Yes: compliant plug-in solar can be bought and used in Great Britain from 27 August 2026. This is a specific route for qualifying solar-only devices, not blanket approval for every product with a mains plug.
What changed on 27 August?
Statutory Instrument 2026/848 changed both plug approval rules and electricity safety regulations. The connection route requires compliance with the Plug-in Solar Device Interim Product Specification, version 2, published in July 2026.
A standard UK plug on its own is not proof. The requirements cover the system, protection functions, instructions and mounting as well as the plug.
Great Britain and Northern Ireland
The plug approval amendment extends across the UK. The electricity safety amendment extends to England, Wales and Scotland. It does not provide the same connection route in Northern Ireland.
In Northern Ireland, check current requirements with NIE Networks and a competent installer. Do not apply Great Britain guidance to your property without that check.
The limits to understand
- Rated AC output is capped at 800W; apparent power is limited to 800VA.
- The approved G98 change limits plug-in microgeneration to one device per customer installation, effectively one per household.
- A second socket or different circuit does not create an allowance for another system.
- Existing generation must be considered when checking the combined installation.
Batteries are outside this route
The specification excludes plug-in batteries and plug-in solar devices integrated with battery systems. A product being used elsewhere in Europe does not establish a permitted British socket connection.
Professionally designed solar and battery installations have their own requirements. Ask about that route if storing energy is central to your plans.
The home still needs to be suitable
Check any tenancy, lease, building management, planning or listed-building restrictions before buying. Follow the device instructions and seek electrical advice if the installation is uncertain.
Registration is a legal requirement. Check the exact model on the ENA device register, then use the UK Plug-In Solar Registration service to notify the network operator when the system is installed or removed.
Good questions
Is every 800W microinverter legal to plug in?
No. The rating is only one requirement. Evidence must cover the complete device and UK connection arrangement.
Is a CE or UKCA mark enough?
It does not establish compliance with every specific plug-in solar requirement. Request the exact system’s supporting evidence.
Prepared from the linked sources. This is guidance, not a product certification or an assessment of your home. Tell us about a correction.