Cody CooperNew Jersey lawmakers have approved legislation that would legalize plug-in solar systems, making solar energy more accessible to renters, apartment dwellers, and homeowners who cannot install traditional rooftop solar.
The bipartisan measure, known as the Garden State Balcony Solar Act (S2368/A4836), was unanimously passed by both chambers of the New Jersey Legislature on June 30 and now awaits the governor’s signature.
New Jersey Could Become the 10th State to Allow Plug-In Solar
If signed into law, New Jersey will become the 10th U.S. state to establish a legal framework for plug-in solar, joining states including Utah, Colorado, Maine, Maryland, Virginia, Vermont, Connecticut, and New Hampshire.
The legislation would allow residents to install portable solar generation devices with capacities of up to 1,200 watts without obtaining an installation permit or utility interconnection approval, provided the systems meet applicable safety standards.
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Safety and Certification Requirements
The bill requires qualifying systems to comply with the National Electrical Code (NEC) and be certified under UL 3700 or an equivalent safety standard.
Portable solar devices with outputs of 400 watts or less are exempt from the UL 3700 certification requirement.
The legislation also exempts utilities from liability for property damage or power quality issues resulting from customer-owned plug-in solar devices.
Protections for Renters and Apartment Residents
The legislation expands access for renters by preventing landlords, homeowners associations (HOAs), and condominium associations from outright prohibiting plug-in solar systems.
However, property owners and associations may establish reasonable restrictions regarding the size, placement, or installation of the devices. Tenants must provide written notice and safety documentation at least 14 days before installation.
Strong Public Support for Plug-In Solar
Supporters say the measure will help lower electricity costs while broadening access to clean energy for households that have historically been unable to participate in rooftop solar programs.
According to an April poll by Fairleigh Dickinson University, between 74% and 82% of registered New Jersey voters supported the legislation.
Balcony Solar Continues to Gain Momentum
The bill comes as plug-in, or “balcony,” solar systems continue gaining momentum across the United States and Europe.
Unlike traditional rooftop systems, these portable solar panels are designed to plug directly into a standard household outlet, offering a lower-cost option for generating electricity without major structural modifications.
Industry observers view the legislation as part of a broader effort to expand distributed renewable energy and make solar technology accessible to a wider range of consumers.
Sources:
- New Jersey Legislature: Garden State Balcony Solar Act, S2368
- pv magazine USA: New Jersey Legislature Unanimously Passes Plug-In Solar Bill
- pv magazine International: New Jersey Legislature Unanimously Passes Plug-In Solar Bill
- Fairleigh Dickinson University: Poll Finds Strong Support for Balcony Solar
Daniyal Ahmed
Marley Kakusa
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