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California Formally Legalizes Smaller, Cheaper 'Balcony Solar' Panels
The law lets renters and homeowners plug 1,200-watt panels into wall outlets, and supporters say it could cut electric bills for people without rooftops.
- On Wednesday, Governor Gavin Newsom signed the Plug and Play Solar Act, allowing California residents to install balcony solar panels without navigating complex utility interconnection processes.
- Current regulations require lengthy interconnection agreements; Pacific Gas & Electric representatives said the process costs up to $800 and takes days to complete.
- Approved systems must generate no more than 1,200 watts and be certified by safety organizations like UL Solutions. Proponents estimate the technology can meet 20% of a home's electricity needs, saving up to $500 annually.
- Implementation begins in 2027, though the law sunsets January 1, 2030. Investor-owned utilities PG&E and SDG&E opposed the measure, citing safety concerns and potential cost-shifting to non-solar customers.
- Newsom also signed complementary legislation—SB 905 and SB 913—designed to optimize grid infrastructure and support virtual power plants, aiming to curb California's rising electricity bills.
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California gives the green light to balcony solar
Californians who can’t install rooftop solar are getting another way to tap into the sunshine. Governor Gavin Newsom signed a bill opening the door to small plug-in solar, also known as balcony solar, alongside two laws designed to get more out of home energy devices and the grid California already has. All three were signed on September 30. more…
·Fremont, United States
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California Officially Legalizes Balcony Solar, Opening the Market to the New Technology
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed legislation to make it simpler for Californians to install plug-in solar panels. Models that meet state standards are expected to be on sale in mid-2027.
·San Francisco, United States
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Total News Sources12
Leaning Left5Leaning Right0Center1Last UpdatedBias Distribution83% Left
Bias Distribution
- 83% of the sources lean Left
83% Left
L 83%
C 17%
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