Plug-in Solar Panels: What YOU Need to Know.
On 16th July 2026, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) published its Government Response to the Plug-in Solar Consultation, alongside an Interim Product Specification for plug-in solar panels.
The response confirmed that compliant plug-in solar panels are soon to be legally sold and used in the United Kingdom. Regulations were laid in Parliament on 17th July 2026 which come into force on 27th August 2026, after which plug-in solar panels will become legal in UK shops.
Plug-in solar panels will provide an accessible way for UK residents to reduce energy costs and support the move towards net zero. However, in blocks of flats, the installation of plug-in solar panels raises important considerations around building safety, fire risk and leaseholder permissions. While these systems will soon be legal to purchase, this does not mean they can be installed without the necessary approvals.
Managing agents are likely to receive enquiries in the coming months and should be prepared to manage requests through an appropriate consent process. Proactive communication with residents before purchases are made may also be advisable.
What are plug-in solar panels?
Plug-in solar panels are small solar photovoltaic (PV) systems designed for domestic use. Unlike traditional rooftop solar installations, they are designed to connect directly to a standard household socket and are often mounted on balconies, terraces or external walls.
Until now, these products have not been legally available for sale in the UK. Following this consultation’s response in July 2026, the regulations are being changed to allow plug-in solar panels to be sold on the UK market. Once the new rules come into force, they are expected to become widely available at relatively affordable price compared with traditional rooftop solar PV systems.
What are the risks of solar plug-ins in multi-occupancy buildings?
Unlike many home improvements, plug-in solar panels are installed on or attached to the exterior of a building and connected to the electrical system. Therefore, installing equipment on balconies, external walls or other parts of a building may have implications beyond the individual home, including:
- Fire and electrical safety, especially in buildings awaiting external wall remediation. Organisations that work on electrical safety have flagged several risks relevant to all buildings here.
- The integrity of external walls and balconies. Installing panels could cause structural damage and inadequate fixtures and fittings could result in panels falling from height.
- Building safety and other regulations. All building safety legislation should be applied, as appropriate for the height of the building, and any building control or planning permission consents obtained as required.
- Rules set out in leases. This includes permissions and whether balconies or other external areas are demised to the leaseholder.
For these reasons, requests should not be treated as routine alterations. Each application should be considered individually, considering the specific characteristics of the building, and the terms of the lease.
Consent is needed ahead of buying
The Government has made clear that, although plug-in solar panels may be legal to purchase, this does not remove the need to obtain any permissions that may already be required.
Depending on the building and the terms of the lease, leaseholders may need consent from their landlord, freeholder or building owner before installing equipment. Planning permission or building control approval may also be required in some cases. Consumers are encouraged to check their lease and seek advice before purchasing or installing any equipment on balconies or external walls.
To support decision-making, DESNZ has published an independent Plug-in Solar Electrical Safety Study, which landlords, building owners and freeholders can use when assessing applications. The study examines the electrical safety of plug-in solar systems in UK domestic installations and provides evidence to support informed decisions.
What do I need to do?
Managing agents should be prepared for an increase in enquiries as these products become nationally available. Before residents purchase a plug-in solar panel, they should understand that installation may require permission, depending on the terms of their lease and the buildings ownership and management arrangements.
The Property Institute (TPI) encourages members to communicate proactively with residents, explaining that:
- Plug-in solar panels are becoming available in the UK;
- Residents should not purchase or install a system before checking whether consent is required;
- Any requests will need to be assessed on its own merits, taking account of the lease, building design, safety considerations, insurance, and any other relevant legal or technical requirements; and
- Outlining the process and specifying the point of contact for residents wishing to request permission.
Having a clear process for handling requests and providing residents with information in advance will help manage expectations, reduce unauthorised installations and support informed decision-making by all parties.
TPI Guidance Note C14 has been updated with information relating to solar plug-in panels, which can be accessed by TPI company members here.
