Plug-in Solar Panels: Are They Worth It for UK Homes? By DIYnot / April 28, 2026

[ericmark]

Is it not time this was updated?

 

[ericmark]

It seems the interest in plug in solar has waned, likely as it does not include batteries? I note this month only 2/3 of the output to last month, so it seems as far as solar goes, missed the boat, by September looking at 1/2 the output of peak months. Looking at March and April now before we see the output raise again.

 

[denso13]

seems the interest in plug in solar has waned, likely as it does not include batteries?

It hasn't started yet?

 

[ericmark]

It hasn't started yet?

Agreed, however we were seeing loads about people jumping the gun, and what it would or would not mean, to those buying in to the plug and pray idea.

Once we knew what was going to be permitted, it all went silent, I did look at it, as my panels are orientated south-west, so in the morning I don't get so much. Wall mounted panels south-east, would get the morning sun, but with batteries and off-peak, it is the evening when we run out, not the morning, so with off-peak as it stands today, not worth it, if off-peak or export rates change, then it may be worth getting more panels.

As yet, not seen a single report where what is to become legal only is used. They either have existing panels so get paid for export, or batteries, so no idea as to how much the punter gets, and how much free power the energy providers gets.

I see all aimed at the rental sector, since only time I rented a flat was in Hong Kong, not sure what outside sockets are normally found in a UK rented property?

The battery powered hedge cutter, brush cutter, strimmer, or lopper has resulted in little need for an outside socket. I have three, and still use a mains powered lawn mower, and hedge cutter, but as to if those outside sockets are suitable for plug in solar, not so cut and dried.

 

[denso13]

I see all aimed at the rental sector

It isn't just aimed at that, but can suit well in that situation.

and what it would or would not mean

It just means they need to buy a little less form their supplier as they use what they generate. Not really designed for much more.