Plug-in solar panels are set to hit UK shop shelves within months, offering households a simple way to cut energy bills. These panels can be placed on balconies or in any outdoor space, plugging into a mains socket to provide free solar power.
Potential Savings
Government research estimates that the typical UK home could save between £70 and £110 annually on energy bills. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) says the technology is especially transformative for renters—who usually need landlord permission for traditional solar panels—and for lower-income families unable to afford costly installations.
Checkatrade notes that standard solar panel installation can cost over £10,000. In contrast, plug-in panels are far cheaper and easier to install.
Industry Support
Energy Minister Martin McCluskey recently held a roundtable with major retailers including Amazon, Asda, B&Q, Currys, Lidl, Screwfix, and Wickes, all backing the plans. The move follows rule changes announced earlier this year that allow UK homeowners to self-install plug-in solar panels.
The government has also launched a consultation on enforcing safety rules for consumer installation.
Record Solar Installations
A record 269,000 solar installations were completed in the UK in 2025—the highest ever in a calendar year and 37% more than the previous year. Of these, about 255,000 were rooftop solar, meaning at least 95% of new solar was on homes, businesses, and other buildings.
Quotes from Key Figures
Martin McCluskey said: "Plug-in panels can be transformative for renters or those on lower incomes. This easy-to-install tech can cut people’s bills and help make the UK less reliant on global fossil fuel markets."
John Boumphrey, Amazon UK & Ireland Country Manager, commented: "This is a fantastic opportunity to make renewable energy more accessible. Amazon is the largest corporate buyer of carbon-free energy in the UK."
Graham Bell, CEO of B&Q, added: "We welcome the introduction of plug-in solar panels, which will help households generate their own energy and reduce bills."
Georgina Hall, Lidl GB Corporate Affairs Director, said: "A clear, robust framework could unlock a highly effective, low-cost route for people to reduce energy bills."
Michelle Gorringe-Smith, Currys Director of New Categories, noted: "Enabling the safe roll-out of these products will mark an important step for consumers across the UK."
Plug-in solar panels are already widely used in Europe. The announcement comes as energy bills are forecast to rise again this winter, with the Ofgem price cap expected to increase from October.
