Tesco Insurance urges safety checks as plug-in solar panels enter UK market
New legislation means compliant small solar panels can now be plugged directly into a wall socket in UK homes, provided they meet the required specifications.
Households considering plug-in solar panels should check their insurance and product certification before installation, Tesco Insurance has said.
New legislation means compliant small solar panels can now be plugged directly into a regular wall socket in UK homes, provided they meet the required specifications and are used in line with manufacturer guidance.
Similar systems are already commonly used in countries including Germany and are typically smaller than full residential rooftop solar installations.
Tesco Insurance said plug-in systems could save households an estimated £70 to £110 a year, depending on factors including system size, positioning, shading and energy usage.
Alex Cross, chief customer officer at Tesco Insurance, said: “We anticipate that many people will be excited about this new plug-in solar panel legislation if it means they might be able to cut their energy bills and reduce their environmental impact.
“However, as with any new product you plan on using on your home, it’s important to take a few sensible precautions first, from checking the product is properly certified to understanding whether your landlord or building allows it.
“Taking a few minutes to do this can help households avoid problems further down the line, whether that’s a safety issue or claim that doesn’t go the way they expect.”
The insurer said plug-in solar panels would currently typically meet the definition of contents and would therefore usually be covered under a standard contents insurance policy.
However, cover can differ between providers and may depend on factors including how the panel is installed and whether it is permanently fixed or kept outside.
Households were also advised to ensure products comply with the new Government specifications, with systems containing built-in storage batteries currently falling outside the compliant specification.
Tesco Insurance said compatibility with a property’s existing electrical installation was another important consideration, with households remaining responsible for installing and maintaining panels safely despite their “plug-and-go” design.
The insurer also advised households to check whether their policy covers theft or damage to items kept outside the home.
Tesco Insurance estimated that a typical plug-in solar panel costs around £400.
Based on estimated annual savings of £70 to £110, households could therefore wait several years before recovering the initial cost.
Cross added: “The new legislation is a positive step for households looking for new ways to manage energy costs, but a little preparation can go a long way in helping people install and use these products safely.”
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