The Perlight PowerPlug Kit is a smart, flexible alternative to traditional rooftop solar, giving homeowners a practical way to generate their own electricity from sunlight without the need for a full roof mounted PV system.
Available across England, Scotland and Wales since August, PowerPlug is designed for homes where rooftop solar is not suitable, or for homeowners looking for a simpler, more flexible way to benefit from solar energy.
How does it work?
The PowerPlug works in much the same way as a traditional solar PV system, but on a smaller, more flexible scale.
The solar panels capture sunlight and generate electricity, which is converted into a form your home can use. The electricity is then supplied to your home through a suitable outdoor socket, helping to power everyday appliances and devices.
When the PowerPlug is not generating enough electricity to meet your needs, your home automatically draws any additional power required from the grid, just as it normally would.
The key difference is the size and flexibility of the system. Traditional solar PV is permanently installed and professionally fitted to your property, while the PowerPlug is a compact system designed to connect to a suitable outdoor socket.
What are the benefits
A more flexible approach to solar
One of the biggest advantages of the PowerPlug is where it can be installed. Depending on your property, it can be positioned on a wall, or balcony, or used freestanding in your garden.
This makes it an option worth considering for homes without a suitable roof, as well as renters and those who aren’t looking for a permanent rooftop installation.
A more accessible starting point – savings on your energy bills
The Energy Saving Trust estimates you could save:
- £100 per year for a household that is at home all day and can use more of the solar generation.
- £70 per year for a household that is out during the day and therefore uses less of the generation.
- Their modelling is based on an 800 W plug-in solar system, with specific assumptions around location, orientation, shading, household electricity consumption and electricity price.
These figures are estimates rather than guaranteed savings and your actual savings will depend on factors such as sunlight, panel position, electricity usage and your energy tariff- the savings are lower than those typically possible with a larger rooftop solar system, but the PowerPlug also requires a much smaller initial commitment.
How long does it take to set up?
For a suitable installation, our team estimates that setup takes around 40 minutes to an hour, and having an extra pair of hands can make the process even easier. The kit is designed to be straightforward to set up.
Where can I install the PowerPlug?
Before you buy, there are a few things to consider.
First, check whether you need permission. Renters may need approval from their landlord, while flats and managed properties may have additional requirements from a building manager or freeholder.
You’ll also need a suitable location with good access to sunlight. Think about potential shading from buildings, trees, walls or other nearby structures.
Finally, you’ll need a suitable outdoor electrical socket. If you don’t have one, an electrician will need to install it. If you’re unsure about the condition of your existing electrical installation, it’s worth having it checked before connecting the kit.
So, is it right for me?
The PowerPlug isn’t intended to replace a full rooftop solar system. Instead, it offers a smaller, more flexible way to generate your own electricity.
It could be a good fit if you want to start generating solar energy, don’t have a suitable roof, are renting with permission to install, or simply want a less permanent alternative to traditional solar.
If you’re still unsure, we’re here to help. We can answer your questions and help you understand whether the PowerPlug is suitable for your home, while our FAQs cover the practical details of installation and getting the most from your system.
