These “plug-in” systems are not permanently connected to the home’s electrical panel, but are plugged into a standard socket, just like a household appliance. The main difference with conventional photovoltaic or storage systems is therefore the simplicity of installation: plug-in systems are designed to be plugged into a socket, without any complicated work or the mandatory intervention of an electrician, although this may be recommended in some cases. In addition, they are also smaller in power (one or two or four panels), unlike roof-top installations, which can include many panels, require a permanent connection and require a conformity check.

A typical plug-in solar kit includes one or two solar panels, a microinverter (which converts the generated electricity into usable power for your home), and a connection cable with a standard plug. Some systems also include a portable battery to store energy, or an app for monitoring and management.

If your roof is unsuitable (small, shaded, poor orientation) or the budget is too high, a plug & play system can be a viable solution. On the one hand, some of these plug-in systems can be purchased with a budget of less than 500 euros incl. VAT. On the other hand, these systems can be installed on a smaller surface of your roof or in other locations such as your balcony, a discreet corner of your terrace, your garden or attached to a wall

In Belgium, prices for a quality 350 Wp plug-in solar kit are usually between 500 and 800 euros, including VAT. The price per watt peak usually varies between 1.4 and 2.2 euros, depending on the type of panel or panels, the inverter, the mounting system (roof, balcony, ground, etc.) and any additional accessories. (estimated March 2025).

The profitability of plug-in PV systems is generally comparable to that of conventional PV installations. Because these devices can be placed more flexibly, they can often be better oriented, which increases their yield. As with any PV system, the yield depends on several factors: the installed capacity (Wp), the location of the modules, your consumption profile, the share of self-consumption of the generated electricity, your current electricity cost (€/kWh), the type of electricity contract (fixed or variable, single or dual hourly rate, capacity rate, etc.), the future tariff framework (future time-of-use), and also the value of the electricity you inject, etc. In Belgium, the payback period of plug-in systems usually varies between 3 and 10 years, depending on the situation. These devices are designed to last 20 to 30 years. What is certain is that a high share of self-consumption remains an important lever to maximise profitability, regardless of whether you opt for a conventional fixed system or a plug-in solution. In addition, the cost price of the “plug & play” system is of course also a very important factor for the profitability of the investment.

This depends on your electricity price on the one hand and on the model you choose on the other. A plug-in solar panel system of 800W generates approximately 984kWh, which at an electricity price of approximately 36 euro cents per kWh means a saving of approximately €210. With a “plug-and-play” system with a capacity of 2000W, approximately 1790 kWh of electricity can be generated, which means an annual saving on the electricity bill of approximately €385. It is even more worthwhile if you also integrate a storage system (battery): With this you can achieve an energy consumption of up to 100% and save a total of approximately €28,433 over the next 30 years

An additional plug-in device can certainly be relevant for households that already have a classic PV system. One or two additional plug & play modules can increase your production capacity and improve your immediate self-consumption. Plug & play devices can also be used flexibly for temporary or additional needs, without having to adjust the existing system. Thanks to their simple installation and limited size, they form an accessible and modular extension.

You can install a plug-in solar panel kit in different places, on a balcony or facade, a garden shed, garden, terrace, flat roof, a sunny plot of land… The important thing is to choose a location that is exposed to the sun and tilted in such a way that the maximum output is produced at the times you want, avoiding shade and ensuring that you comply with all local or municipal regulations. The use of extension cords or power strips is not recommended.

The lifespan of solar kits is generally good, with warranties on the panels of up to 25 or 30 years. Manufacturers usually offer warranties on the various components of these systems (inverters, cables, mountings), ranging from 12 years to 30 years for some models. If they are moved around a lot, the systems can wear out a little faster. The lifespan of portable batteries depends on their technology and use (number of charge/discharge cycles), but is usually 10-15 years, depending on the model.