Climate Conversations

Plug in Solar Panels Are Here

Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the Plug and Play Solar Act, SB868: It will take effect on January 1, 2027. This bill specifies a statewide safety standard for Plug-in solar, sets the size of the panels at a max of 1,200 watts and states the the utility companies are not involved so that permissions and fees do not apply. Panels come with integrated microinverters and need to be US manufactured and certified as safe.

Renters and homeowners can buy solar panels that will plug into a regular home outlet. They will save on their electric bills. Soon, we will see solar panels hanging from balconies, propped up against patio fences, and in many other creative configurations. Other countries such as Germany have had these panels available in hardware stores and big box stores for years.

Several companies say that they will have products market ready not long into the new year. Stay up-to-date on availability through the Solar Rights Alliance.