UPDATE: Plug-in solar panels arrive in Great Britain

From 27 August 2026, compliant plug-in solar panels can legally be bought and used in the UK, following changes announced by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Already more familiar in parts of Europe, plug-in photovoltaic (PV) systems are designed to make small-scale solar generation more accessible. Typically using one or more solar panels and a micro-inverter, compliant systems can feed electricity into a property through a standard electrical socket.

For insurers, brokers, landlords and property owners, it is a development worth being aware of.

A different type of solar installation

Plug-in PV systems differ from conventional roof-mounted solar installations. They are generally smaller and less complex, but they are still electrical generation equipment and introduce some specific considerations.

One of the main differences is how electricity enters the property. Rather than being hard-wired into the electrical distribution system, plug-in PV feeds electricity through an existing socket circuit.

This means product compliance, the condition and suitability of the existing electrical installation, and the protection built into the system all remain important parts of the risk picture.

There are also practical property considerations.

Where panels are positioned on balconies, walls, terraces or other external areas, secure mounting and exposure to wind and weather need to be considered. Depending on the property, landlord, freeholder, planning permissions and insurance company requirements may also be relevant.

Network operator notification requirements can still apply, while regular visual inspection can help identify deterioration, damaged cables, loose fixings or signs of overheating.

Keeping the risk proportionate

None of this means plug-in solar should be viewed as inherently high risk.

Compared with larger conventional PV installations, these systems are generally lower in complexity and scale. The important point is that, as they become more widely available, they may begin appearing at properties where solar generation has not previously formed part of the risk conversation.

For insurers and brokers, understanding what has been installed, where it has been positioned and how it is being managed will therefore become increasingly relevant.

As with many developing technologies, effective risk management is about recognising the exposure early and making sure the controls remain proportionate.

Want to know more about plug-in solar?

RiskSTOP has published a new Technical Bulletin – TB 71: Plug-in PV Systems (Domestic Use), providing further guidance on the key risk considerations.

The bulletin looks in more detail at electrical and fire risks, product compliance, network operator requirements, property permissions, mounting, inspection and maintenance, as well as considerations for insurers.

Read TB 71 – Plug-in PV Systems