How to safely connect your plug & play solar panels and batteries

Plug & Play solar panels and batteries are convenient: you plug them into an outlet and they are ready to generate electricity, store it, or both. But safe connection remains important. Follow these guidelines:

**1. Choose a safe location**

Make sure the device is securely placed, so that it cannot fall over or cause damage, especially with solar panels during wind or storms. Place the device in an accessible location. Choose a location suitable for placing the device (protection against rain, dust, moisture…). Make sure the device is kept away from flammable materials. Make sure the device does not obstruct passages. Make sure the device is well ventilated so heat can escape.

Tip: Never place a battery in a closed cabinet without ventilation, in hollow construction spaces (such as false ceilings, false floors). Pay attention to where you place the device in your home for the safety of residents. Placing batteries in a bedroom, for example, is an unsafe choice.

**2. Check your outlet and electrical installation**

Read the manufacturer's instructions for installation and use. The manufacturer indicates in the technical specifications under which conditions the equipment can be used safely. Check whether the relevant outlet and the circuit that feeds this outlet are suitable, as well as your electrical installation. We recommend providing a circuit to which only the device is connected. For permanent placement in a home, this separate circuit is mandatory for plug & play solar panels and batteries from 2600 W.

Always use a fixed outlet and avoid extension cords or power strips. Keep the device and the connection accessible for maintenance or emergencies. If in doubt, seek advice from an electrical installer, or have it checked by an accredited body. They can assess your electrical installation and confirm whether the plug & play solar panels and batteries can be safely connected.

**Does an inspection need to take place before use?**

When plug & play solar panels and batteries are connected to an outlet, no inspection is required before use. If your electrical installation needs to be modified to safely connect the plug & play solar panels and batteries, make sure everything meets the safety requirements of Book 1 of the General Regulation on Electrical Installations (AREI). Significant changes (for example, adding a circuit to which only plug & play solar panels and batteries are connected) must be checked by an accredited body.

**3. Safe handling of electricity**

Always unplug the device from the outlet before any intervention on your electrical installation. This prevents current from flowing back into the electrical installation and you receiving an electric shock. Watch out for residual voltage: a dangerous voltage can remain on the plug of the device for a few seconds after you have pulled the plug out. Follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.

Always warn everyone who needs to work on your electrical installation that plug & play solar panels and batteries are present. Do not forget to indicate the plug & play solar panels and batteries on the single-line diagrams and situation plans of your electrical installation.

**4. Other rules and formalities**

Other rules and formalities may apply. Inform yourself about: - reporting your plug & play solar panels or batteries to the grid operator; - municipal regulations such as urban planning regulations and police regulations; - the internal regulations of co-ownership in an apartment building from your property manager.

Are you unsure whether your fire insurance covers the installation? Do not take any risks: contact your broker or insurer and avoid unpleasant surprises afterwards.

Source: economie.fgov.be January 16, 2026