California lawmakers have passed a bill that makes it easier for residents to use small solar systems that plug into standard electrical outlets. These systems, often called balcony solar, are small enough to be mounted on a balcony or placed in a yard, and are designed to offset electricity used inside a home without requiring the wiring work and installation costs associated with rooftop solar. The bill, SB 868, would allow qualifying systems to generate up to 1,200 watts per home and would replace the utility interconnection application required for rooftop solar with a free online registration form.
The new law could be a game-changer for renters and others who can’t install traditional rooftop solar, as it would provide a more affordable and accessible option for generating renewable energy. The systems are relatively inexpensive, with prices ranging from $300 to $2,200, and could help offset a significant portion of a typical renter’s annual electricity bill. For example, a 400-watt solar panel could save a renter around $250 per year, which is enough to support a refrigerator, modem, and Wi-Fi equipment.
If the bill is signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom, compatible systems could be available in California by spring 2027. The legislation has garnered bipartisan support and is seen as a way to reduce the cost of power for Californians and eliminate red tape. While some utilities have raised safety concerns, advocates point to the success of similar systems in other states and countries, such as Germany, where balcony-mounted panels have become common. The bill’s passage sends a signal to the emerging market and could make California an important hub for the technology.