Plug-in Solar Panels - safety points for tenants

Corgi Technical Services and ASCP in Housing & Communities have provided us with 10 safety points for tenants regarding plug-in solar panels.

Plug-in solar panels can provide a simple way of generating electricity at home, but they are not suitable for every property. Before buying, installing or connecting a system, please consider the following:

1. Speak to your landlord before you buy
   Always contact your landlord before purchasing or installing plug-in solar. The property, electrical installation and proposed location may need to be checked first
2. A standard socket does not mean your home is suitable
   Although these systems connect through a socket, they introduce electricity into your home’s wiring in a different way to normal appliances. The existing installation must be able to safely accommodate this
3. Your electrical installation should be checked
   Some existing protective devices may not be suitable for plug-in solar or for electricity flowing in both directions. A competent electrician should confirm that the installation and intended circuit are suitable before the system is connected
4. A satisfactory EICR is not the same as a solar suitability check
   Your property’s electrical installation may already have a satisfactory Electrical Installation Condition Report, but this does not automatically confirm that a particular circuit is suitable for plug-in solar
5. Connect directly to a suitable socket
   Never try to extend the reach of the system using an extension lead, multi-way adaptor, cable reel or similar accessory. These can introduce overheating and other electrical risks.
6. Check what you are buying
   Use a reputable supplier and make sure the product is intended for the UK market, meets the required product specification and appears on the relevant ENA product register
7. One system does not mean several
   Current arrangements allow a maximum plug-in solar output of 800 W per household. Do not add extra units or connect systems to several sockets in an attempt to increase generation.
8. Think about where the panels will go
   Solar panels can be large and heavy. They need to be securely positioned so they cannot fall, damage the building, block access or create a hazard to people below
9. Installation comes with responsibilities
   Connecting generation to a property is different from plugging in an ordinary appliance. The relevant Distribution Network Operator must be notified and there may also be landlord, building, insurance or other requirements to consider.
10. Register the product and keep the details
    Keep the product information, model number and installation details in a safe place, and register the system with the manufacturer. This helps ensure you can be contacted if there  
    is a safety notice or product recall.

Plug-in solar can offer benefits, but safe use depends on the product, the property and the electrical installation all being suitable. Contact Rykneld Homes before buying or connecting a system.

Before you plug in solar, check in first.

Corgi Technical Services website

ASCP in Housing & Communities website