tech
You can now buy plug-in solar panels for home
Households keen to cut their electricity bills without the cost and hassle of installing rooftop solar now have another option. Plug-in solar panels go on sale today, offering a cheaper and simpler way to generate some of your own electricity.

TL;DR
- Plug-in solar panel kits are now on sale in the UK, providing a simpler and cheaper alternative to rooftop solar.
- Kits cost between £350 and £400, with an estimated annual saving of up to £110, leading to a break-even point of around four years.
- These systems are ideal for balconies, gardens, and renters, but require an external socket and cannot use extension cables.
- Output is capped at 800 watts, and unlike rooftop systems, they do not allow for battery storage or payment for surplus energy.
- Permission may be needed from landlords or freeholders, and users must ensure kits are compliant and registered with their electricity network company.