Balcony Solar Is Spreading Across The US
CleanTechnica • • business
Key Points:
- The balcony solar movement, which started in Ukraine and gained momentum in Germany with over a million units installed, is rapidly expanding in the US, driven by rising fossil fuel costs linked to geopolitical tensions.
- Illinois is considering Senate Bill 3104 to simplify the installation of plug-in balcony solar panels by removing utility pre-authorization requirements and limiting fees, while also restricting property owner and HOA obstacles.
- Safety standards for balcony solar systems are being established, with UL Solutions launching a certification program (UL 3700) to ensure safe design, performance, and installation of these plug-in photovoltaic systems.
- Utah is currently the only US state with a comprehensive balcony solar law, but several others, including Maryland, Minnesota, New York, and Illinois, are actively considering similar legislation.
- The recent escalation of conflict in the Middle East, termed "operation Epic Fury," has caused coal and natural gas prices to spike, undermining efforts to promote coal power domestically due to increased transportation and fuel costs.
