California Lawmakers Greenlight Solar Panels You Can Plug Into the Wall

Key Points:

• California lawmakers passed SB 868, legalizing plug-in, or balcony, solar systems that are portable, affordable, and do not require costly installation, making solar energy accessible to renters and those with unsuitable roofs.
• The bill, supported by bipartisan votes and environmental groups, sets device standards including a 1,200-watt cap, safety certifications, and the ability to plug into standard outlets without feeding electricity back into the grid during outages.
• Plug-in solar panels, costing between $300 and $2,200, could significantly lower electricity bills, with a 400-watt panel potentially reducing a renter’s bill by about 14% or $250 annually.
• The legislation aims to simplify the adoption process by eliminating interconnection fees and red tape, although current models do not yet meet the new requirements and the bill includes a sunset clause in 2030.
• If signed by Governor Newsom, compatible plug-in solar kits could become available in California by spring 2027, with the state allocating $200,000 to $500,000 annually to support program administration.