Plug-In Solar FAQs

Straightforward answers about UKSOL Plug-In Solar Pro kits, eligibility, installation, safety and support.

UKSOL Plug-In Solar Pro kits are complete systems designed for the new Great Britain plug-in solar framework. Only use a complete kit that is shown as compliant on the ENA Connect Direct Type Test Register and follow the instructions supplied with that exact kit.

Getting started

What is plug-in solar?

Plug-in solar is a small solar electricity system designed to connect to a suitable household socket. The panels generate direct-current electricity, a microinverter converts it to alternating current, and the electricity is used by appliances in the home. Any generation not used at that moment may flow to the grid.

When can I legally use a plug-in solar kit?

The new rules are due to take effect in Great Britain on 27 August 2026. Do not plug in or use a kit before the rules are in force unless it has been installed through a compliant professional installation route.

Are UKSOL kits compliant?

UKSOL Plug-In Solar Pro kits have compliant listings in the Plug-in Solar category of the ENA Connect Direct Type Test Register. Always check the model or reference for the exact kit you purchase, because compliance applies to the complete listed system rather than to unrelated individual components.

What is included in a UKSOL kit?

The kit contains UKSOL solar module or modules, an ENA-compliant microinverter, the specified cables and a purpose-designed mounting solution. Exact contents vary by model. Check the product listing and packing list before installation and do not substitute components.

Suitability and installation

Is plug-in solar suitable for every home?

No. You need a safe, unshaded outdoor position, a suitable professionally installed outdoor socket, a secure mounting location and enough space to follow the clearance and ballast instructions. If you are unsure about the property, socket or electrical installation, obtain advice from a qualified electrician before use.

Can I use a UKSOL kit at a flat or on a balcony?

UKSOL’s launch ground-mount kits are not offered for balcony installation. Balconies create additional wind-loading, fixing and falling-object risks and may require planning permission plus freeholder or landlord consent. Use a kit only in the locations expressly permitted by its instructions.

Do I need planning permission?

Requirements depend on the property, location and mounting method. Restrictions may apply to flats, listed buildings, conservation areas, balconies, walls and visible installations. Check with your local planning authority and obtain any landlord or freeholder consent before installation.

Do I need an electrician?

A compliant plug-in kit is designed for customer installation in accordance with its instructions. The socket itself must be suitable, correctly protected and professionally installed. Do not modify the household wiring. If there is any doubt about the socket, consumer unit, protective devices or condition of the electrical installation, use a qualified electrician.

Can I use an extension lead, adaptor or multiway socket?

No. Connect the kit only in the manner specified in the UKSOL instructions. Do not use extension leads, travel adaptors, multiway sockets, smart plugs or other unapproved intermediate devices.

Can I install more than one kit?

Do not connect multiple plug-in solar kits or combine systems unless the current rules and the instructions for the exact listed product expressly permit it. UKSOL’s launch solution should be treated as one compliant system per household.

How heavy are the panels?

A solar panel typically weighs around 25kg and is large and awkward to handle. Two capable adults should unpack and move each panel using the lifting points and method in the instructions. Do not lift in high winds.

Electrical and grid questions

What does the 800VA limit mean?

The microinverter limits the alternating-current output to a maximum of 800VA. The combined direct-current rating of the solar panels may be higher, which can help the inverter reach useful output more often in UK conditions, but the AC output remains limited by the compliant microinverter.

Do I need to notify my electricity network operator?

Follow the registration or notification process stated in the current rules and the instructions supplied with your kit. Your distribution network operator may need information identifying the exact ENA-listed product. Keep the model, serial number and compliance reference.

Will the system export electricity?

The system supplies electricity to the home first. If generation exceeds the power being used at that moment, a small surplus may flow to the grid. Payment for exported electricity is not automatic and depends on your meter, energy supplier and export tariff arrangements.

Will it work during a power cut?

No. The microinverter includes anti-islanding protection and shuts down automatically if the grid supply fails. This protects engineers working on the electricity network. A standard plug-in solar kit is not a backup power supply.

Do I need a special electricity meter?

The kit can generate electricity without a special display, but metering and export arrangements vary. A smart meter may help you understand import and export. Ask your electricity supplier about meter compatibility and any export tariff.

Performance and monitoring

How much could I save?

Savings depend on kit size, orientation, shading, location, weather, electricity price and how much solar electricity you use while it is being generated. Savings are not guaranteed. Using appliances during daylight hours can increase the proportion of solar power used in the home.

Will the panels produce 800W all day?

No. Output changes continuously with sunlight, season, temperature, orientation, shading and soiling. The inverter’s 800VA rating is a maximum limit, not a promise of constant generation.

How do I monitor generation?

Compatible UKSOL kits include app-based monitoring through the specified microinverter platform. Follow the setup instructions supplied with the kit. Internet or Wi-Fi availability may affect live monitoring but does not itself create solar generation.

Can I add a battery?

Do not connect a battery or third-party storage product unless it is expressly approved for use with the exact UKSOL kit and permitted by the current plug-in solar rules. Unapproved additions can affect safety, compliance and warranty cover.

Safety and care

Why is a compliant plug-in solar kit safe?

A compliant complete kit is assessed against the applicable product, electrical and grid-connection requirements. Safety also depends on correct siting, secure mounting, the specified ballast, a suitable socket and following every instruction. Never mix components from different systems.

What happens in bad weather?

Use the mounting system, ballast and permitted locations stated in the instructions. Do not install or move panels in high winds. Inspect the system after severe weather and stop using it if the mounting has shifted or any component is damaged. Follow any wind, snow and exposure limits for the kit.

Can I walk on the panels?

No. Never sit, stand or walk on a solar panel. Hidden cell or glass damage can reduce performance and create a safety risk.

How should I clean the panels?

Do not use abrasive products, harsh chemicals or a pressure washer. Do not clean while the panel is hot and never take risks working at height. Follow the maintenance instructions and use a competent professional where access is difficult.

What should I do if the cable, plug, inverter or panel is damaged?

Do not use the system. Keep people away, follow the safe shutdown instructions and contact UKSOL or the retailer. Do not open or repair electrical components. If there is smoke, fire or an immediate electrical danger, move away and call 999.

Orders, delivery and support

How will my kit be delivered?

Plug-in solar kits are large and heavy. Delivery arrangements depend on the retailer and location. Inspect the packaging when it arrives and photograph any visible damage before opening or moving the goods.

What if the kit arrives damaged?

Do not install damaged equipment. Photograph the packaging, labels and affected components, retain all packaging and contact the retailer promptly. The retailer will explain its delivery-damage and replacement process.

What warranty is included?

UKSOL Plug-In Solar Pro kits include a 10-year British warranty, subject to the applicable warranty terms, correct installation, permitted use and product exclusions. Keep your proof of purchase, serial numbers and installation records.

Who handles cancellations and returns?

The retailer that sold the kit normally handles cancellations, returns and refunds under its terms and your statutory rights. Because the products are large and heavy, contact the retailer before arranging any return.

How do I contact UKSOL?

Email info@uksol.uk or telephone 01753 910327. Please provide the kit model, serial number, proof of purchase, retailer details, installation date and clear photographs where relevant.

Important

This FAQ is general guidance. The product instructions, current legislation, ENA listing and applicable warranty terms take priority. If anything is unclear, do not connect the kit until you have obtained suitable advice.