A plug-in solar kit looks simple because it is simple. There's no electrician, no scaffolding, and no rewiring your consumer unit. You unbox it, mount it, and plug it in.
The four parts that make it work
Every plug-in solar device has the same four parts. There's the solar panel itself, which catches the light. There's an inverter, the box that turns the panel's DC power into the AC power your home uses. There's a lead fitted with a plug that meets the British standard BS 1363. And there's a mount to hold the panel in place.
Why does it use your own power first?
The device is a grid-following inverter. That means it watches what your home is already drawing and tops it up first, before anything spills over. If your kettle and fridge are already using 500 watts, the panel's output goes straight to them. You only buy the difference from your supplier.
Why must you use the maker's own plug?
This isn't a normal extension lead job. The plug and lead that come with the kit are tested together as one unit. A notified body has approved that exact plug for this use. Swap in your own cable or plug and the safety testing no longer applies.
What are the electrical limits?
A plug-in solar device is built for single-phase domestic use, rated up to 253 volts AC and 50 Hz. Its apparent power can't go over 800 VA. The current it sends into your home can't top 3.5 amps. Those limits keep it safe on an ordinary household circuit.
The quick version
- Four parts: panel, inverter, plug-and-lead, and mount.
- It tops up what your home already uses first.
- Capped at 253 V, 50 Hz, 800 VA, and 3.5 A.