Government has promised that ‘plug-in’ solar panels (low-cost panels that families can put on their balconies or outdoor space) will be available in shops “within months”.
Retailers like Lidl and Amazon, alongside manufacturers such as EcoFlow, are working with government to enable them to be brought to the UK market.
Plug-in solar is already widely used by households across Europe, with Germany seeing around half a million new devices plugged in per year.
The free solar power can be used directly through a mains socket like any other device, without an installation cost, thereby reducing the amount of electricity taken from the grid and cutting energy bills.
According to the government, the easy-to-install technology could save many households significant amounts on their energy bills and help make the UK less reliant on global fossil fuel markets.
The government says has taken “decisive action” in response to the conflict in the Middle East to fight for consumers and businesses on the cost of living, and is speeding up plans for more clean, homegrown energy that the UK controls to ensure energy sovereignty and security.
Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:
“The government is determined to fight people’s corner in this crisis, which is why we have acted to prevent unfair practices like price gouging and provided immediate help for the most vulnerable facing spiralling heating oil prices.
“The Iran War has once again shown our drive for clean power is essential for our energy security so we can escape the grip of fossil fuel markets we don’t control.
“Whether through solar panels fitted as standard on new homes or making it possible for people to purchase plug-in solar in shops, we are determined to roll out clean power so we can give our country energy sovereignty.”
Georgina Hall, Corporate Affairs Director at Lidl GB, said:
“At Lidl GB, we are committed to making sustainable living affordable for everyone and we welcome the government’s move to modernise regulations in the UK. Updating the regulatory landscape for this ‘plug-and-play’ technology is a positive step towards empowering British households to manage their energy costs and support the nation’s Net Zero ambitions.”
Lorna Wallace-Smith, Head of UK Communications for EcoFlow, said:
“Allowing plug-and-play solar is a very positive step for expanding access to renewable energy in the UK. Seeing these systems available in stores by summer would be a major win for households, enabling people to take advantage of the longer, brighter days and start generating their own clean electricity straight away.
“For many households – particularly those living in flats or rented homes– solar has not always been straightforward. Plug-and-play systems remove that barrier, making it far easier to get started.
“Across Europe, similar technologies are already widely used, helping households reduce energy bills while supporting a more resilient, decentralised energy system. Solutions such as EcoFlow STREAM show how people can generate solar power from small outdoor spaces like balconies, gardens or terraces, without complex installation. With clear standards and the right regulatory framework, the UK now has a real opportunity to bring accessible solar to millions more homes – just in time for summer.”
