Plug-in solar kits became legal to sell and use in Great Britain today, 27 August 2026, when SI 2026/848 came into force (legislation.gov.uk). The regulations were made on 16 July. They amend two sets of rules that had blocked plug-in kits: the plug and socket safety regulations, and the electricity safety regulations that required generators to meet British Standards. BS 1363 itself says plugs must not be used to connect generators (IET).
What the law now allows:
- A plug-in solar kit with an AC output of no more than 800 W, plugged into an ordinary wall socket.
- The kit must comply with the DESNZ Interim Product Specification. Among other things, that means a moulded plug with a fuse of 5 A or less going straight into a fixed socket (no extension leads), no more than 2,000 W of panels, and no batteries (IPS).
- Kits must be listed as Compliant on the ENA Type Test Register.
Network rules changed too. Ofgem approved an amendment to G98 on 11 August, taking effect today. It allows one plug-in device per household and requires you to notify your DNO when you install or remove one (Ofgem). DESNZ says that should be done within 28 days of installation (impact assessment, para 25). In England, a separate order (SI 2026/896) adds plug-in solar to permitted development from the same day, with exclusions for listed buildings and timber walls, balconies and fences (legislation.gov.uk).
Two limits to note. Northern Ireland isn’t covered: the electricity safety change doesn’t extend there. And you still need permission from a landlord or freeholder if you don’t own the building.
DESNZ says kits could save households “up to £110 a year” (DESNZ). Your figure depends on where the kit goes and when you use electricity.
Full details are in our guide: is plug-in solar legal?