London solar is a roof-and-tariff problem before it is a panel-brand problem
Terraces, flats, conservation constraints, shading, roof ownership and limited usable area can matter as much as headline module wattage. Start with the property and electricity use, then choose equipment that fits the physical and electrical limits.
Plug-in solar became legal across Great Britain in August 2026
The UK government announced that plug-in solar kits became legal to buy and use from 27 August 2026. The government described kits up to 800W and estimated potential savings of up to £110 a year under its stated assumptions. That creates a new small-system route for some households, but suitability, safe installation instructions, tenancy/freeholder rules and current product standards still need checking.
Source: UK Government — plug-in solar announcement.
Export payments are tariff-specific
For conventional rooftop systems, Smart Export Guarantee offers differ by supplier. A quote should show the assumed self-consumption rate and export tariff rather than treating exported electricity as a fixed national value.
What to verify
- Roof rights, planning/building constraints and shading
- Array layout and realistic annual production
- Current import and export tariffs
- Whether a battery is being sized for bill shifting, backup or both
- Equipment warranties and UK support channel
For very small systems, read the plug-in solar guide. For full rooftop systems, start with the system-size calculator.