Plug-in solar panels: where do homeowners and landlords stand?

Energy prices are a very real concern for many households during the current cost of living crisis. As a result, plug-in solar panels are attracting growing interest as a sustainable way of supporting and reducing energy bills.

These systems, sometimes known as ‘balcony solar’ or ‘plug-and-play solar’, allow occupiers to generate electricity from a small solar panel installation, with its own built-in inverter, without the complexity and cost of a full fixed rooftop solar array. The use of limited plug-in solar will lead to more affordable running costs and contributing to low-cost renewable energy generation, supporting the national move to meet Net Zero targets.

The affordability of many of these systems and ease of installation appear, at present, to be an ideal solution for residential properties. But do they come at a cost? In a word, yes. It must be assumed that these systems are not legal, until proven otherwise.

Only compliant energy generation sources are permitted in the UK, so great care should be taken when selecting plug-in solar panels. To protect both the grid and household for uncompliant electricity generating equipment, only panels that meet the Plugs and Sockets etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994 and Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations 2002 (Amendment) Regulations 2026 and G98 standard are permitted. Helpfully the Energy Networks Association (ENA) display a list of compliant products.

All installations must be registered with your local network provider, the Distribution Network Operator (DNO), found here. The solar panels can alternatively be registered via My Plug-in Solar. This should be done before using the plug-in solar.

If there are any doubts, we strongly recommend professional advice is sought before purchasing and installing plug-in solar.

If the panels do not meet the legal requirements, then you can ask the occupants to remove the uncompliant plug-in solar panels.

Yes, the total capacity is capped at 800W (watts) across a maximum of four panels in no more than two sets. With only one plug-in per property being allowed and the use of extensions not being permitted. Notably the regulations don’t permit the use of plug-in batteries than may be associated with the installation.

If you already have solar panels at your property or desire to install more than 800W, you must use a qualified installer. You may need to apply for G98/G99 approval with the additional generation being wired in not plugged in.

With the rise of online shopping it is easy to buy cheap systems that are not compliant. The regulations are in place to protect life, property and the grid from the risks of electric and chemical fire risks. If any occupiers or landlords are in doubt, do consult a qualified electrician. Your insurer may also have a scheme of best practice that they will want you to follow, touching on the following:

• Be integrated into any periodic inspection and EICR schedule. A fire risk and electrical assessment of your property should become a periodic item.
• If any electrical appliances are provided as part of any occupation agreement, the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994 require them (as a supplier of electrical equipment) to ensure the appliances are safe when first supplied. With yearly tests by a qualified electrician carrying out a portable appliance testing (PAT) safety test on any portable electrical equipment. As it would be where the occupants instal the appliances.
• Check your insurance policy.

Plug-in solar panels should only be purchased from reputable companies. Whether this is a reputable firm of electricians who are NICEIC (National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting) accredited or from shops such as B&Q, Screwfix, Wickes and Currys.

Extreme care is required when ordering online, as the nature of the product maybe unclear. It is important to emphasise that the cheapest deal isn’t necessary the best deal. As noticeably cheaper products are more likely to be uncompliant, less efficient and may come with a safety risk.

Landlords should be aware of their obligations to ensure that they require with the relevant electric standards and ensure that the property is fit for habitation. More information for English and Welsh regulations concerning let housing can be found on our residential tenancies guidance notes, including:

• Electrical Safety Standards in the private rented sector (England)
• Residential tenancies - The Renters' Rights Act
• Domestic EPCS and MEES - England and Wales
• Reducing heating costs and decarbonising heritage and other existing buildings in England and Wales