Is plug-in balcony solar legal in my state?

Q: Is plug-in balcony solar legal in my state?

As of our October 15, 2026 review, 10 states have passed plug-in solar laws: Colorado, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Utah and Vermont already, and California, New Hampshire, New Jersey and Virginia from 2027. Most cap a kit at 1,200 W, and most require a kit certified by a testing lab. Elsewhere, connecting any generator to the grid falls under your utility's normal interconnection rules, so ask the utility first.

Updated October 25, 2026. Every answer lists the sources we read it from. If we couldn't back an answer, we left the question out.

Utah (HB 340): Signed March 2025; in effect since May 7, 2025.
Maine (LD 1730): Signed April 6, 2026 (Public Law 2025, c. 644).
Virginia (HB 395 / SB 250): Signed April 22, 2026; takes effect January 1, 2027.
Colorado (HB26-1007): Signed May 7, 2026; in effect since August 12, 2026.
Maryland (HB 1532): Signed May 12, 2026 (Chapter 353); in effect since July 1, 2026.
Connecticut (HB 5340): Signed June 4, 2026 (Public Act 26-127); in effect since October 1, 2026.
Vermont (S.202): Signed June 16, 2026 (Act 149); in effect since July 1, 2026.
New Hampshire (SB 540): Signed July 2, 2026 (Chapter 262); takes effect January 1, 2027.
New Jersey (S2368 / A4836): Signed September 1, 2026; the governor's office says it takes effect March 1, 2027.
California (SB 868): Signed September 30, 2026 (Chapter 985); takes effect January 1, 2027.
New York (S8512C / A9111C): pending.

Each law sets its own rules on size, certification, notice to the utility and whether exported power earns credit. Our plug-in solar guide summarizes each one and links to the bill.

Run your own numbers: Plug-in solar guide and state law details

Sources

All 8 questions on home solar · Every question we answer

Plug-in solar guideBalcony kits, state laws and what they produce.

Estimates only. Your actual costs depend on your utility's rate plan, how and when you charge or use power, and local prices. This is general information, not financial, tax or legal advice. See our disclaimer.

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