Date
31 August 2026
Households across Great Britain can now install plug-in solar panels, giving more people the opportunity to generate their own renewable electricity without the cost and complexity often associated with traditional rooftop solar systems.
The new technology, which became legal on 27 August 2026, allows small solar panels to be plugged directly into a home’s electrical system using approved equipment. Designed to be simple to install, the panels can be placed in suitable outdoor spaces such as gardens, patios and some balconies.
According to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, a typical plug-in solar kit can generate up to 800 watts of power, providing up to 20% of an average household’s electricity use when conditions are favourable. Households could save up to £110 per year on their energy bills by generating some of their own electricity at home.
The technology has already proved popular in parts of Europe, particularly Germany, where hundreds of thousands of systems have been installed. Recent regulatory changes and independent safety testing have now opened the door for a similar rollout in Great Britain.
Households could save up to £110 per year on their energy bills by generating some of their own electricity at home
For Plymouth residents interested in reducing their carbon footprint, plug-in solar could offer another way to make use of renewable energy, particularly for people who may not be able to install a full rooftop solar array. While the systems are designed to be straightforward, homeowners, tenants and leaseholders should check whether any permissions are needed before installation, particularly for rented properties, flats or listed buildings.
As renewable technologies become more accessible, initiatives such as plug-in solar panels highlight how small-scale solutions can help households reduce their reliance on grid electricity while supporting the transition to a lower-carbon future.
Read the full Government announcement to find out more about plug-in solar panels, eligibility and installation requirements.
More
News
Refurbishment of Plymouth flats completed as part of £1.95m Decarbonisation Project
£1.95m refurbishment project helps Stoke community save money on their energy bills.
But what if I get flooded?
Find out how to protect your home from flooding, using household items you might already own.