At Least 30 US States Move to Legalize 1,200-Watt Plug-In Solar Kits
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Jun 14
At Least 30 US States Move to Legalize 1,200-Watt Plug-In Solar Kits
2 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Jun 14
Summary
At least 30 states have passed or are weighing laws to allow plug-in solar kits, a shift that could open small-scale solar access to apartment and condo residents.
Utah, led by Republicans, became the first state last year to allow sales of the kits, which can be mounted on a wall, railing or garden and plugged into a standard outlet.
Kits priced below $600 in Germany typically generate up to 1,200 watts—enough to offset part of a household’s electricity use without a full rooftop installation.
The push comes as traditional solar remains hard for many Americans to access, while U.S. solar generation last month exceeded coal power for the first time.
Germany’s balcony solar is half the price of America's. Why are U.S. consumers paying so much more?
As millions plug solar panels into wall outlets, what are the hidden risks for the nation's power grid?
The Plug-In Solar Revolution: How 30% Higher Electricity Prices Are Powering a U.S. Clean Energy Movement (2026)
Overview
As of June 2026, the United States is seeing a rapid rise in plug-in solar adoption, driven by escalating energy costs and a strong consumer push for accessible, decentralized clean energy. With residential electricity prices up 30% since 2020, more Americans—including renters—are turning to small-scale options like balcony solar panels to cut utility bills and protect against future increases. This movement is supported by evolving legislation, such as efforts led by State Senator Scott Wiener, aiming to make plug-in solar easier to adopt and more affordable for households. Together, these trends are reshaping the residential energy landscape.