Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 14 May 2026
174. Deputy Eoghan Kenny asked the Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment if his attention has been drawn to innovations in the solar industry with the emergence of plug-in solar kits; and, if so, whether he or his Department has a view on whether there is a requirement to have any certification to meet any standards that may be required by Safe Electric; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35846/26]
View answerPlug-in solar systems are very small PV energy systems, usually two or three modules and less than 1 kW in total per installation, which are connected to a micro-inverter and plugged directly into a normal household socket. This then feeds the house’s internal electricity system. These low-cost panels can be put on balconies or outdoor spaces. The use of plug-in mini solar technology has grown in some EU countries in recent years as consumers search for ways to save on high energy bills. It has seen particular growth in Germany, where 700,000 systems have been registered, although it is believed that the majority of systems in use there remain unregistered. As Minister, I am supportive of any technology which can reduce costs for households and consumers and increase the share of renewables in our system, provided that it can be integrated safely.
Officials from my Department engaged with stakeholders on the optional provisions in the 2024 Electricity Market Design Directive, including the provision relating to plug-in mini solar systems, through a consultation that ran from September to October 2024. Responses to the option to promote the use of plug-in mini solar technology urged caution, highlighting that a current lack of regulation of these systems could lead to safety risk such as electrical faults or fires in the event of a malfunction. As a result, it is important that the introduction of the technology is given appropriate consideration. It was also noted that without a registration process in place, the Distribution System Operator would have no visibility on where these systems would be in use and the impact they would have on the grid
I have requested that the work to consider plug-in solar be expedited by relevant parties, including ESB Networks, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities and Safe Electric. My officials are also in contact with officials from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in the UK, relating to the recently announced intention by the UK Government to regulate for the sale and use of plug-in mini solar systems. EU Guidance on the matter is also being considered.
