Plug-in solar just became legal in the UK — here are 5 things you need to know, from prices to potential savings

After proving popular across Europe, plug-in solar is now legally allowed in the UK .

That means you can buy a solar panel for your balcony or shed roof, and plug it straight into the mains — no roof mounting or professional installation necessary, in theory at least.

It makes it simpler and quicker to start saving on your electricity bills, and of course it's a boon for renters who don't own their own home (or the roof on top of it).

Plug-in solar packs are now going to start popping up in stores, and you're free to go and get one.

If you've got questions about the tech — what's legal and what isn't, where you can put these panels, or how much you can save, for example — we're here to answer them.

Here's everything you need to know about plug-in solar tech in the UK from August 27, 2026.

1.

The new regulations only cover complete plug-in solar kits (Image credit: Getty Images / imageBROKER / Robert Poorten) If you're heading out or going online to look for some new plug-in solar panels, note that you need to buy complete kits to stay on the right side of the law: panels, an inverter, a cable, a plug, and any relevant mounting hardware.

Look for kits that meet the Plug-in Solar Device Interim Product Specification published by the government .

These kits have to stick to limits of 800 volt-amps of output and 3.5 amps of current, while you're limited to up to 2,000 watts of overall solar energy capture.

These limits are all designed to protect your mains electricity and your home against damage and accidents.

With that in mind, you're only allowed to connect one plug-in solar panel kit per property.

You can also check to see which approved kits are available at the likes of the Plug-In Solar Register .

2.