Where to Buy Plug-In Solar in the UK: Every Retailer
B&Q, Currys, Amazon, Screwfix, Lidl — which retailers will stock plug-in solar kits and when? Updated for August 2026.
The Current Picture (August 2026)
As of mid-August 2026, no UK retailer is yet selling a certified plug-in solar kit. That changes in September when EcoFlow STREAM launches.
However, SI 2026 No. 848 comes into force on 27 August 2026, making it legal to sell compliant kits. Here's which retailers are expected to stock them and when.
Confirmed Retailers
The government has briefed the following retailers, who attended a roundtable with Minister Martin McCluskey:
B&Q
The UK's largest DIY retailer is a natural fit for plug-in solar. B&Q already sells traditional solar panel accessories and has the shelf space for complete kits. Expected to stock kits from late 2026.
Currys
As the UK's main electronics retailer, Currys is well-positioned to sell the more tech-oriented kits with app monitoring. Expected to stock kits from late 2026.
Amazon UK
Amazon will likely be among the first retailers to offer plug-in solar kits, given their existing relationship with EcoFlow and Anker SOLIX. Currently selling components (panels, power stations) that aren't yet certified as plug-in microgenerators.
Screwfix
Trade-focused Screwfix is expected to stock kits aimed at tradespeople and confident DIYers. Their existing solar accessories range makes them a logical stockist.
Lidl
Lidl's plug-in solar plans have generated huge interest. Expected to offer a budget-friendly kit in the £300–500 range, likely from autumn 2026. Lidl's limited-time "Middle of Lidl" approach means availability may be sporadic.
Asda and Wickes
Both were at the government roundtable. Asda would represent the first supermarket outside Lidl to stock kits. Wickes positions alongside B&Q for the DIY market.
EcoFlow Direct
EcoFlow's online store will sell the STREAM kit directly from September 2026. Early-bird pre-orders open 12 August – 15 September with discounted pricing.
- 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
Specialist Solar Retailers
- City Plumbing: Trade-focused, likely to stock higher-end kits with technical support
- UKSOL: British solar panel manufacturer supporting DESNZ — may offer direct-to-consumer kits
- Solar distributors: Companies like Segen, Midsummer, and Wind & Sun may stock kits for the installer market
Price Expectations
Based on current market intelligence:
| Kit Type | Expected Price | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Budget (400W) | £200–350 | Lidl special buy |
| Mid-range (600W) | £350–550 | Lidl/B&Q branded |
| Premium (800W) | £500–800 | EcoFlow STREAM |
| Premium + battery | £800–1,200 | EcoFlow STREAM with battery |
What to Look For When Buying
- IPS v2 compliance marking — the kit must be certified
- 5A fuse in the BS 1363 plug
- Complete system — panels, inverter, cabling, plug all included
- Warranty — look for at least 5 years on the inverter
- App monitoring — not required but highly recommended
Read our full buying checklist before you purchase.
Should I wait for Lidl's budget kit?
If budget is your priority, waiting for Lidl could save £200–400 compared to premium kits. But availability will be limited and you won't get app-based monitoring.
Can I buy from European retailers?
European kits (designed for Schuko plugs) won't meet the UK's BS 1363 requirements. Only kits certified to the DESNZ Interim Product Specification are legal in the UK.
Is it worth pre-ordering the EcoFlow STREAM?
If you want to be among the first to install legal plug-in solar in the UK, the early-bird pre-order offers the best launch pricing.
See how much plug-in solar could save you — with real data for your postcode.