Plug-in solar panels: what you need to know | ScottishPower

Plug-in solar panels are legal in Great Britain from 27th August, creating a new option for households interested in generating some of their own electricity.

Designed to be mounted in suitable outdoor spaces and connected through a standard plug socket, plug-in solar panels could make solar generation more accessible for some people living in flats, rented homes or properties where traditional rooftop solar may not be practical.

Plug-in solar panels could provide an alternative. However, as a relatively new technology in the UK market, there are still important considerations around suitability, performance, installation requirements and safety. It’s important to understand both the opportunities and the practical considerations before deciding whether it’s right for your home.

What are plug-in solar panels?

Plug-in solar panels, sometimes called balcony solar or plug-and-play solar panels, are compact solar systems designed to generate electricity for use within your home.

Most systems include one or two solar panels and a microinverter, which converts the electricity generated by the panel into electricity that can be used by household appliances. The system then connects through a standard three-pin plug socket.

Unlike traditional rooftop solar systems, plug-in solar panels can typically be mounted or positioned in suitable outdoor locations, such as:

Some systems may also be portable enough to move with you if you change home.

Who are plug-in solar panels suitable for?

One of the main reasons plug-in solar is attracting attention is because it may provide an option for households that have previously found solar difficult to access.

This could include:

However, every property is different. Available space, sunlight exposure, mounting arrangements and the condition of a property’s electrical installation will all affect whether a system is suitable.

What does the 800W limit mean?

One of the most talked-about aspects of plug-in solar panels is the 800W limit applied to the inverter, which converts electricity generated by the panels into electricity that can be used within your home.

At first glance, 800 watts may not sound like much. The average UK household typically uses around 7-9kWh of electricity each day, although this can vary significantly depending on household size and energy use patterns.

However, the 800W limit refers to the maximum power output at any one moment, not the total amount of electricity a system may generate throughout the day.

Plug-in solar systems are not designed to meet all of a household’s electricity demand. Instead, they can contribute towards the electricity being used while the system is generating power, helping to reduce the amount of electricity imported from the grid.

What can plug-in solar panels realistically power?

Rather than powering one specific appliance, electricity generated from a plug-in solar system is used by the appliances and devices operating in your home at the time. This could include everyday electrical items such as:

How much electricity a system contributes will depend on a number of factors, including:

For this reason, it may be more helpful to think about plug-in solar as contributing towards everyday electricity demand, rather than powering specific appliances independently.

How much could I save?

There is no single answer to this question.

The potential impact on electricity bills will vary from home to home and depend on factors including:

Customers should be cautious about any claims of guaranteed savings, as actual performance will vary depending on individual circumstances.

Safety should come first

As plug-in solar panels become available in Great Britain, they could offer a new way for some households to generate their own electricity. Before installing a plug-in solar system, it’s important to :

Panels should always be placed or mounted securely and in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Where possible, systems should be connected using an appropriate external socket rather than routing cables through windows, doors or other unsuitable openings. It’s best to avoid extension leads and temporary electrical arrangements unless the manufacturer clearly states they can be used with the plug-in solar system.

As with any electrical equipment, using it incorrectly could create safety risks, so it’s important to follow the guidance and seek advice if you need it.

If there’s any doubt about the suitability of a home’s electrical installation, customers should seek advice from a qualified electrician before using a system.

Do I need to register a plug-in solar system?

Customers should be aware that plug-in solar generation equipment must be registered with their local Distribution Network Operator (DNO) through the G98 notification process.

Anyone considering purchasing a system should ensure they understand the relevant requirements and follow the guidance provided by both the manufacturer and the local network operator.

Plug-in solar and traditional rooftop solar

Plug-in solar panels are not intended to replace traditional rooftop solar systems. For households with suitable roof space, rooftop solar is likely to offer significantly greater generation potential.

However, plug-in solar may provide an alternative option for some households that cannot install conventional rooftop panels.

The most suitable solution will depend on individual circumstances, property type and energy needs.

ScottishPower’s view on plug-in solar

The legalisation of plug-in solar panels represents an interesting development in the UK energy market and could provide a new way for some households interested in generating renewable electricity.

At ScottishPower, we welcome innovation that could help more customers access greener living technologies. As plug-in solar remains a relatively new technology in the UK, we’re continuing to assess the safety, suitability and performance.

While ScottishPower does not currently offer plug-in solar panels, we’re continuing to review the technology and its potential benefits for customers. Our focus remains on giving customers clear, trusted information so they can make informed decisions before deciding what’s right for their home.

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