Despite this summer bringing hours of sunshine, many Britons have been unable to cash in on free electricity generated by the sun. Rooftop solar panels are usually out of the question if you live in a flat or rent your home, and the cost has made them prohibitive to many more households. However, this could be about to change because next week the first wave of low-cost “plug-in” solar panels will go on sale in Great Britain.
Also known as “plug‑and‑play” or “balcony” solar, the clue to what makes them different is in the name: you can fix them to a balcony or garden wall, then plug them in like a toaster. The mini solar systems are a familiar sight on balconies in Spain and in Germany, where they are known as a Balkonkraftwerk (balcony power plant), but until a recent change in the law, they were not permitted in Britain. Matt Parry from the Renewable Energy Association, a trade body for renewable energy, says the kits are a gamechanger.
Unlike traditional rooftop solar panels, which require a professional to install, balcony solar kits – which commonly include one or two panels – can be plugged in to a three-prong wall socket. You can fix them on a balcony railing, shed roof or garden wall – anywhere with good sun exposure and safe access. When sunlight hits the solar panels, they generate a direct current.
The microinverter then converts this to an alternating current, which flows into your home’s electrical system, reducing the amount you draw from the grid. Previously, rules around the installation of solar were what was holding people back. But last year the government announced it would make it possible for plug-in solar to be used in this country.
To make this a reality, it has updated wiring regulations to allow households in Great Britain to connect plug-in solar panels capable of generating up to 800 watts of power into the mains without the need for an electrician. (The rules are different in Northern Ireland.) Big names including B&Q, Currys, Lidl, Wickes and Amazon are lining up to sell plug-in solar. Given the size (and weight) of these devices, it is expected that many will be bought online. Although you may have already come across plug-in solar panels for sale, industry experts suggest waiting until the regulations take effect on 27 August before making a purchase.
Electrical Safety First, the consumer safety charity, is urging shoppers to stick to reputable high street retailers and their websites to ensure the device complies with the rules. Luke Osborne, the charity’s technical director, advises people to “avoid buying these devices from third-party sellers on online marketplaces. These platforms are now not legally responsible for the safety of goods sold via their sites, exposing people to substandard versions that may put you and your home at risk.” Andrew Moore, the founder of the British solar panel brand UKSOL, says: “We are working towards making the initial products available from 27 August.” His company will initially sell 460W and 890W kits, starting at £599 and £999 respectively, and it plans to launch another four models in late September, with prices starting from £499.
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