Plug-in batteries seem like a great fit for your new plug-in solar panels, but don't rush to buy one just yet — the rules are more complicated than you'd think

In the UK, plug-in solar panels are now authorized, but plug-in batteries for storing and reusing solar power are still illegal. These solar panels can be plugged into a regular wall socket and may pay for themselves in three to five years. However, solar energy generated during the day is either used immediately or sent to the grid, and consumers must pay more for electricity during evenings.

Anker Solix, a company that produces portable power stations and solar generators, has launched the Solarbank 4 Pro solar battery, which is "plug-in ready" but currently can only be installed via a hardwired connection by a Part P registered electrician. The issue with plug-in batteries is that UK homes' wiring wasn't built for energy to flow back into it.

Circuit breakers in homes protect against overloading and fires, but they can't detect battery discharge, leading to a problem called load masking. This could cause wires to get hot and increase the risk of fires. While plug-in batteries might seem like a logical next step for home solar, the rules and regulations surrounding their installation in the UK are still unclear and could pose significant risks.