Simple from the start
Solar energy in three simple steps
Plug-in solar is the easiest way for UK homeowners to start generating their own clean energy. Here's exactly how it works — from choosing the ideal location to watching your bills fall.
What is plug-in solar?
Solar power without the complications
Traditional roof-based solar panels require scaffolding, roof work, planning permission, and a certified electrician. Plug-in solar is different. It's a compact, self-contained system that sits in your garden or on a south-facing wall — and connects to your home through a standard 13-amp socket.
The moment it's plugged in, it starts generating electricity. Your home draws from the solar power first, reducing how much it pulls from the grid. The result: lower bills, a smaller carbon footprint, and no tradespeople required.
All solar equipment is fully compliant with UK G98 micro-generation regulations and individually designed with everything you need to get started.
The three steps in detail
01
Placement Consultation
Find the perfect location
Find the ideal location for Gardensolar at your home that balances energy-generating potential and keeping your garden's look and feel. We can help to find the best location to minimise space and visual impact while generating maximum electricity. Unused sunny spaces, fences, walls, and hedge borders are all great opportunities for Gardensolar - we will help you find the right spot for your home.
Location Location Location
02
Setup in 2–3 hours
Installation
Plug-in Solar allows for solar panel installation without expensive tradespeople, but it doesn't mean in should not be done well. DIY or full turnkey service options available.
Once the panels are installed, we connect the panels to the micro-inverter, run the cable as needed, and plug it into any standard 13-amp socket. That's it. Most customers are up and running within two to three hours.
Set it up
03
Save £200–£400 per year
Your bills drop from day one
As soon as your kit is plugged in, it starts feeding electricity into your home. Your appliances draw from solar power first — so every unit generated is a unit you don't pay for.
On a sunny day, a 800W kit can generate enough to run your fridge, TV, and lighting simultaneously. Over a year, most customers save between £200 and £400 on their energy bills.
Start saving
Common questions
Good to know before you start
Do I need planning permission?
No. Plug-in solar systems under 800W are exempt from planning permission under UK permitted development rights.
Is it safe to plug into a normal socket?
Yes. Our micro-inverters are designed specifically for socket connection and include built-in safety features. They comply with UK electrical safety standards and the G98 micro-generation regulations.
What happens on cloudy days?
Your system will still generate electricity on overcast days — just at reduced output. The UK gets enough diffuse light for plug-in solar to be worthwhile year-round, especially in spring and summer.
Can I take it with me if I move?
Absolutely. One of the great advantages of plug-in solar is that it's fully portable. Unplug it, pack it up, and reinstall it at your new home in a few hours.
Ready to get started?
Browse our kits or get in touch for a free, no-obligation recommendation tailored to your home.