Plug-in solar panels are now legal across Great Britain, following a regulation change that the UK government said could save families up to GBP 110 ($150) per year.

From Aug. 27, consumers in Great Britain will be able to buy and install plug-in solar kits with capacity up to 800 W – a power output that cover up to 20% of an average home’s electricity use, according to the UK government. Households can install one array up to 800 W themselves, with no requirement to use a certified installer. The regulation change does not apply to households in Northern Ireland.

While plug-in solar is already widely used in European markets such as Germany, British regulations had until now hindered deployment in the United Kingdom. Amendments to UK plug and socket regulations and electricity safety regulations have opened up the plug-in solar market, although plug-in battery storage devices are not covered by the changes.

Information and guidance for consumers interested in plug-in solar has already been released by the UK’s Energy Saving Trust. The UK government has also removed the need to apply for planning permission for plug-in solar in England. Scotland and Wales set their own planning rules.

Large UK multiple retailers have voiced support for the change, and some have been in consultation with the UK government since it committed to plug-in solar in March 2026. Many expect to offer products now or in the near future. A spokesperson from Screwfix told pv magazine the trade tool and hardware retailer plans to offer plug-in solar to customers in the fall.

Commenting in a UK government press release, Graham Biggart, managing director of catalogue retailer Argos, said the company was “really pleased to now offer plug-in solar panels” for its customers. Amazon country manager John Boumphrey confirmed the online retailer will distribute plug-in solar products to UK consumers, with other major retailers such as Currys and Wickes also planning to list solar product lines.

Solar industry figures have welcomed the change. Chris Hewett, CEO of Solar Energy UK said making plug-in solar lawful would bring “cheap, clean power to households that have not been able to access these benefits before.”

While plug-in battery storage products are not covered by the rule change, Jason Howlett, chief executive officer, Energy Storage Association (ESA), told pv magazine the ESA is in discussions with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero about a full safety review of plug in batteries as part of an ongoing study that will evaluate different plug-in, self-installed battery products on sale around the world.

Howlett noted that while the association would “wholeheartedly support the safe introduction of ‘balcony’ plug-in devices,” more work is required, particularly on safety standards. UK battery storage regulations set a high bar for installers, strongly favoring outdoor installations and requiring checks of wiring and consumer units. Possible standards for plug-in batteries and their impact on household circuits are under investigation.