Small plug-in solar panels, also known as balcony solar panels, could soon appear on UK shelves after the government announced plans to make the technology easier to use in British homes. Retailers, including Lidl and Iceland, alongside solar brands such as EcoFlow, are working with ministers on plans to bring approved plug-in solar kits to the UK market.
Unlike a full rooftop solar installation, plug-in solar panels are designed to offer a lower-cost way to generate some of your own electricity, without scaffolding, major building work or a five-figure home improvement project. However, they generate far less electricity, will not take your home off-grid and may not suit every property.
A typical kit includes one or more solar panels and a microinverter, which converts the electricity generated by the panel into a form your home can use. Some systems are designed for balconies, patios, garden walls, sheds or other sunny outdoor spaces, making them particularly appealing to renters, flat owners and households without a suitable roof.
Government estimates suggest some households could save around £70 to £110 a year on energy bills. But actual savings depend on factors such as a sunny, south-facing location and daytime electricity usage. If a kit costs around £400 to £500 and saves £70 to £110 a year, the payback period could be roughly four to seven years in favourable conditions.
Households should wait for products that are clearly certified for the UK market, rather than buying imported kits designed for countries with different electrical rules. The safe and compliant route will depend on the product, the connection method and the final UK standards that apply.
