Plug-in Balcony Solar Panel Systems
Plug-in balcony Solar systems are set to become available nationwide on the 27th August 2026, but what are they and what do they do?
Many of us are familiar with solar powered energy through rooftop solar panels. However, under new regulations, compact balcony solar systems consisting of just one or two panels are becoming legal across the United Kingdom. They have the potential to be highly beneficial for the environment as well as for renters and those who live in apartments and flats.
Balcony solar systems are plug-in renewable energy structures. They typically consist of lightweight solar panels and a microinverter which can be assembled and installed easily. Panels can be mounted on balcony railings, patios or garden sheds and plugged into a standard household wall outlet to reduce your baseline electricity use. This means renters and those living in apartments will be able to get behind this new climate friendly energy resource.
Read Octopus Energy’s breakdown here for further details.
This new availability of balcony solar systems is positive for our planet because they significantly reduce annual carbon emissions by replacing fossil fuel electricity with renewable solar powered energy. By expanding solar power access to those who cannot install rooftop solar panels means clean energy is available in millions of more homes, particularly in cities and urban areas.
In addition, balcony solar systems cost significantly less than rooftop panels and there are zero installation costs. They are predicted to cost around £400 to purchase but can save you up to £100 a year on energy bills- this means that, after a payback period of 3-4 years, they are cost effective. Due to their nature of being plugged in, they can also be taken with you if you move house.
For more information on the benefits of Balcony Solar systems, follow this link from Thunder Energy.
Balcony Solar Systems are set to be available off the shelf and online from major retailers including Argos, B&Q, Wickes, Asda and Currys.
Article written by Evie May Davis - DCAN Volunteer