Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) has responded to the two-week consultation on the roll-out of plug-in solar panels, which ended on 30 June.

ECA’s response reiterated the concerns it raised in the joint statement it published with Electrical Safety First, the Institution of Engineering and Technology, NICEIC and SELECT.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) is proposing changes to the Plugs and Sockets etc. (Safety) Regulations 1994 (PSSR). The aim is to allow consumers to connect plug-in solar systems (without batteries) directly to a standard mains socket, provided products meet defined safety requirements. The objective is to provide a new, accessible route for households to generate clean electricity, helping reduce energy bills, and supporting wider clean power objectives.

Alongside regulatory changes, DESNZ is also proposing an interim product specification to ensure that only safe and compliant products can be placed on the UK market during a transitional period, while enduring standards are developed.

To read ECA’s full consultation response, please email: mediaenquiries@eca.co.uk