Plug-in solar panels are coming to a shop near you
Plug-in solar panels are becoming available in UK retail stores following a regulatory change. These systems are designed for balconies and outdoor spaces, offering a more affordable entry point into solar energy than rooftop installations.
Why it matters
It represents a shift in energy policy toward decentralized, consumer-accessible renewable power generation.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, A solar panel on a balcony in Germany where homes are using plug-ins for power
Plug-in solar panels will be hitting the shelves of DIY shops and High Street retailers after the government changed the rules to allow them to be legally sold in the UK.
They are significantly cheaper than roof panels, can be installed without an electrician and are suitable for properties with outdoor space, including some balconies.
Retailers including Argos will be stocking products from Thursday, and the government expects other shops to follow suit.
It hopes plug-in solar panels will help households save money and reduce reliance on overseas fuel sources, the price of which has fluctuated in recent months due to the Middle East conflict.
Customers should get their wiring checked by a professional to ensure it is safe before parting with cash, experts say.
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