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Free, expert and impartial advice on plug‑in solar panels

Sometimes known as balcony solar or plug‑and‑play solar, these systems are designed to connect directly to your home’s electricity supply.

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From 27 August, it will be legal to connect UK‑compliant plug‑in solar systems in homes across England. If you’re wondering what that means for you, our expert advisors are here to help.

What is plug‑in solar?

Plug-in solar systems are smaller than traditional roof or ground mounted solar panels and are designed to plug into standard plug sockets. They feed energy directly into your home’s electricity supply, reducing the cost of running appliances like your TV.

Your home could be suitable for plug-in solar if you have a balcony or access to outdoor space. While they won’t generate as much electricity as a full rooftop solar system, they can help reduce the amount of electricity you need to buy from your energy supplier.

How much does plug‑in solar cost?

The cost of a plug‑in solar system varies depending on it’s size, the equipment included, and where it’s installed.

Plug-in systems cost significantly less to install than traditional rooftop or ground mounted solar systems. Offering homes a lower‑cost way to get started with solar energy.

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We can help you make sense of your options

Our advisors can help you explore whether plug-in solar could be a good fit for your home

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Could plug‑in solar reduce my energy bills?

The amount you could save depends on several factors, including:

The more electricity you use while the sun is shining, the more you will save.

Panels installed in a south facing location, free from shade will be able to work at their best. East and West facing locations are also suitable but will generate less electricity. We do not recommend installing plug-in solar in north facing locations.

The larger the systems size, the more energy it generates and the less you have to buy from the grid. All plug-in solar devices that are legal to use in the UK have a maximum power output of 800W.

Savings will depend on the cost you currently pay per unit of electricity from the grid.

Is plug-in solar right for me?

Before investing in a system, make sure you:

Consider whether you have a safe, secure, and appropriately positioned location for the panels. Ideally facing south and free from shade. Check your homes electrical system is safe for plug-in solar, we recommend speaking with a certified electrician if you have any doubts on this.

Plug-in solar is considered a permitted development, but if you live in a listed building or a conservation area, you may need to get planning permissions for your plug-in solar system.

If you rent your home or live in a flat, it’s important to make sure you have the relevant permissions before buying a plug-in system.

Here are some things to check:

  • Is the system’s output 800W or lower?
  • Is the device compliant with UK safety regulations and from a registered manufacturer?

It’s a legal requirement to register your plug-in solar panel system with your local Distribution Network Operator. If you’re unsure how to do this, our advisors can help.

Free, expert, and impartial support

Choosing a new low carbon technology can feel overwhelming, especially when it’s something new to the market.

Our expert advisors offer free, independent support to help you: 

  • Understand how plug-in solar works
  • Explore whether its right for your home
  • Compare costs and potential savings
  • Learn about connection requirements
  • Understand your wider energy saving options
  • Get trusted information without a sales pitch
Speak with our team today

Part of a community group, local organisation or team?

Our expert advisors can deliver a free ‘Solar Made Simple’ session in your workplace or community.

Sessions are designed to help your organisation or community understand the benefits, costs, and practicalities of solar energy with clear and impartial guidance. Covering ground mounted, rooftop and plug-in solar systems.

Book a Solar Made Simple session
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