Hydroponic Electricity Costs UK
Calculate UK electricity costs for hydroponic systems. Compare LED vs HPS lights, pumps, and ventilation. Real running costs for 2025.
Not sure which setup is right for you?
Take Our QuizHydroponics uses electricity. How much depends on your setup. Here's the honest breakdown for UK growers.
What Uses Power:
Grow lights: The main consumer. 100-400W typically, running 14-18 hours daily.
Air pumps: Small draw. 5-15W, running continuously.
Water pumps: Varies by system. 10-50W, running continuously or on timers.
Fans and ventilation: 20-50W typically, running continuously.
Heating mats (if used): 20-50W, thermostat controlled.
Current UK Electricity Rates: At approximately 28p per kWh (2024 average, varies by supplier and tariff), you can calculate costs directly.
Formula: Watts × hours per day × 30 days ÷ 1000 × rate = monthly cost
Example Setups:
Small herb garden (100W LED, 16 hours): 100 × 16 × 30 ÷ 1000 × 0.28 = £13.44 per month
Medium tent (200W LED + 10W pump + 20W fan, 16 hours light): (200 × 16) + (30 × 24) = 3920Wh daily 3920 × 30 ÷ 1000 × 0.28 = £32.93 per month
Large setup (400W LED + pumps + ventilation): Expect £50-70 per month depending on configuration.
LED vs HPS Running Costs: A 400W LED produces similar light to a 600W HPS. The HPS also generates more heat, potentially requiring more ventilation.
Annual saving with LED: Approximately £150-200 for equivalent light output. LED pays for itself within 2-3 years through lower bills.
Reducing Costs:
Timer precision: Lights don't need to run longer than necessary. 14-16 hours is enough for most vegetables.
Efficient equipment: Newer LED technology uses less power for the same output.
Insulation: A well-insulated tent holds temperature, reducing heating costs in winter.
Off-peak tariffs: If available, running lights during cheaper rate periods saves money.
The Economics: A typical small setup costs £15-25 monthly in electricity. Compare this to buying herbs and salad at the supermarket. If you're harvesting £30-50 worth of produce monthly, you're ahead.
Larger setups have higher costs but also higher yields. The ratio often improves with scale.
Our Take: Don't let electricity concerns stop you from starting. A small herb garden's power cost is comparable to running a few extra lightbulbs. Start small, track costs, and scale based on real numbers.
Products Mentioned in This Guide
Mars Hydro TS-1000
Mars Hydro
150W LED with upgraded chips. Budget-friendly alternative to Spider Farmer. Covers 60x60cm for veg, suitable for herbs, ...
View on AmazonSpider Farmer SF-1000
Spider Farmer
100W full-spectrum LED grow light with Samsung LM301B diodes. Perfect for 60x60cm growing area. Low heat output, excelle...
View on AmazonDual Outlet Air Pump
Generic
Quiet air pump for DWC systems. Dual outlet can run 2-4 DWC buckets. Low noise, reliable operation. Essential for oxygen...
View on AmazonDWC Bucket Kit (5 gallon)
Generic
Complete DWC bucket kit. Includes 5-gallon bucket with lid, 6-inch net pot lid insert, air stone, tubing. Add air pump a...
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
Find Your Perfect Setup
Answer a few quick questions and get personalised recommendations.
Start the QuizFrequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to run a hydroponic system UK?
Small herb garden (100W LED, small pump): £4-6/month. Medium setup (300W LED, tent ventilation): £15-20/month. Large system (600W HPS, multiple fans): £25-35/month. Lights are 80-90% of electricity costs.
Are LED grow lights cheaper to run than HPS?
Yes, significantly. 300W LED (equivalent light to 600W HPS) costs £12/month vs £24/month for HPS. LEDs also generate less heat, reducing ventilation costs. Higher upfront cost, but pays back in 12-18 months.
Can I reduce hydroponic electricity costs?
Use LED lights (biggest saving), match light hours to crop needs (lettuce needs 12-14 hours, not 18), insulate grow space to reduce heating/cooling, use timer-controlled pumps instead of continuous operation.
Related Guides
Ready to find your perfect setup?
Our quiz matches you with the right system, lights, and supplies.
Take the Quiz - It's FreeNo email required