UK to legalize plug-in solar panels on August 27

The United Kingdom will legalize plug-in solar panels on August 27, 2023, allowing households to install the devices without needing prior approval from distribution network operators. The change, announced by the government, affects millions of homeowners who want to generate their own electricity using solar panels that plug directly into a wall socket. Currently, such installations are technically illegal under electricity safety regulations, which require any generation equipment to be approved by the network operator. The new rules will remove this barrier, making it easier and cheaper for people to adopt solar energy. The government estimates that the move could save households up to £200 per year on electricity bills and reduce carbon emissions by 1.5 million tonnes annually. The decision follows a consultation that began in 2021, which received over 2,000 responses from industry and the public. Next, the government plans to launch a public awareness campaign to inform consumers about the new regulations and safety guidelines for using plug-in solar panels.