Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about plug-in solar for your home and garden.
How It Works
- What is plug-in solar?
- Plug-in solar (also called balcony solar or micro-solar) lets you generate your own electricity using solar panels connected to a standard UK plug socket via a microinverter. The electricity feeds directly into your home's circuits, reducing what you draw from the grid.
- Do I need to connect it to my fuse box?
- No. Our systems plug into a standard 13-amp socket — no rewiring, no fuse-box work, and no electrician required. The microinverter converts the DC output from the panels into AC electricity that your home can use immediately.
- What happens on cloudy days?
- Solar panels still generate electricity on overcast days — typically 10–25% of their rated output. Our bifacial panels are particularly efficient in diffuse light. On very low-light days your home simply draws the remainder from the grid as normal.
Planning Permission
- Do I need planning permission?
- In most cases, no. Freestanding garden solar panels are generally permitted development in England and Wales, provided they meet size and siting guidelines. We recommend checking with your local planning authority if you live in a conservation area, a listed building, or a flat.
- Are there any restrictions for rented properties?
- You will need your landlord's written permission before installing any solar equipment. Because our systems are freestanding and plug-in, they are easier to approve and remove than roof-mounted alternatives — many landlords are happy to agree.
Installation
- How long does installation take?
- Most systems can be installed in 4 hours.
- Where is best to position the panels?
- South-facing is ideal, but south-east or south-west also works well. Aim for a clear view of the sky with minimal shading from trees or buildings between 9am and 4pm. A tilt angle of 30–45° suits most UK locations.
- Can I move the panels once they are installed?
- Moving panels is possible. If the system is freestanding, you can reposition it whenever you like. Many customers want their systems fixed for safety and durability reasons which eliminates easy portability.
Savings & Payback
- How much could I save on my electricity bill?
- A typical 800W system in the UK generates around 600–700 kWh per year. At current average electricity prices of around 24p per kWh, that equates to roughly £145–£170 in annual savings. Actual savings depend on your location, panel orientation, and how much electricity you use during daylight hours.
- How long before the system pays for itself?
- Most customers see payback within 3–5 years, depending on the system size and local electricity prices. After payback, the electricity generated is effectively free for the remaining 20+ year lifespan of the panels.
- Can I export surplus electricity to the grid?
- Plug-in systems are designed to offset your own consumption first and each system can be designed to cover the base-load cost efficiently. Unused electric energy is provided back to the grid with no compensation.
Compatibility
- Will it work with my existing electricity meter?
- Yes. Plug-in solar works with all standard UK electricity meters, including smart meters. The system simply reduces the amount of electricity your meter records as imported from the grid.
- Is it compatible with a home battery?
- Our current plug-in kits are designed for direct consumption rather than battery storage.
- Does it work in all UK regions?
- Yes. We supply and support customers across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Solar irradiance does vary by region — southern England receives around 20% more solar energy than northern Scotland — but all UK regions benefit meaningfully from solar generation.
Still have questions?
Our team is happy to help. Get in touch and we will answer any questions specific to your home and garden.
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