Octopus to be the first major UK energy supplier to sell plug-in solar to customers as new rules come into force
Households can buy plug-in solar from Octopus NOW
Panels plug straight into a normal household socket – no electrician needed – with customers able to track their solar output in the Octopus app
Octopus to pair plug-in solar with its plug-in ‘Nook Cube’ battery from Q1 2027
Comes as solar installations hit record highs across all UK regions, according to government data revealed today
London, 28 August 2026 – Brits can start plugging in their own solar NOW as Octopus Energy becomes the first major energy supplier to roll out the tech following new rules coming into force.
The new plug-in system lets households generate their own electricity without installing traditional rooftop panels – meaning renters, flat-dwellers and people without a suitable roof can now get in on the solar boom and cut their bills.
Made to suit different homes and budgets, Octopus’ plug-in solar kits start at £450, with customers able to choose between a one or two-panel setup.
The company estimates households could save up to £150, depending on factors including sunlight levels and household energy use.*
For households opting for two panels, pairing the system with a smart export tariff could mean paying back the cost of the panels in just five and a half years.
The 460W panels can be wall- or floor-mounted and are designed to capture sunlight from both sides, and customers can track their generated electricity via the Octopus app.
The kit comes with a standard three-pin plug and a 5m cable, making it easy to slot in at home and help power up everyday appliances such as fridges, washing machines or TVs.
The system is designed for simple DIY installation, meaning customers can easily set it up themselves in just an hour and even take it with them if they decide to move.
Octopus will also add plug-in solar panels to its own Nook Cube plug-in battery offering, launching early next year for households in the UK, Germany, France, Italy and Spain.
According to government data released today, residential solar is surging to record highs across all UK regions – with nearly 172,000 installations completed since the start of 2026.**
Rebecca Dibb-Simkin, Chief Product and Marketing Officer at Octopus, said: “Britons love solar – generate your own green power, slash bills, AND get energy independent, what’s not to love.
“But you shouldn't need a roof to tap into the savings. Plug-in solar democratises cheaper energy, making sure everyone can shrink their bill while helping build a greener grid.”
Customers can order their panels via the Octopus website now.
-ENDS-
Notes to the editor:
* This is an estimated annual saving for a household using the two-panel plug-in solar system.
Sources:
** Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, First regional solar breakdown as installations hit record highs, 28 August 2026
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About Octopus Energy Group
Octopus Energy is a global clean energy and technology business, driving the affordable, green energy system of the future. Under its own retail brand, Octopus delivers world-class customer service and cutting-edge energy products to 11 million households globally.
The company is driving the electrification of heat and transport through smart tariffs and innovative clean tech, with operations spanning 27 countries and the entire energy value chain. It operates a £8.5 billion renewables portfolio as well as thriving EV leasing, heat pump, and solar businesses.
Backed by pension funds, investors and energy giants, Octopus Energy Group businesses deliver cheaper, greener energy and cutting-edge tech to countries and customers worldwide. For more information, check out our website.