Solar · Fitting
What are the rules for plug-in (balcony) solar in the UK?
Short answer
Since 27 August 2026, plug-in solar is legal in Great Britain. A kit may output at most 800 W through a standard plug, have up to 2,000 W of panels, and must meet DESNZ's product specification. Only one per household is allowed for now, with no extension leads, and you must notify the network operator.
Last checked 24 September 2026 · 2 sources
In more detail
- SI 2026/848 definition: sunlight; <=800 W AC; standard plug; parallel with grid; not designed to store imported energy.
- Spec v2.0: 800 VA/3.5 A; max 4 modules, max 2 in series; outdoor socket IP55; not on timber cladding/balconies.
- NI: spec application under further consideration.
The facts, dated
- 01Plug-in microgenerator maximum rated AC output — 800 W
regulation · GB · checked 24 September 2026 · legislation.gov.uk
- 02Plug-in solar legal in GB from — 2026-08-27
regulation · GB · checked 24 September 2026 · legislation.gov.uk
- 03Maximum total PV module DC power for a plug-in device — 2000 W
standard · GB · checked 24 September 2026 · GOV.UK
- 04Only one plug-in device per household under G98 Issue 2 Amendment 1 (2026), per DESNZ spec — 1 device
standard · GB · checked 24 September 2026 · GOV.UK
Sources
- legislation.gov.uk — www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2026/848/made
- GOV.UK — assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/6a60a03c47af652afa0c89f5/plug-in-solar-fi…
Last checked: 24 September 2026