Plug-in solar panels are now legally on sale in the UK from today (Thursday, August 27), giving households a new way to generate electricity without the cost of a traditional rooftop installation.
A rule change means compliant systems with an AC output of 800W can be connected directly to a suitable household socket. They must also meet specific requirements covering the inverter, plug, cable, electrical protection, labelling and instructions.
Unlike traditional solar panels that require professional installation, these smaller systems can be installed without an electrician. They can be positioned anywhere rules allow, such as in a garden, or on a balcony or wall to soak up the sunshine and reduce energy bills.
Where to buy plug-in solar panels
Now that plug-in solar panels are legally available to buy in the UK, many retailers are gearing up to stock them. The government confirmed today that this will include Amazon, Argos, Curry's, B&Q, Screwfix and Wickes.
The announcement also confirms that these high street firms have been working with the UK government on the roll-out of the solar powered panels, with many set to have them on shelves both in store and online soon.
What requirements will they need to meet?
Households are currently restricted to one plug-in solar device due to new G98 network rules approved by Ofgem, with the new legislation also coming into effect as of today (Thursday, August 27).
Households will also need to notify the electricity Distribution Network Operator (NDO) when they have plugged in their new solar panel system. These rules apply to Scotland, England and Wales, while Northern Ireland operates under a separate electricity safety system.
It is also worth noting that some households may need to require permission to install plug-in solar panels. This may be from a landlord, freeholder or managing agent.
As mentioned above, each system will also need to produce up to 800W of power, which is enough to provide up to 20 percent of an average home's electricity use. This means it could run a typical fridge, television, Wi-Fi router, laptop, phone charger and an Xbox S operating at once when the sun is shining.
How much will solar-plug in panels cost?
Prices may differ once devices start to become available, but UK solar company UKSOL advises that kits will start at £699 for one panel and then £1,089 for two panels. The government expects prices to settle at £400-£600 as competition increases and more products are developed, as reported by the BBC.
How much will I save?
According to the UK government, these smaller solar panel systems can save the typical British household up to £110 per year through clean, homegrown power.
The change to the rules comes as records show "a record demand" for solar power across the nation. Figures released by MCS recently showed there were almost 150,000 solar panel certified installations in the first six months of 2026, up 17 percent on the previous highest start to a year in 2025.
Battery installations have also increased, doubling the same period last year to 36,000. Energy Secretary Miatta Fahnbulleh said: "Plug-in solar is a simple, affordable way for households to take control of their energy bills and start saving straight away. From this summer, we're giving more families the ability power their homes with clean homegrown energy."
More information on compliant devices and the full guidance can be found on the UK government website.
