The green energy revolution has just become a lot more accessible. Following a recent change in government rules, plug-in solar panels are now legally available to buy from High Street retailers and DIY shops across the UK.

Designed to combat fluctuating energy prices driven by overseas fuel sources, these innovative systems are significantly cheaper than traditional roof panels.

Best of all, they open up the benefits of solar power to those with smaller outdoor spaces, including renters, flat-owners with balconie, and homes without suitable roof space. 

But while the concept is ‘plug and play,’ experts are warning that homeowners still need to ensure their property’s electrical wiring is safe before parting with their cash.

That’s where Wells CRS comes in.

A game-changer for the North-East

As a proud North-East business, Wells CRS is perfectly positioned to help domestic customers across Teesside, Hartlepool, Middlesbrough, Stockton, Darlington, Durham and beyond transition to clean energy safely.

David Murphy, co-owner at Wells CRS, said: “The government’s decision to legalise plug-in solar panels is a massive game-changer for homeowners and renters alike.

“It opens up renewable energy to thousands of people who couldn’t previously have traditional roof installations.

“At Wells CRS, our local engineers are perfectly placed to help families across Teesside and the wider North-East safely integrate this fantastic technology into their homes, allowing them to start cutting their electricity bills from day one.”

What are plug-in solar panels?

Forget the need for expensive scaffolding or complicated roof installations. Plug-in solar units are designed to connect directly to a standard socket, feeding clean, free electricity straight into your home’s circuit to run everyday appliances like your TV, fridge and lights. 

They are perfect for:

Gardens, garages, patios and sheds

Flats and homes that are structurally unable to have roof solar 

Renters and homeowners looking for a flexible, movable system 

Anyone wanting to reduce their electricity bills immediately

The hidden danger: Why you need a professional

While retailers are marketing these as DIY-friendly, connecting a continuous power source to your home’s circuitry carries serious risks if your wiring isn’t up to the task.

If your main distribution board cannot handle the output, the panels can cause the system to overheat. Worse still, if a panel is installed incorrectly, it can completely invalidate your home insurance policy.

Garry Wells, co-owner at Wells CRS, said: “While it’s brilliant that these panels are hitting shelves, it’s absolutely vital that people don’t just blindly plug them in without checking their wiring.

“Mains electricity is nothing to gamble with. Your home’s distribution board must be evaluated by a professional to ensure it can handle the extra output without overheating.

“As NICEIC and TrustMark approved contractors, our job is to protect our customers. We ensure your new solar setup is 100% safe, tested and fully compliant with BS:7671 regulations before you switch it on.”

Why choose Wells CRS for your installation?

When it comes to your family’s safety and your home’s integrity, don’t risk a DIY disaster. Wells CRS offers a seamless, safe and fully certified installation process.

NICEIC accredited electricians: We are approved by the UK’s leading electrical safety body, guaranteeing that your installation meets the highest industry standards.

Government TrustMark registered: This status means we are fully vetted, insured and adhere to strict government-endorsed trading practices. You are always protected.

Installed to BS:7671 standards: All our work is carried out by qualified electricians strictly adhering to the 18th Edition Wiring Regulations. Every job is thoroughly tested and certified.

True North-East experts: No frustrating national call centres. We are your local engineers, proudly serving Stockton, Middlesbrough, Darlington, Durham, Hartlepool, Teesside and all surrounding areas.

The Wells CRS 4-Step installation process

Free home survey: We visit your property to advise on the best location for maximum sunlight exposure. Crucially, we will inspect your main distribution board to ensure it can safely handle the solar output without overheating.

Professional installation: Our NICEIC-qualified electricians will safely install your plug-in unit (ground or wall mount) to BS:7671 regulations. Most installations are completed in just one day!

Plug In & save: Once signed off, you simply switch it on and start generating free, eco-friendly power straight into your home.

Full certification: We provide you with all the necessary test certificates and paperwork, giving you total peace of mind and keeping your home insurance perfectly valid.

Wells CRS co-owners David Murphy and Garry Wells pictured in Stockton-on-Tees where the company has plenty work on. Picture: Tom Banks

Frequently asked questions

Q: Do I need planning permission for plug-in solar?

A: Most ground-mounted plug-in systems do not require planning permission. We will happily double-check this for you during your free home survey.

Q: Will the panels still work in the winter?

A: Yes! You will still generate power on cloudy and overcast days, though the output will be slightly less than during the peak of summer.

Q: Is it legal to plug them straight into a socket?

A: Yes, following the recent government rule change, it is perfectly legal – provided it is installed safely to BS:7671 standards by a qualified electrician, which is exactly what we do.

Ready to start saving with solar?

Your safety and your savings are our responsibility. Don’t leave your electrical safety to chance. We have limited installation slots available before the end of the year across the North-East. Get a free, no-obligation quote for your plug-in solar installation today.