The Electrical Safety Roundtable (ESR) has published consumer guidance on plug-in solar devices, covering what buyers should check before purchase and what they need to arrange before and after installation. The organisation said the advice is intended to help households choose systems that are compliant, suitable for their property and installed correctly, rather than treating a retail purchase as the only step.
According to the guidance, a compliant device should meet the Plug-in Solar Device Interim Product Specification and carry clear marking and a statement confirming compliance. Its labelling should identify the manufacturer, model or serial number, voltage, frequency, current, rated power, IP rating and protection class. Consumers are advised to buy from reputable suppliers, follow the supplied instructions and avoid modifying the plug, cables, inverter, panels, connectors or other components.
Installation and electrical checks
The ESR recommends connecting the device to a nearby external socket-outlet that is suitably located and protected. Cables should not be trapped in doors or windows because this can damage them, and poorly routed or secured cabling can create trip hazards as well as further damage risk.
Before buying a plug-in solar device, consumers should find a qualified and competent electrician to check their electrical system ahead of installation. The guidance also advises contacting an insurer before purchase. People in flats or apartments may need approval from the building owner, while tenants must obtain permission from their landlord. Managing agents, planning authorities and other relevant parties should be informed where applicable.
Notification and permissions
After installation, the Distribution Network Operator must be notified within 28 days. The instructions supplied with a compliant system should explain how to do this. The ESR frames these steps as part of the broader process of ensuring a plug-in solar installation is appropriate for the property and its electricity supply.
Guidance for landlords, electricians and support organisations
The guidance is also intended as a resource for people advising consumers. Letting agents and landlords can share it with tenants and residents to explain possible permission requirements and safety checks. Organisations can use it to raise awareness and direct consumers to clear, consistent information, while electricians can give it to potential customers to show why checks by a qualified and competent person matter before installation.
Nick Hayler, chair of the Electrical Safety in the Home group, said the organisation supports innovation that can help households adopt renewable energy and reduce their bills, but that this must be done safely. He advised consumers to follow the guidance and use a competent and qualified person to help ensure a device is suitable and correctly installed.
The ESR said that making the guidance widely available is intended to help consumers gain the benefits of plug-in solar while keeping safety as the priority.