One of the main reasons the government pushed to legalise plug-in solar was renters. Around five million UK homes are flats or rented properties where the occupants have had no practical route to generate their own electricity. Plug-in solar changes that, but knowing exactly where you stand with your landlord is important before you spend money on a kit.
The big advantage for renters
Unlike rooftop solar, a plug-in system is portable. You can take it with you when you move. There is no permanent installation, no structural work, and no change to the property. This makes it fundamentally different from most home improvements, and it is one of the arguments the government has used when discussing renter rights in this area.
Do you need your landlord’s permission?
Currently, yes. Even though the systems are portable and leave no permanent mark, fixing panels to a balcony railing or wall still technically involves attaching something to the property. Most tenancy agreements require written permission for any external fixtures. The sensible approach is to write to your landlord explaining what you want to install, that it is removable, and that you will restore everything when you leave.
Climate Minister Katie White has said the government expects most landlords to agree to these requests and does not anticipate significant pushback. However, she has also said the government will consider changing the law if landlord refusals become a common problem.
The Renters Rights Act 2025
The Renters Rights Act 2025 introduced new protections for tenants making reasonable requests for home improvements. While plug-in solar is not explicitly named in the current legislation, the Act provides a general framework under which landlords cannot unreasonably refuse requests for improvements that benefit the tenant and do not damage the property. A portable solar system would be a strong candidate for protection under this provision.
What about flats with shared building management?
If you live in a leasehold flat or a property managed by a freeholder or residents management company, you may need permission from them as well as your landlord. The government is also looking at this layer of the problem, particularly for leaseholders who want to install solar on shared roofs or balconies.
Practical steps for renters
Write to your landlord before you buy anything. Explain the system is fully removable, that it plugs into a standard socket, and that it will not affect the property. Attach a product brochure if you have one. If your landlord says no without a reasonable explanation, it may be worth citing the Renters Rights Act and asking them to reconsider in writing.
Once you have permission, the installation process is the same as for any other household. Register with your District Network Operator under G98, connect the system through a registered electrician while the BSI standard is still pending, and you are generating your own electricity.