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Plug-in solar and batteries

A new way to access solar is being explored in WA 

The WA Government is working towards legalising plug-in solar and batteries. 

Sometimes called balcony solar, these are small systems designed to connect to a home electricity supply through a standard power point. They could provide another way for people to benefit from renewable energy, particularly renters, apartment residents and customers who cannot install traditional rooftop solar.

Oct 28, 2026

The new arrangements are not in place yet. 

The WA Government is currently consulting on the safety, technical and regulatory requirements that would need to be met before plug-in solar and batteries can be legally used. 

 

Have your say on the WA Government consultation

 

Public consultation is underway on the proposed legalisation pathway and technical standards. 

Feedback closes 5 pm, 9 December 2026.  

After consultation, the WA Government intends to consider feedback and develop an updated certification route and Technical Bridging Standard. Subject to that consultation and further technical work, the consultation paper anticipates this work being completed by February 2027, after which regulatory changes would be prepared.

Following consultation, we’ll keep customers updated as the final requirements and next steps are confirmed.

 

 

Frequently asked questions

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Plug-in solar is a small solar generation system designed to connect to a home's electricity supply through a standard wall socket. Some products can also include battery storage. 

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“Balcony solar” is a commonly used name because some systems can be mounted on balconies. The proposed requirements allow plug-in solar to be installed in different ways, including on balconies, walls, fences or on the ground. 

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No, right now plug-in solar systems cannot be legally connected and used in WA. The WA Government is currently consulting on the pathway to legalise these systems.  

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You may see plug-in solar and batteries advertised online, but we recommend waiting until the WA requirements are finalised before buying one. 

The rules and technical requirements are still being developed. A system purchased now may not meet the final requirements or be suitable for Horizon Power’s electricity systems. This could affect how well the system performs and the savings you receive. 

Once the requirements are finalised, customers will have clearer information about products and the appropriate settings for use on Horizon Power’s network. 

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Safety is a key part of the WA Government consultation. The proposed requirements are being developed to make sure plug-in solar and batteries can be safely used in Western Australian conditions. Until these requirements are finalised, customers should not connect or use these systems. 

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The WA Government consultation closes on 9 December 2026. The proposed requirements may change as a result of consultation. Horizon Power will update this page as more information becomes available and provide customers with clear information about what they need to do once the requirements are finalised. 

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