From Thursday 27 August, plug-in solar panels will be legally available for sale across Great Britain, following a rule change introduced by the Labour Party government. This development opens doors for retailers including supermarkets, DIY chains, and electrical stores to offer these renewable energy products directly to consumers.
Several well-known retailers have been collaborating with the government to prepare for the market launch of plug-in solar technology. Lidl, B&Q, Currys, and Amazon have played significant roles in these efforts, with other companies such as Asda, Screwfix, and Wickes also participating in discussions regarding the introduction and safety standards of the product.
Rob Hallifax, co-founder of Windfall Energy, emphasised that while this is a positive step, consumers should maintain realistic expectations. He noted that a sunlit balcony, terrace, or other suitable outdoor space is necessary for effective use of the panels. Additionally, some households may require permission from landlords or freeholders before installation.
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B&Q’s chief executive, Graham Bell, expressed the company’s commitment to ensuring that any plug-in solar panel products offered are safe, compliant with regulations, and straightforward to install. “We look forward to making plug-in solar available to our customers as soon as possible,” Bell stated following a government roundtable meeting.
Michelle Gorringe-Smith, director of new categories at Currys, also welcomed the initiative, highlighting their cooperation with the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero to bring the technology to market.
Amazon has publicly supported the introduction of self-install plug-in solar systems. John Boumphrey, Amazon’s UK and Ireland country manager, described the initiative as an excellent opportunity to enhance renewable energy accessibility across the country. He added, “Enabling households to generate their own power with self-install plug-in solar panels is a practical step that supports household budgets and helps deliver on net zero goals.”
Experts estimate that using plug-in solar panels could help households reduce their energy bills by approximately £70 to £110 annually, making this both an environmentally and financially beneficial development.