Plug-in solar panels became legal in the UK today, providing a quick and easy way to cut your electricity bill without any professional installation. Plug-in solar isn’t right for every home (see my list of three places you can’t install plug-in solar panels for details). Don’t despair, though — you can still trim your bills by opting for clever solar-powered home tech, and as TechRadar’s Homes Editor, I’ve put together a list of 12 top options to brighten your life.
Solar-powered lights are one of the most obvious options, and contain batteries that charge during the day then release the stored energy at night, when you need it. Smart home brands Nanoleaf and Govee both have some great solar smart lights, and if you’re looking for something cheaper, IKEA sells excellent solar-powered string lights to add some whimsy to your garden.
You can also opt for solar video doorbells, security cameras, and motion-triggered floodlights to protect your home — without the need to clamber up ladders every month to replace or charge batteries. That’s a bright idea for anyone. Read on for my full list of recommendations, and if you have any more solar-powered suggestions, feel free to share them in the comments.
Here comes the sun
Ring
Ring Solar Charger for Battery Video Doorbell
Nanoleaf
Solar Garden Lights (2 Pack)
Govee
Outdoor Solar String Lights (10m)
Roberts
Revival Uno Bluetooth Solar Digital Radio
EZVIZ
Solar Battery Doorbell Camera, Wireless
Eva Solo
Sunlight Solar LED Outdoor Lamp
Eva Solo
Sunlight Bell Solar LED Outdoor Light
Kaemingk
Solar-Powered Stone Effect Water Feature
Philips
Nysil Solar Motion Sensor Security Light
Nordlux
Alya Motion Sensor Solar Wall Light
IKEA
Solarvet LED Lighting Chain With 24 Lights
House of Marley
Roots Solar Portable Bluetooth Speaker
