How should a 'plug-in' solar kit with a battery be connected legally?
Short answer
Kits with a battery fall outside the plug-in route because they can store energy, so treat them as ordinary fixed generation. Hardwire them by a competent electrician to BS 7671 on a suitable circuit, for example a switched fused connection unit, notify the DNO under G98 or G99 with a type-tested inverter, and self-certify or notify building control as needed.
Last checked 24 September 2026 · 1 source
In more detail
- SI 2026/848 excludes devices designed to import energy for later supply; spec excludes 'plug-in solar PV devices integrated with battery systems'.
- Ofgem: 'Plug-in Electricity Storage devices will... remain prohibited from being sold, supplied, or used'.
- BS 7671 A4 551.7.1 requires suitable (bidirectional) protective devices; Chapter 57 and PAS 63100 apply to the battery location in dwellings.
- Check the product is listed as G98 compliant for the hardwired output rating (e.g. 2.5 kW).
The facts, dated
- 01Plug-in storage devices remain prohibited in GB under current rules — prohibited
regulation · GB · checked 24 September 2026 · Ofgem
What we saw in the field
[QA review 2026-09-24] P-1 AGREES; P-10 ADDS (dedicated radial is the normal design; FCU on a final circuit needs 551.7.2 checks); P-11 UNVERIFIABLE. | Earlier notes: Jackery SolarVault 3 Pro Max: 2.5 kW hardwired output, 800 W on plug; hardwired via switched FCU with 13 A fuse after the ring was extended (the socket was a spur) - agrees with 'hardwire by electrician' route.
Sources
Last checked: 24 September 2026