You will soon be able to buy plug-in solar panels at Lidl and Amazon in the UK to get off the grid
More households will be helped to save money on bills through plug-in solar panels as the government vows to go further and faster on clean energy in response to conflict in the Middle East.
Retailers like Lidl and Amazon, alongside manufacturers such as EcoFlow, are working with government to enable them to be brought to the UK market.
Plug-in solar is already widely used by households across Europe, with Germany seeing around half a million new devices plugged in per year.
The free solar power can be used directly through a mains socket like any other device, without an installation cost, thereby reducing the amount of electricity taken from the grid and cutting energy bills.
The easy-to-install technology could save many households significant amounts on their energy bills and help make the UK less reliant on global fossil fuel markets.
The government said it has taken decisive action in response to the conflict in the Middle East to fight for consumers and businesses on the cost of living, and is speeding up plans for more clean, homegrown energy that the UK controls to ensure energy sovereignty and security.
This is alongside new rules coming into force on Tuesday (24 March) implementing the Future Homes Standard, which includes common-sense measures to ensure the majority of new homes are built cheaper to run, with solar panels and clean heating as standard.
These measures on new homes could save families up to £830 a year on their energy bills, compared to a standard home with an EPC rating of C. This will ensure they are more comfortable and affordable – and create at least 75% less carbon emissions than those built to the 2013 standards.
“The government is determined to fight people’s corner in this crisis, which is why we have acted to prevent unfair practices like price gouging and provided immediate help for the most vulnerable facing spiralling heating oil prices,” said Energy Secretary Ed Miliband.
He added that Iran War has once again shown that the drive for clean power is essential for the country’s energy security and to escape the grip of international fossil fuel markets.
“Whether through solar panels fitted as standard on new homes or making it possible for people to purchase plug-in solar in shops, we are determined to roll out clean power so we can give our country energy sovereignty,” he said.
