From 27 August, households across Great Britain will be legally permitted to buy plug-in solar panels, following the Government’s removal of one of the last obstacles preventing these products from being sold by high street retailers in the UK. Unlike conventional solar panels that require roof installation, these plug-in versions can be used in various outdoor spaces such as balconies, terraces, or shed roofs.
Known in Europe as ‘balcony power plants’, these systems typically include one or two small solar panels and a microinverter. This microinverter converts the solar energy into a safe electrical form that can be fed directly into the home via a standard three-pin socket, negating the need for professional installation and making them suitable for renters.
The Government estimates that switching to such plug-in solar panels could save some households up to £110 annually on electricity bills. While these systems have been common in parts of Europe, they were previously illegal in the UK due to existing safety regulations prohibiting electricity feeding back into wall sockets.
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“Making these plug-in solar panels available will open opportunities for renters and flat-dwellers to generate their own renewable energy with minimal installation requirements.”
The new legislation revises these safety rules, allowing the use of plug-in solar panels from late August. However, householders must still consider local planning regulations, verify that their electrical system is compatible, and obtain permission from landlords or freeholders where necessary before using the panels.
This change enables major retailers such as Currys, B&Q, and Asda to offer DIY solar setups, providing access to renewable energy for those living in flats or rented accommodation without roof access. Government guidelines discussed with retailers earlier this year suggest these plug-in panels will be priced at around £400 or more.
While they cannot power an entire home single-handedly, ‘balcony power plants’ can help reduce energy bills by generating green electricity on a smaller scale. The Government projects that households could save between £70 and £110 per year by adopting the new technology.
Consumers should be aware that not all plug-in solar kits will automatically be legal; the products must comply with new safety standards and product specifications. Legal devices will have a maximum output of 800 watts, with only one device permitted per electrical circuit. The legislation covers solar generation devices only and does not include other plug-in equipment that stores electricity to feed it back later.