Plug-in solar panels are now legal to buy and use

Plug-in solar panels are now legal to buy and use in Great Britain. The legal changes follow independent safety testing, covering all key electrical elements, which shows that compliant panels are safe and compatible with UK wiring, says the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).

Each plug-in solar kit produces up to 800W of power, enough to provide up to 20% of an average home’s electricity use. That’s enough to run a fridge, television, Wi-Fi router, laptop, phone charger and an Xbox S operating at the same time – when the sun is shining – says the government.

Retailers including Currys, B&Q, Screwfix and Amazon have worked with the government on the rollout of plug-in solar and committed to having stock in stores and online.   

The low-cost panels can be put in any outdoor space or on some balconies. Before buying or installing plug-in solar devices, people should check whether any permissions are required for the property. This may include permission from a landlord and/or building owner or freeholder permission, planning permission or listed building consent. 

Those fitting plug-in solar are strongly encouraged to register their device. David Boyer, director of Electricity Systems at Energy Networks Association, said: “This is a major step forward for incorporating micro generation safely and efficiently onto the UK’s energy grid. Network operators will continue to work closely with government, Ofgem and manufactures to ensure the registration process for micro-generation evolves to meet consumer demands.

“Households are encouraged to register their device on myplugin.solar. It only takes about a minute to register a device and ensures compliance with UK regulation.”

The Energy Saving Trust says plug-in solar panels could lower electricity bills by up to £100 per year, and a system costs from around £450 to install. It has created a host of guidance and a checklist before buying.

The government says there has been record demand for solar power, with MCS figures showing almost 150,000 solar panel certified installations in the first six months of 2026, up 17% on the previous highest start to a year in 2025. That’s the equivalent to an installation every 74 seconds.  

Battery installations have also risen significantly, with installations almost double the same period last year at 36,000 certified installations.