UK Government Plans Safety Study of Plug-In Batteries as Plug-In Solar Becomes Legal
Plug-in solar became legal in Great Britain on 27 August, but plug-in batteries were left out. The government is now seeking a contractor for a safety and risk study of batteries with up to 800 W of AC output.
What changed and what did not
According to ESS News, plug-in solar kits of up to 800 W can now be used in England, Wales and Scotland as of 27 August. Northern Ireland is not covered. Battery storage was not part of the change.
In practical terms, a plug-in battery is not covered by the new solar rules. This is our reading of the reports and not legal advice, so check the official position before you buy or plug anything in.
The planned study
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) has put out a tender for a safety and risk assessment of plug-in batteries with up to 800 W AC output. The Find a Tender listing describes the first phase as assessing the safety and risk of deploying these batteries in UK homes, with the findings informing changes to technical standards. It shows a planned procurement notice published on 21 August.
ESS News reports that the study would look at plug-in, self-installed battery products already sold elsewhere, with a focus on Germany and its VDE standards. It would assess hazards, run laboratory tests including reasonably foreseeable misuse, and recommend technical and regulatory changes. The report gives an estimated duration of 18 months from around early October, and a tender deadline of 30 September. These timings may change.
What the industry says
Jason Howlett, chief executive of the Energy Storage Association, said the association has discussed the issue with DESNZ for several months and would support a safe introduction of plug-in batteries, but that more regulatory work is needed. He also warned that plug-in batteries installed without checks on wiring and household circuits would not meet current standards.
That fits the cautious tone of the study itself. It is a first step, not a green light.
What to do now
If you want storage at home today, the route is an installed system by a qualified installer. Our guide on plug-in batteries explains the category, and home battery storage covers the installed option. We will update our guidance once the government publishes anything firmer.
Sources
- ESS News: UK explores plug-in battery regulations following plug-in solar launch
- Find a Tender: PS26239 Plug-in batteries safety study (DESNZ)
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