Plug-in solar panels are now available in DIY shops and High Street retailers following a change in government rules. These panels are significantly cheaper than roof panels and can be installed without an electrician, making them suitable for properties with outdoor space, including some balconies.
Retailers, including Argos, will begin stocking these products from Thursday. The government anticipates that other shops will follow suit, hoping these panels will help households save money and reduce reliance on overseas fuel sources.
A one-panel kit from UK solar company UKSOL will cost £699, while a two-panel kit will be £1,089. The government expects prices to settle between £400 and £600 as competition increases. Research indicates that a household could save between £70 and £110 a year on energy bills, with the exact amount depending on panel orientation and run time.
The panels' output is deliberately modest for safety reasons, with a microinverter limiting power to 800 watts. This is enough to cover "always-on" appliances and could power about a fifth of an average household's electricity use during daylight hours. Any unconsumed power will flow back to the grid, but homes are unlikely to receive payment for this.
Experts recommend customers have their wiring checked by a professional before purchasing, particularly in older properties. Electrical Safety First advises against connecting panels through extension leads and suggests sticking to established retailers.