Can your tenants install plug-in solar panels without your permission?
Plug-in solar panels could give tenants a straightforward way to lower their electricity bills, saving up to £110 a year. They have been available to buy since August, and tenants can install them without a professional and take them with them when they move. Our policy and public affairs officer, Mia Rotaru explains what you need to know about this new technology.
So what exactly are plug in solar panels?
Plug-in solar panels are small solar power systems that connect directly to a standard household electrical socket. They generate electricity from sunlight to help power everyday appliances.
The panels convert sunlight into direct current electricity, which a microinverter converts into alternating current for household use. The electricity then passes through a standard plug socket and directly into your home’s electrical system.
Unlike conventional rooftop solar panels, plug-in systems are portable, don’t require the same kind of professional installation, and can be taken to a new home.
Because they are smaller (around 2m × 1m depending on the exact model), they generally generate less electricity.
While it is important to check the guidance for your situation, plug-in solar panels can be installed almost anywhere they’ll fit, such as a balcony, garden fence, patio, garage roof, or exterior wall.
How much do they cost, and what are the rules?
UK-compliant plug-in solar kits are now available to purchase, and as competition grows and more products are developed, the Government expects prices to settle between £400 and £600.
Households can use only one plug-in solar device at a time, and under current regulations, cannot connect multiple devices.
Before purchasing a system, you, or they, should that the product meets the relevant safety requirements and follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.
You’re legally required to register any plug-in solar panel devices before using them in the UK on the UK Plug-in Solar Registration website.
Do tenants need permission to install plug-in solar panels?
Your tenants must ask you for permission before installing plug-in solar panels, and if you are a leaseholder, you might also need permission from the freeholder.
You should also ask more questions about where the tenants expect to install them, how they will secure the panels, any potential damage to the property, and discuss relevant building safety and insurance requirements.
What could this mean for EPC ratings and MEES?
The introduction of plug-in solar panels also raises questions about how these systems could affect a property's Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating, particularly as the Government prepares to introduce changes to Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES).
Landlords should not assume that installing a plug-in solar device will improve a property's EPC rating or count towards meeting future MEES requirements.
Further clarification on how these systems will be treated under the reformed EPC methodology and upcoming MEES framework will be important.
The NRLA will continue to monitor developments and provide you with updates as further guidance becomes available.
More information
For more information on the Government's plans regarding Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards visit our exclusive member hub here.
Our award-winning training academy runs an Energy Efficiency and MEES compliance training course. For more information and to book click here.
