Government Will "Consider" Changing Law to Stop Landlords Blocking Plug-In Solar

Climate Minister, Katie White, has told The i-newspaper that the government will "consider" changing the law if landlords become a "friction point" for renters wanting to install plug-in solar.

Speaking this week, White said she doesn't expect many landlords to refuse — but made clear the government is prepared to act if they do. She didn't rule out following Germany's approach, where landlords must now provide a specific written reason to refuse permission for balcony solar.

What this means for UK renters

Right now, UK renters technically need landlord permission to install plug-in solar. Under the Renters' Rights Act 2025, landlords already cannot "unreasonably refuse" tenant improvements and plug-in solar, which causes no structural changes and can be removed when you leave, fits neatly under that protection.

White framed permission for plug-in solar as similar to "having a cat or putting up a picture on the wall." The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is working with the Ministry of Housing to identify potential barriers ahead of plug-in solar kits hitting shops this summer.

Why this matters

Around 36% of UK households are renters. If the government formalises a right to install plug-in solar, rather than relying on landlords' goodwill, it opens the market to millions of additional households overnight.

The government expects plug-in solar to save households up to £110 per year, with kits starting at around £400 from retailers including Lidl and Amazon. At that price, a kit pays for itself within four years.

What you should do

If you're a renter considering plug-in solar, start the conversation with your landlord now. The law is moving in your favour. We'll publish a full renter's guide with a downloadable landlord letter template shortly.

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Source: The i Paper, 26 April 2026