Plug-in solar panels will soon be available for purchase in the United Kingdom as new regulations permitting their sale come into effect on August 27. Retailers such as B&Q and Lidl are expected to begin stocking the devices, which are a more compact and affordable alternative to traditional rooftop solar installations.
The Department for Energy Security & Net Zero confirmed that the panels will be available for purchase this summer. Government estimates suggest that a well-positioned 800W plug-in solar panel system could reduce annual energy bills by approximately £110, with savings around £70 for west or east-facing installations. However, experts caution that not all homes may be suitable for these panels, and incorrect installation could lead to financial losses.
Installation Considerations
Potential buyers are advised to consider several factors before purchasing and installing plug-in solar panels. A key consideration is the amount of direct sunlight the intended installation location receives. South-facing positions are ideal, while north-facing gardens may struggle to generate enough electricity to recoup the system's cost. Using a smartphone compass app and online tools like SunCalc can help assess sunlight exposure and identify potential shading from trees or nearby structures.
Mounting options include walls, fences, and balconies. If mounting on a fence shared with a neighbor, obtaining permission is crucial to avoid potential damage and repair costs. Renters must check their lease agreements and seek landlord approval before drilling into property structures. Failure to do so could result in charges for removal or repairs.
Safety and Compliance
Fire safety regulations prohibit the installation of plug-in solar panels on timber balconies or timber cladding. Installing panels in such locations could invalidate home insurance policies, particularly if a claim is related to a non-compliant installation. Homeowners are advised to verify their balcony materials and consult with their insurer, landlord, or freeholder if unsure.
Older homes may have outdated wiring that could pose additional electrical and fire risks when integrating new power sources. The Institution of Engineering and Technology recommends obtaining an Electrical Installation Condition Report from a qualified electrician to assess the safety of existing wiring before installation. This report can add to the overall cost and payback period of the solar system.
Usage and Energy Tariffs
The current regulations for plug-in solar panels do not include battery storage. This means that generated electricity is best utilized immediately. Households that consume more electricity during daylight hours, such as remote workers or retirees, are likely to benefit most. Surplus energy fed back into the grid may not be compensated, unlike with traditional rooftop systems.
Experts suggest that for some households, switching to an off-peak electricity tariff, such as Economy 7 or Economy 10, which offer lower rates overnight, might be more cost-effective than relying solely on plug-in solar panels, especially given the unpredictable British weather. For example, running a washing machine on an overnight tariff could cost significantly less than using grid electricity supplemented by solar power.
Network Operator Notification
Once installed, it is a requirement to notify the local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) within 28 days of connecting the panels. The government is expected to launch a central registration website for this purpose when plug-in solar panels become available from August 27. Identifying the correct DNO can be done via the Energy Networks Association website.