Major high street retailers join roundtable session on plug-in solar, as government prepares regulation change allowing plug-in solar. New government consultation seeks industry views ahead rule changes expected in weeks.
High street retailers are ready to stock plug-in solar, as the UK government prepares to introduce regulation changes that would make it legal for consumers to self-install.
Lidl was already backing the proposal in March 2026 when the government first announced its plan to make plug-in solar available “within months” and the number of retailers supporting the plan has swelled. Amazon, Asda, B&Q, Currys, Screwfix and Wickes all joined a government roundtable event to discuss how the technology can provide a cheaper route for households to install solar, ahead of expected regulation changes in summer 2026.
The announcement coincided with the launch of a new government consultation setting out the proposed rule changes that would allow consumers to self-install plug-in solar panels.
While plug-in solar is already widely used in a number of European markets, regulation has hindered deployment in the United Kingdom. Under current rules applying to Great Britain, electrical installations must comply with British Standards requirements – principally BS 7671. These standards are designed for fixed installations, meaning plug-in generation devices are not readily accommodated. Plug and socket regulations also set out standards that plugs must conform to.
