar panels makes a home look more modern and forward thinking.1
Additionally, almost half (48%) of homeowners who don’t yet have them plan to install solar panels in the future, driven by rising energy costs and a desire for greater control over their energy consumption.1
"Solar energy is no longer just about saving money - it’s about creating homes that are more efficient, innovative, and future-ready. Our research shows that homeowners view solar panels as a cool feature, and we want to make them accessible to more people.
Teresa Paul Sustainability Category Development Director, Wickes
This activation at The Model Village on the Isle of Wight is a fun way to bring this message to life. By scaling down the technology to fit miniature houses, we’re showing that solar energy can work for homes of all shapes and sizes!"
With energy prices continuing to fluctuate unpredictably, 70% of homeowners say rising energy bills have made them rethink how they power their home.1 Solar energy offers a long-term solution, allowing homeowners to generate their own electricity, reduce reliance on the grid, with the potential to sell excess energy back to suppliers.
Wickes Solar is breaking down barriers to solar adoption by offering competitive pricing, expert advice, and seamless installation services. Wickes Solar provides an end-to-end solar panel purchase and installation service, making it easier than ever for homeowners in the UK to embrace this forward-thinking technology.
The Model Village in Godshill demonstrates the potential of solar energy, even on a small scale. While the solar panels featured in the display are replicas, they highlight the real-world benefits of harnessing renewable energy sources. Importantly, solar panels can work across the country and don’t require constant sunshine to operate efficiently.
"We’re delighted to partner with Wickes Solar on this project. Our miniature world is all about capturing attention to detail, and these tiny solar installations are a perfect fit.
Penny Dyer Director of Model Village Godshill
Although our model village represents one that is hundreds of years old, we’re proud to show how old and new can come together and coexist in the future. With the addition of these solar panels alongside our existing to-scale wind turbine, we’re continuing to highlight the importance of renewable energy in a way that’s both fun and thought-provoking.
The solar panels have been weatherproofed and will remain on display at Model Village Godshill for several weeks, giving visitors the chance to appreciate how renewable energy can transform even the smallest of homes."
Wickes Solar offers high-quality solar panel installations at competitive prices, along with swift installation and aftercare. Wickes Solar guides homeowners through every step of the process, including setting up a phone app to track energy generation and export. All solar panels come with a 25-year guarantee, ensuring peace of mind for years to come.
For more information and a free quote, head to Solar Panel Installation | Wickes Solar, or for more quick and easy energy-saving solutions, explore the interactive Wickes Energy Efficient Home.More information on campaign activity can be found here.
[1] According to research conducted by Mortar on behalf of Wickes, June 2025
[2] According to latest government data, linked here: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/solar-photovoltaics-deployment, June 2025
Notes to Editors
*Mortar Research carried out a survey targeting adults in the UK. The sample was nationally representative of gender, region and age. The survey asked respondents about their thoughts and feelings about solar panels, as well as rising energy costs.
Respondents were incentivised and each provided opt-in consent in line with MRS and GDPR guidelines.
Demographic: 2,000 respondents
Sample date: 13th -16th June 2025
For more information, please get in touch with the Wickes Press Office at Clarion Communications on 020 7479 0910 or email wickes@clarioncomms.co.uk
Or visit our website wickes.co.uk
Instagram: @Wickes
X: @Wickes
Facebook: @Wickes
TikTok: @Wickes
About Wickes
Wickes is a digitally led, service-enabled home improvement retailer. With an extensive range of products and DIY brands, a Kitchen & Bathroom design and installation service, solar panel offerings, and a loyalty scheme for local trade, Wickes is the perfect partner to help with both small and large-scale projects. With 230 stores across the UK and an extended range online, it has everything customers need, whether an amateur DIY-er or trade professional.
REACTIVE Q&A
1. Why did you choose a model village for this campaign?
The Model Village in Godshill is an iconic tourist attraction that perfectly captures imagination and attention. By installing miniature solar panels on its tiny houses, alongside its existing replica wind turbine, we’re able to showcase a range of renewable energy solutions in a fun, approachable way that sparks curiosity. The model village also reflects real-world conditions, making it an ideal location to demonstrate how solar panels work, even on a small scale. Our goal was to help make the concept of renewable energy more relatable and accessible to homeowners across the UK.
2. Are the miniature solar panels functional, or are they purely decorative?
The miniature solar panels are replicas designed to reflect the look and feel of the real solar panels we offer at Wickes. While they don’t generate power themselves, they serve as a visual representation of how solar panels can be seamlessly fitted onto roofs, both aesthetically and practically. For those curious about functionality, our Wickes Solar installation experts are always available to answer questions and provide demonstrations of real systems.
3. How long will the miniature solar panels remain on display?
The miniature solar panels will remain on display at The Model Village until the end of August, giving visitors time to come and see them.
4. What are the solar panels made from?
They are made from materials including Foamex and vinyl.
5. How can I find out more about Wickes solar offerings?
To learn about solar at Wickes, visit the official Wickes solar website.
*Any further questions related directly to Wickes Solar (and not specifically the PR stunt) will be dealt with on an ad hoc basis and in line with consultancy from the Wickes Sustainability team.