With plug-in solar set to be sold in supermarkets from the end of August, Carl Hogg – Managing Director at Good Energy – looks at what this means for consumers, how they work, who they are best suited for, and how they compare with rooftop solar and other home energy solutions:
Plug-in solar is an exciting development because it lowers the barrier to entry and makes it easier for more households to start generating their own electricity – particularly renters or those without access to a suitable roof.
But it’s important people understand the trade-off. These systems are much smaller and only generate a limited amount of power, so while they can help reduce bills slightly, they won’t deliver the same impact as a full rooftop installation. For anyone considering solar, it’s worth taking advice and thinking carefully about what’s right for your home and how much energy you use.
Plug-in solar can be a good entry point, but if you’re able to install it, rooftop solar remains the most effective way to significantly cut bills and gain long-term energy independence.
Pros and Cons of Plug-in Solar
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Pros
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Cons
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Low upfront cost
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Limited savings
Can only save up to £110 per year, compared to £975 per year with rooftop solar. |
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No installation required
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Not optimised
You could lose potential savings due to poor positioning or shading. |
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More accessible for some
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Difficulty with export payments
Harder to earn money from excess energy produced. |
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Reduced reliance on the grid
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Limited battery integration
Less ability to store unused energy for later use. |
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Low commitment
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Real-time usage required
If you’re out during the day, you may miss most of the benefit. |
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Long-term reliability risks
Warranties and support may be uncertain if manufacturers exit the market. |
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Safety considerations
Higher risk of electrical faults or poor installation. |
