Do you install battery storage systems?

Yes. We design and install integrated battery storage systems to maximise self-consumption and resilience.

How long does the process take?

Design and quotation can be delivered within days. Installation is typically completed within one week once approvals are in place.

Do you handle DNO applications?

Yes. We manage the full G98 or G99 submission process.

What warranties are included?

All panels and inverters include manufacturer warranties. Installation is carried out under MCS certified standards.

Can you support renovation or extension projects?

Yes. We regularly coordinate with architects and contractors on regulated developments.

Can flexible panels be integrated?

Yes. We specialise in lightweight and compact PV systems where conventional panels may not be suitable.

What is plug-in solar and how does it work in the UK?

Plug-in solar systems are compact solar panel kits designed to mount on balconies, fences, garden walls and other outdoor surfaces. They generate electricity and feed it into your home, reducing the amount of power you draw from the grid. The UK government confirmed in March 2026 that it will update regulations to allow plug-in solar, with products expected in shops from mid-2026. Thunder Energy is already installing compliant systems via fused spur connections under current UK regulations.

Is plug-in solar legal in the UK?

The UK government announced in March 2026 that it intends to make plug-in solar available in the UK. The wiring regulations (BS 7671) are being updated and a new product standard from BSI is expected around mid-2026. Until the new standards are formally in place, connecting a solar panel directly to a mains socket is not permitted. Thunder Energy installs all systems via a compliant hardwired fused spur connection on a dedicated radial circuit, carried out by a qualified electrician, so customers can start generating immediately without waiting for the regulations to change.

How much does plug-in solar cost in the UK?

Thunder Energy's Storm 360W plug-in solar kit starts from £499. The Storm 710W kit starts from £649. For customers in Greater London, the Storm 710W with professional installation (including fused spur wiring, G98 DNO notification, and full system testing) is available for £999 all-in. These prices include the panels, Hoymiles HMS-800W microinverter with app monitoring, and all mounting hardware.

How much electricity does a plug-in solar panel generate in the UK?

Thunder Energy's Storm 360W generates up to 320 kWh per year in typical UK conditions, saving up to £80 per year at current electricity rates. The Storm 710W generates up to 640 kWh per year, saving up to £160 per year. Adding a Vault battery increases savings further by storing solar energy for evening use. Actual output depends on panel orientation, shading, and location.

Can I install solar panels on a balcony or fence in the UK?

Yes. Thunder Energy's Storm plug-in solar kits use lightweight flexible panels with TopCon cells. The Storm 360W system weighs approximately 7 kg total and the Storm 710W weighs approximately 14 kg total, making them practical for fences, balcony railings, shed walls, garden walls, and garage exteriors. By comparison, conventional rigid glass panels used by most imported brands weigh significantly more. Thunder's panels conform to slight curves and are secured with straps, hooks, or screws depending on the surface.

How is Thunder Energy different from EcoFlow and other plug-in solar brands?

Thunder Energy uses lightweight flexible panels that weigh roughly a third of the rigid glass panels used by most imported brands. Beyond the hardware, Thunder offers professional installation across Greater London, handles G98 DNO notification, provides PV system design based on the specific property using PVSol, and has completed real solar projects on UK homes including a 6-flat development in North London. Thunder also offers a full solar journey from a 360W garden kit to a full MCS-certified rooftop installation.

What is the 800W plug-in solar limit in the UK?

The UK government confirmed that plug-in solar systems up to 800W will be covered under the new framework, consistent with the approach used in Germany and other European countries. Both Thunder Storm kits (360W and 710W) sit within this limit. The Hoymiles HMS-800W microinverter included in every Storm kit caps output at 800W.

Can plug-in solar improve SAP scores and EPC ratings?

Yes. Thunder Energy completed a project in North London where balcony-mounted solar systems helped a new residential building achieve SAP compliance when rooftop capacity alone was insufficient. Compact solar is relevant for property developers working under the Future Homes Standard, which requires most new homes to include on-site renewable generation from 2028. Thunder offers SAP optimisation, PV design, and installation services for developers.

Do I need planning permission for plug-in solar panels in the UK?

In most cases, no. Compact solar panels mounted on fences, walls and balconies typically fall within permitted development rights. Restrictions may apply for listed buildings or properties in conservation areas. Check with your local planning authority if unsure.

What is the return on investment for plug-in solar in the UK?

Traditional solar setups in the UK usually take around 9 to 12 years to pay for themselves due to high costs for panels, installation, and planning. Thunder Energy's Storm 360W can pay for itself in around 6 years. The Storm 710W brings returns in around 4 years. As electricity prices rise, payback periods shorten further.

Solar Installation

Solar Installation, Designed and Delivered by Thunder

End-to-end solar PV systems across Greater London. From technical design and DNO approval to MCS certified installation and commissioning.

Book a Free Solar Assessment

Complete Solar Delivery

Solar performance is not determined by panel count alone. Layout, orientation, shading, system losses and inverter configuration directly impact yield and return on investment.

Engineering

Custom PV system design

Roof layout optimisation

Full G98 or G99 application handling

Generation modelling and system sizing

Procurement

Tier 1 panels and inverters

Flexible and lightweight panel options

Battery ready system design

Optimised Sourcing and Logistics

Construction

MCS certified installation

Electrical testing and commissioning

Full handover documentation

Monitoring setup and client guidance

Project References

Our Work in Action

Residential Project

North London Installation

7.09 kWp rooftop solar PV system designed using detailed 3D modelling and PVGIS climate data. Full technical design, financial modelling, DNO coordination and MCS certified installation delivered.

Annual Generation

5,568 kWh

Self-Consumption

82.6%

CO₂ Reduction

2,112 kg/yr

System Size

7.09 kWp

Commercial Project

Greater London Retail Rooftop

Approx. 49 kWp commercial rooftop system designed for a large retail property with high daytime electricity demand. Full technical layout, component specification, 25 year generation modelling and financial analysis completed.

Annual Generation

41,589 kWh

Self-Consumption

95%

Demand Offset

~11%

System Size

~49 kWp

Who This Is For

Homeowners

Across Greater London

Property Developers

New builds and developments

Renovation Projects

Extensions and refurbishments

Small Commercial

Retail and office properties

SAP / Part L Compliance

Regulated developments

Working on a regulated development?

Explore our SAP Optimisation service

Our Process

How We Deliver

01

Initial Assessment

Roof review, electricity usage analysis and feasibility screening.

02

Technical Design

System sizing and annual production forecast using PVGIS climate data and 3D modelling.

03

DNO Approval

Full G98 or G99 submission and coordination.

04

MCS Installation

Installation, electrical testing and commissioning.

05

Handover

System activation, documentation pack and performance monitoring setup.

Why Thunder

What Sets Us Apart

Design-Led Approach

Thousands of PV layouts delivered since 2022. Advanced 2D and 3D system visualisation capability.

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Flexible Panel Expertise

Lightweight and retrofit-friendly systems ideal for constrained or renovation projects.

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Integrated Compliance

Deep knowledge of SAP, Part L and distributed PV strategies.

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Transparent Pricing

Clear pricing, realistic performance projections and structured project delivery.

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Frequently asked questions

Solar Installation

Ready to go solar?

Book a free assessment or request a fixed quote. We handle everything from design to commissioning.

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