Plug-in solar panels set for UK change – how to set up home solar for under £200 (aff)

The current UK fuel crisis and a promise of more accessible home solar energy setups has led to a surge in demand for the panels - and we've found the cheapest way to set up solar at home.

The government has promised to alter regulations that prohibit solar systems being plugged into household sockets - and even install baclony solar panels - and they're working with major retailers to offer kits for around £400.

Since the announcement, home owners and renters’ interest has grown with the news that even Lidl solar panels moght well be on the way.

But there is a way to start buying into renewable solar energy right now and home much more cheaply - in fact, for less than £200.

Thanks to a deal on Amazon, that would get you the basic elements needed to start your home solar journey - a panel and a microinverter.

How plug-in solar panels work

The panel converts sunlight into energy, and the microinverter converts that energy into usable AC power compatible with your home's electrical system.

Amazon's deal brings the price of the EcoFlow Stream 800w microinverter down to just £129 - thanks to a 28% discount.

The cheapest way to buy solar panels is usually from City Plumbing, and they're offering a 410 watt panel for just £56.74 plus delivery.

Include the cost of some leads to connect the solar panel and you've got the basic elements for £200.

Importantly, however, it is not currently legal to simply plug the microinverter into your household socket. That is set to change, but if you can't wait to set up your solar you'll have to wire it in to your household electrical system. It's a job that's beyond the range of all but the most competent DIYers, so budget for a quick visit from an electrician.

You might also need to budget for some mounting accessories for your panel, especially if you're planning to attach them to a balcony or a fence. Shed or garage roofs will make things easier, but it's still wise to fix the panel down.

A 410w output from a solar panel will cover the base load of most homes, so on a sunny day you won't be using any electricity from the grid, but adding a battery to the system would be a good idea, especially if you want to add more solar panels in the future.

EcoFlow's Stream series is on sale at the moment, but prices still start at around £800. A cheaper option would be to add a portable power station into the mix, and Amazon has a refurbished EcoFlow Delta on offer for just £399.

Adding a battery means any energy you make over and above your home's base load will be stored for later use, instead of being pumped back into the grid.

A domestic solar setup, even a small one, could save at least a pound a day during the sunnier months, so it will slowly recoup the cost over a period of time. But the joy of being able to glance at your smart meter and see zero energy being pulled from the grid will pay for itself instantly.

Amazon Prime members get free delivery on eligible items. Non-Prime customers may pay delivery charges depending on the order.

Click here to see the microinverter deal and here to see the solar panel offer.