Six things to know before plug-in solar panels hit UK shelves
Plug-in solar panels are portable kits designed to sit outside on a balcony or in a garden, and plug directly into your mains electricity to generate power. With plug-in solar panels hitting UK shelves on Thursday 27th August, Karen Barker, policy manager at Citizens Advice, is sharing advice for those considering a purchase or waiting on a pre-order. Karen said:
“Plug-in solar panels can help lower your energy bills by generating your own electricity. While they produce less power than traditional panels, plug-in kits are a much cheaper upfront alternative. You can only have one per household but - because you don’t need to professionally install them, and they don’t need to go on a roof - they can work well for renters and those living in flats with outdoor spaces.”
Here are Karen’s top tips to read before you buy or plug in:
Make sure it’s right for you and your home: The government estimates you could save up to £110 a year on your energy bills with a plug-in solar kit. But your actual savings will depend on how you position your panel, any shading that might block the sun, and if you have the flexibility to use appliances during the day.
You have to use it or lose it: Unlike traditional panels, you must use or lose the power you generate. The current rules mean you can’t store electricity in a battery and you can’t get paid for any unused power generated by your kit.
Check if you need permission: Read the manufacturer guidance included with your kit (and available online from Thursday 27th August) to see if you need approval first. If you rent or live in a leasehold property, speak to your landlord or freeholder. If your home is a listed building or in an area with planning restrictions, like a conservation area, speak to your local council.
Make sure you have a safe place to plug in: Follow the Energy Saving Trust’s guidance for essential safety and installation advice - like never plugging your kit into an extension lead. This guidance will also be available online from the 27th of August.
Check the kit is compliant: Make sure you buy an all-in-one kit that features a 3-pin UK plug and a UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark. If you’ve already bought one that doesn’t meet these criteria, see if you can return it, or contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service for help with making a complaint.
Register your kit with your electricity network company: Your energy network company provides the wires to your home and is different from the company you pay your bills to. You can find your network company via your electricity bill or the Energy Networks Association (ENA) website. It’s very important to register these panels on the ENA website. Instructions on how to do this are included in the Energy Saving Trust’s guidance.
Notes to editors:
Citizens Advice is the people’s champion - supporting people across England, Wales and the Channel Islands through: the national charity Citizens Advice; the network of independent local Citizens Advice charities; and the Citizens Advice consumer service.
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