New Jersey has cleared the way for households to use plug-in solar systems
The law intends to expand access to solar for people who cannot install traditional rooftop systems
The measure includes provisions covering system size, installation, and property restrictions
New Jersey has become the ninth US state to enact legislation allowing plug-in solar systems after Governor Mikie Sherrill signed the Garden State Balcony Solar Act (S2368/A4836) on September 1, 2026.
Under the law, plug-in solar devices can connect to a home's existing electrical system through a standard 120-volt outlet. The New Jersey governor's office said most systems include a microinverter and adapter and can help offset household electricity use.
The law allows customers to use portable solar devices with a combined output of up to 1,200 W without an interconnection agreement. Systems of 400 W or less are also exempt from requirements that would require changes to a building’s wiring or electrical panel, but must still meet applicable safety standards.
It also prohibits landlords, homeowner associations, and municipalities from banning these systems or requiring permits for their use.
Available as a kit comprising solar panels, a microinverter, an adapter, mounting hardware, and a cable that enables direct plugging into a standard power outlet, plug-solar is seen as providing renters and apartment dwellers access to solar.
“Balcony solar is a practical, easy-to-use tool that can help families save money while allowing more people to participate in our clean energy future. This bill cuts unnecessary red tape, expands access to affordable solar power, and proves that affordability and sustainability can go hand in hand,” stated Sherrill while signing the act.
The move brings New Jersey into a group of nine US states that have enacted explicit plug-in solar frameworks, according to PlugInSolarUS. The list includes Utah, Maine, Virginia, Colorado, Maryland, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, and New Jersey, as of September 1, 2026. The New Jersey act will take effect on March 1, 2027, it adds.
New Jersey may be followed by New York, where the SUNNY Act was passed by the Assembly as well as the Senate, but awaits Governor Kathy Hochul’s signature to be enacted (see North America Solar PV News Snippets).
California’s Plug and Play Solar Act, introduced by Senator Scott Weiner, is also awaiting Governor Gavin Newsom’s signature.
Meanwhile, legislation in several other states continues to move through different stages. Overall, 34 states are taking some action to make plug-in solar legal.
