Plug-in solar guide
Yes. Plug-in solar kits that meet the UK requirements can now be used in the UK, except Northern Ireland. The exact kit must be listed on the ENA device register, fitted as instructed and registered after installation.
You can install a plug-in solar kit without an electrician if the exact kit is listed on the ENA device register and your home electrics and chosen socket are suitable.
Last reviewed 30/08/2026
Since 27 August 2026
A kit listed on the ENA device register can be connected directly to a suitable fixed wall socket instead of being hard-wired by an electrician.
What is allowed
One listed plug-in solar kit per property, with a maximum AC output of 800W.
What you still need to do
Follow the instructions, use a suitable socket, get any property permission you need and register the kit.
What is not included
Plug-in batteries, kits with built-in battery storage, or systems put together from separately bought parts.
The kit
Before buying, check that the exact kit is listed on the ENA device register. The panels, inverter, cables and mounting should be supplied together and used exactly as instructed.
An inverter or solar panel bought on its own is not a complete plug-in solar kit. It needs to be installed as part of a standard solar installation.
A system made from separately bought parts is not treated as an approved plug-in solar kit.
Registration
After installation, register your kit using the official UK Plug-In Solar Registration service. This tells your local electricity network operator about the system. Your network operator is not your energy supplier.
1. Open the registration service
Go to myplugin.solar using the link below.
2. Enter your details
Add your address and select the exact kit shown in your product documents.
3. Keep the confirmation
Save the confirmation with your product documents.
Register your plug-in solar kit at myplugin.solar. We provide the product details you need.
Renting, flats and leasehold
The electrical rules and property permission are separate. Check what your tenancy agreement, lease or building manager allows before installing anything.
Renting
Check your tenancy agreement and ask your landlord in writing. Most agreements cover fixtures and alterations to the outside of the building.
Leasehold or a flat
Check the lease and the building management. Balcony railings and external walls are often communal, even when the balcony is yours to use.
Listed or conservation area
Ask your local planning authority before you buy. Rules on what may be visible from the street can be strict.
Good to know
“It is certified in Germany, so it is fine here.” Not automatically. Check that the exact kit is listed on the UK ENA device register.
“I will be paid for electricity I export.” Not automatically. Export payments have separate requirements, so base your savings on the solar electricity you use at home.
“No electrician means no rules.” You still need the right kit, a suitable socket, any property permission and registration after installation.
“More panels must be better.” Plug-in solar is limited to one listed kit per property and 800W AC. Larger systems need a standard solar installation.
Before you plug anything in
A plug-in system feeds power into the circuit it is plugged into. That puts a few practical limits on where it can go.
Use a wall socket directly
Not an extension lead, not a multi-way adapter, not a reel. The connection should be a fixed socket outlet.
One kit per property
Do not connect a second plug-in kit or chain systems together.
Old wiring needs a look
If you do not know the age or condition of your consumer unit and circuits, have an electrician check before you connect anything.
Yes. Plug-in solar kits that meet the UK requirements can now be used in the UK, except Northern Ireland. Check that the exact kit is listed on the ENA device register, use a suitable fixed wall socket and follow the supplied instructions.
Yes. After installation, register the kit using the official UK Plug-In Solar Registration service. Solarfy provides the product details you need.
Yes. Electrical compliance and permission are separate questions, and permission usually comes down to your tenancy agreement or lease.
It may flow out to the grid. You are not automatically paid for it because export payments have separate requirements.
No. An inverter bought on its own is not a complete plug-in solar kit. It needs to be installed as part of a standard solar installation.
Plug-in solar is limited to one kit per property and 800W AC. A larger system needs a standard solar installation.