Plug-in solar just became legal in the UK — here are 5 things you need to know, from prices to potential savings

The UK has recently made it legal to install plug-in solar systems, allowing individuals to purchase and plug these systems directly into their homes' electrical outlets without the need for professional installation or roof mounting. This development makes it easier and quicker for people to start saving on their electricity bills and is particularly beneficial for renters who do not own their homes or rooftops.

Plug-in solar kits, which include panels, inverters, cables, plugs, and mounting hardware, are now available for purchase and must meet specific specifications, including a maximum output of 800 volt-amps and 3.5 amps of current, with a total energy capture limit of 2,000 watts. These kits can cost around £700, and while there are currently limited options available, major retailers such as Lidl, Asda, and B&Q are expected to stock similar products soon.

According to early estimates, users could save around £110 per year by switching to plug-in solar, though this timeframe is expected to improve as more data becomes available. Despite the new regulations, there are still limitations on where users can place these panels, as they cannot be installed on wooden balconies, fences, walls, or gates, nor can they exceed certain heights on sloped or flat roofs.

Additionally, plug-in solar systems cannot be connected to batteries or used to power energy storage systems without professional installation, as the energy must be used in real-time. The UK government is cautious about approving plug-in batteries alongside solar panels, focusing on evaluating the solar technology first.