Plug-In Solar Is Legal from 27 August 2026
SI 2026 No. 848 comes into force on 27 August, making plug-in solar legal in the UK. Here's what it means and what you can buy.
What Just Happened?
On 16 July 2026, the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) made SI 2026 No. 848, a statutory instrument that amends the Plugs and Sockets etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994. This law comes into force on 27 August 2026.
From that date, it is legal to sell and use a "plug-in microgenerator" — the official term for what we call plug-in solar — in the UK.
This is the culmination of a process that started with the government announcement in March 2026 and moved through BS 7671 Amendment 4, the DESNZ consultation, and the publication of the Interim Product Specification v2.
What Does SI 2026 No. 848 Actually Say?
The statutory instrument amends existing safety regulations to create a legal exemption for plug-in microgenerators that meet the Interim Product Specification. In plain English:
- 800VA / 3.5A maximum AC output
- Up to 2000W DC panel input
- Must use a BS 1363 plug with a 5A fuse
- No battery in the plug circuit
- No extension leads — direct plug into a wall socket only
- One device per household
- Must comply with the DESNZ Interim Product Specification
What Can You Buy Right Now?
As of 14 August 2026, no kits are yet certified to the Interim Product Specification. The first compliant kit — the EcoFlow STREAM — is expected to launch in September 2026, with early-bird pre-orders open from 12 August to 15 September.
The government has briefed major retailers including B&Q, Currys, Amazon, Lidl, Asda, Screwfix, and Wickes, all of whom are expected to stock compliant kits once available.
What About Existing DIY Setups?
If you've already set up a DIY system with a Hoymiles microinverter or APsystems EZ1-M, your setup doesn't automatically become legal on 27 August. The law requires kits to meet the Interim Product Specification — which means they need to be sold as a certified complete system, not assembled from parts.
That said, enforcement is expected to focus on retailers selling non-compliant products, not on individual households with existing setups.
How Does This Affect Your Energy Bills?
An 800W plug-in solar kit in southern England generates roughly 850–950 kWh per year. At the current Ofgem cap of 24.5p/kWh, that's a saving of £115–£130 per year in reduced imports (assuming 55% self-consumption).
With higher self-consumption — achievable with smart home automation and load shifting — savings can reach £200+ per year.
Use our calculator to get an estimate for your postcode.
What About the £25m Government Pilot?
The government announced a £25m pilot programme on 21 April 2026, aimed at providing plug-in solar kits to low-income households. Details on eligibility and application are expected alongside the first kit launches in September.
What Happens Next?
- 27 August 2026: SI 2026/848 comes into force — plug-in solar is legal
- September 2026: EcoFlow STREAM launches as the first certified kit
- Late 2026: More retailers begin stocking kits from multiple manufacturers
- 2027+: BSI publishes the full product standard, replacing the interim spec
- 800W dual-panel plug-in solar kit
- 600Wh battery with smart scheduling
- App monitoring with real-time generation data
- Balcony, garden & flat-roof mounts available
- Discounts on solar panels, batteries & kits
- STREAM kits and accessories included
- Free UK delivery on qualifying orders
- Sale ends 31 August 2026
Should You Wait or Pre-Order Now?
If you're ready to commit, the EcoFlow STREAM early-bird pre-order offers the best launch pricing. If you'd rather wait for more choice, retailers like B&Q and Currys will likely stock alternatives from late 2026.
Either way, use the savings calculator now so you know exactly what to expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is plug-in solar legal in the UK right now?
From 27 August 2026, yes. SI 2026 No. 848 comes into force on that date, making it legal to sell and use certified plug-in microgenerators.
Do I need an electrician to install plug-in solar?
No. Compliant kits are designed to be plugged into a standard 13A wall socket by the householder. You do need to notify your DNO within 28 days.
Can renters install plug-in solar?
Yes. Plug-in solar is specifically designed for renters and flat-dwellers. The system is portable — you take it when you move.
Related reading
See how much plug-in solar could save you — with real data for your postcode.