Plug-in solar: where it's legal, and what a kit saves
Plug-in (or "balcony") solar is a small kit, usually one to four panels, that plugs into a regular outlet. It works for renters and for homes where rooftop solar doesn't fit. Ten states have passed laws letting you use one without the utility's approval; six are in effect now.
Checked November 12, 2026; state list as of October 14, 2026
Choose your state
Everything a kit makes is used in your home, so each kWh saves your full electricity rate.
States with a plug-in solar law
| State | Law | Size limit | When | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | SB 868 | 1,200 watts per home | Starts January 1, 2027 | The exemption ends January 1, 2030 unless extended; the utility may ask for online registration. |
| Colorado | HB26-1007 | 1,920 watts | In effect since August 12, 2026 | From January 1, 2027, landlords and HOAs can't unreasonably ban kits. |
| Connecticut | HB 5340 | 1,200 watts, one kit per meter | In effect since October 1, 2026 | Unused power may be billed as usage unless your meter supports net metering. |
| Maine | LD 1730 | 420 watts, or up to 1,200 watts with a licensed electrician and a dedicated outlet | In effect since July 29, 2026 | Kits over 420 watts: tell the utility within 30 days. |
| Maryland | HB 1532 | 1,200 watts per meter | In effect since July 1, 2026 | Notice to the utility before installing; a disconnect switch may be required in some cases. |
| New Hampshire | SB 540 | 1,200 watts | Starts January 1, 2027 | The utility may ask for notice. |
| New Jersey | S 2368 | 1,200 watts per home | Starts March 1, 2027 | Landlords and HOAs can't ban kits; renters who pay their own electric bill give 14 days' written notice. |
| Utah | HB 340 | 1,200 watts | In effect since May 7, 2025 | No renter or HOA protections. |
| Vermont | S. 202 | 1,200 watts per meter, homes with smart meters only | In effect since July 1, 2026 | Renters give 10 days' notice; HOA covenants can't ban kits. |
| Virginia | HB 395 / SB 250 | 1,200 watts | Starts January 1, 2027 | Landlords with more than 4 rental units can't ban kits; notice required before installing. |
Bills still moving
| State | Bill | Status |
|---|---|---|
| New York | SUNNY Act (A.9111-C / S.8512-C) | Passed the Legislature; not yet sent to the governor |
| Massachusetts | H.5175 / S.3143 | In a House and Senate conference committee |
| Illinois | HB 4371 / SB 3104 | Stalled; lawmakers return in November |
| Michigan | HB 5764 | In committee |
| North Carolina | H 1129 / S 957 | In committee |
| Ohio | HB 755 / SB 383 | In committee |
| Pennsylvania | HB 1971 | In committee |
| District of Columbia | B26-0602 (GRID Act) | In committee |
Without a state law, your utility may treat a plug-in kit like any other solar system, which can mean an application and approval before you connect it. Local rules, landlords and HOAs can also limit kits even where they're legal; the notes above say where the law protects you.