British Gas has launched new plug-in solar technology and is giving 30 households the chance to win a unit worth around £500. The compact units are designed to be positioned in suitable outdoor spaces such as balconies, patios and gardens and can be connected to a standard household socket.
How the plug-in solar units work
British Gas says the legally compliant plug-in option allows eligible households to generate their own electricity from smaller-scale units that can be used in suitable outdoor spaces. The energy giant says it is part of their focus on helping customers navigate the changing energy landscape and find new ways to gain greater energy independence.
The competition is said to give more people the opportunity to generate their own electricity at home, with the potential to save up to £110 a year on their energy bills.
What the experts say
John Evans, commercial director at British Gas, said: "For a long time generating your own solar power has meant having the right roof, the right home and the ability to make a significant investment upfront.
"Plug-in solar is opening up another option for households who want to start generating their own electricity. We want to help more people take that first step, which is why we're giving 30 households the chance to win a plug-in solar unit."
"For us, it's about giving people more choice and control over how they generate and use their own energy. And for eligible British Gas customers, there's the opportunity to go one step further."
How to enter the competition
In the next few weeks, customers can receive payments for eligible surplus electricity they export to the grid. This means the energy they generate can potentially work harder for them.
Martin McCluskey, minister for local energy and jobs, said: "From today these easy-to-install panels can be plugged into homes with no installation cost and provide up to 20% of average home electricity use."
Households can enter the British Gas competition by registering their interest in purchasing plug-in solar kit from British Gas when it becomes available. Winners will be selected from those who register their interest before September 16 and they'll be selected and notified between September 17-30.
