The MP for Sheffield Heeley has welcomed new rules allowing plug-in solar panels to be legally sold across Great Britain, encouraging local residents to explore whether they could help cut their energy bills.
It was announced this week that plug-in solar panels can be sold in shops across the country. Offering households a simpler and potentially cheaper way to generate some of their own electricity.
The Government estimates that households could save up to £110 a year, with a system capable of providing up to about a fifth of the average home’s electricity use while the sun is shining. Major retailers including B&Q, Screwfix, Currys and Amazon are expected to stock the systems.
These new plug-in solar panels can be installed without an electrician, although households are advised to have their wiring checked by a qualified professional before buying.
Systems must meet government safety requirements, and households can only connect one plug-in solar device per property under the current rules. It has also confirmed that households must notify their local electricity Distribution Network Operator within 28 days of connecting a system.
The changes form part of the Government’s wider push to expand renewable energy, reduce reliance on volatile international fossil fuel markets and help households generate more of their own electricity. Nearly 172,000 solar installations have already been fitted across the UK since the start of 2026.
Louise Haigh MP said:
“The government have just torn up the regulations so anyone can now fit lightweight portable solar panels to their homes bringing down their bills.
“If you’re looking for a Bank Holiday DIY project, it’s worth taking a look at what is now available and seeing whether it could work for your home.
“Costs will differ so I would encourage constituents who can afford it to shop around, but you’re probably looking at about £500.
“But I also know that not everyone in Sheffield Heeley can afford to spend on a plug-in solar panel right now. We need to make sure the transition to cheaper, cleaner energy works for everyone, not just those who can afford to invest upfront.
“That is why the Government is also taking action to help with energy bills. From 1 October, VAT will be removed from household electricity bills, saving households an average of £45 a year.”