Democrat Congressman Rob Menendez of New Jersey has introduced the Socket Full of Sunshine Act, the first federal bill targeting plug-in solar in the US
It proposes $600 million in federal funding over six years under the DOE, including rebates of up to $1,000 for eligible households
Rebate-eligible devices would need to be manufactured in the US, a proposal backed by the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America Coalition
Following a wave of state-level efforts to legalize plug-in solar, the US is now considering federal action to expand its adoption. A new congressional bill proposes rebates of up to $1,000 for eligible households, along with measures to address regulatory barriers and improve access for renters amid rising electricity bills.
Introduced by New Jersey Representative Rob Menendez, the Socket Full of Sunshine Act seeks to make plug-in solar more accessible nationwide.
The legislation could help expand the market for small-scale solar systems that connect to standard household outlets. These provide an alternative for residents who can't install conventional rooftop solar.
Plug-in solar systems, also known as balcony solar, typically consist of one to four solar panels that can be installed on balconies, patios, or in backyards and connected to a standard electrical outlet. These systems generate electricity for household appliances, reducing the power drawn from the grid.
However, regulatory requirements vary across the US, and some states and utilities require plug-in systems to follow approval processes and interconnection rules designed for larger solar installations. These requirements can increase costs and limit access, particularly for renters and apartment residents.
Under the proposed legislation, state public utility commissions would be required to consider removing barriers such as utility approvals, interconnection agreements, fees, insurance requirements, and equipment restrictions.
The bill would also set clear safety standards for plug-in solar devices and require labels that indicate expected electricity savings for consumers.
It proposes to create a $100 million annual Department of Energy (DOE) grant program to support state rebates for low- and moderate-income households. Eligible low- and moderate-income households could receive rebates of up to $1,000 toward the purchase of plug-in solar systems. The program will run for six years, from fiscal 2027 through fiscal 2032.
The bill also seeks to protect renters’ ability to use plug-in solar. States would need to provide such protections to qualify for the proposed rebate funding, potentially widening access to residential solar beyond property owners who can install rooftop systems.
The proposal also aims to support domestic manufacturing, an objective backed by the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America Coalition. Under the bill, plug-in solar devices would need to be manufactured in the US, with domestically sourced components accounting for more than 55% of total component costs, to qualify for rebates.
Mike Carr, Executive of the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America Coalition, explains, “By prioritizing American-made products and tying federal rebates to domestic manufacturing and content requirements, this legislation can help create new demand for U.S.-made solar products and strengthen our domestic supply chains.”
The proposal comes amid growing state-level interest in the technology. Utah became the first US state to legalize plug-in solar in 2025, and additional states have pursued legislation in 2026. California became the 10th US state to legalize plug-in solar as of September 2026 (see North America Solar PV News Snippets).
Bright Saver, a clean energy nonprofit organization, believes the bill opens the door to energy equity for renters and homeowners in all 50 states.
The Sierra Club, the New Jersey chapter of the League of Conservation Voters, the Consumer Federation of America, and Evergreen Action also endorse this legislation.
