Could plug-in solar cut your electricity bill?
Learn how plug-in solar works, check the latest UK rules and estimate how much electricity a small solar system could generate at your property.
- Independent — we don't sell or install
- Built around the latest UK rules
Example: a south-facing 800W system in the South West generates roughly 750–800 kWh a year. Check your postcode for a tailored estimate.
UK legal status
Where the UK rules stand right now
Plug-in solar became legal to use in Great Britain on 27 August 2026. We track the position and date it, so you always know what's confirmed and what isn't.
Legal to use in Great Britain since 27 August 2026
Last reviewed:
Plug-in solar is now legal to use in Great Britain. SI 2026/848 came into force on 27 August 2026 and Ofgem has approved the G98 connection changes — only kits listed on the ENA Type Test Register may be used, and Northern Ireland is not covered.
- Consultation closed
- 30 June 2026
- Government response
- 16 July 2026
- Regulations in force
- 27 August 2026
Why MyPlugInSolar
An independent guide as the UK rules bed in
Clear, honest information to help you decide whether plug-in solar is right for your home.
UK rules now in force
The regulations came into force on 27 August 2026; a kit is only lawful if listed as compliant on the ENA Type Test Register. We track the changes so you always know what is and isn't currently allowed.
Independent product comparisons
We don't sell or install systems, so we have nothing to push. Our comparisons are based on specifications, value and real-world suitability.
Location-based savings estimates
Generation depends on where you live and where your panels face. Our calculator estimates output for your specific property.
The basics
How plug-in solar works
A small system designed to offset everyday background electricity use, in three simple stages.
Step 1
Place the panels
Set up one or two compact panels on a balcony, wall, garden or flat roof — wherever they catch the most daylight.
Step 2
Connect the system
A microinverter converts the energy into mains-compatible electricity, ready to feed into your home.
Step 3
Use the electricity generated
Your appliances draw the solar electricity first, helping to reduce how much you pull from the grid.
The rules aren't finalised yet
The final UK legal and technical requirements for plug-in solar are still being confirmed. Always follow current UK regulations and the manufacturer's instructions before connecting any system. See the latest UK status.
Suitability
Is plug-in solar right for your home?
Plug-in solar suits many different living situations. Explore the guide for your type of property.
Guides
Latest plug-in solar guidance
Plain-English answers to the questions people ask most about plug-in solar in the UK.
- Performance
How much electricity can an 800W system generate?
What can you actually expect from an 800W system? We explain the factors that change real-world output.
Read guide - Comparisons
Plug-in solar versus rooftop solar
Two very different approaches to home solar. We compare cost, output, effort and flexibility side by side.
Read guide - Property guides
Plug-in solar for balconies
Balcony solar is hugely popular across Europe. Here's what to know for a UK balcony setup.
Read guide - Equipment
Flexible solar panels: what to know in the UK
Lightweight and bendable, but with real trade-offs. Where flexible panels make sense — and where they don't.
Read guide - Output & savings
East vs west-facing solar panels
South isn't the only option. How east and west compare for output and timing.
Read guide - Output & savings
Plug-in solar in winter
Solar still works in winter — just less. What to expect from the darker months.
Read guide
Get notified when UK-compliant plug-in solar products launch
We'll let you know when new kits are listed as compliant on the ENA register and when the rules change.