'Balcony solar' DIY panels could be coming to Britain

From herb boxes and flowerpots to washing lines and hanging baskets, residents of Madrid, Berlin and other European cities are well versed in making the most of their compact balconies - even generating power for their wifi, the kettle and the TV.

- Shane Hickey

"Balcony solar" allows residents to install a small number of panels in the tight space outside apartments that then generate electricity which can be used for the household. Now flat owners and renters in Britain could soon be able to use the same technology, which is currently prohibited.

The DIY systems are typically plugged straight into the home's power sockets, saving money on electricity bills and allowing people access to a new source of power.

However, UK regulations on solar systems and wiring mean professionals must be involved in their installation and the panels cannot simply be plugged into the mains like a toaster.

In some European countries residents are allowed to put in place their own small systems - such as panels hung off a balcony.