The new rules
From today households across Great Britain can legally buy and use plug-in solar kits of up to 800W that connect through a standard three-pin plug. The change removes the previous barriers that kept rooftop solar out of reach for many people.
A typical kit comes as two panels on a rack mount with a micro-inverter. It costs around £500, needs no roof work or installer, and can be unplugged and taken when moving house. The power it generates is used instantly in the home, so there is no export payment.
OVO's response
OVO is celebrating the milestone by giving five kits to members of its Beyond rewards scheme. The free draw opens today and closes at 23:59 on 17 September 2026. Any OVO customer with a smart meter who pays by Direct Debit can join Beyond for free through the app and enter.
The supplier has also confirmed it will launch a full plug-in solar offer to customers in the coming months.
Scott Duncan, Head of Domestic Exports at OVO, said: “For years, getting solar has meant being a homeowner and being able to finance a sizable investment. Plug-in solar opens up clean energy to a much bigger audience and that’s why we are so excited that it’s available in the UK from today. To celebrate this pivotal moment, we’re giving OVO Beyond customers the chance to win 5 plug-in solar kits. And we’ll be launching more plug-in solar offers later this year.”
Who benefits
The kits suit renters, flat dwellers and anyone with a small garden or patio who cannot fit traditional panels. Savings come from using less grid electricity during the day, with estimates suggesting around £100 a year for a typical household.
We have more on current energy options and how different tariffs compare at our energy hub.
