Regulations come into force allowing 800 W plug-in solar kits to be installed in England, Wales and Scotland. Plug-in batteries currently excluded, but under investigation.
Plug-in solar panels are now legal across Great Britain, following a regulation change that the UK government said could save families up to GBP 110 ($150) per year.
From Aug. 27, consumers in Great Britain will be able to buy and install plug-in solar kits with capacity up to 800 W – a power output that cover up to 20% of an average home’s electricity use, according to the UK government. Households can install one array up to 800 W themselves, with no requirement to use a certified installer. The regulation change does not apply to households in Northern Ireland.
While plug-in solar is already widely used in European markets such as Germany, British regulations had until now hindered deployment in the United Kingdom. Amendments to UK plug and socket regulations and electricity safety regulations have opened up the plug-in solar market, although plug-in battery storage devices are not covered by the changes.
Information and guidance for consumers interested in plug-in solar has already been released by the UK’s Energy Saving Trust. The UK government has also removed the need to apply for planning permission for plug-in solar in England. Scotland and Wales set their own planning rules.
