Balcony Solar in California
Everything you need to know about plug-in and balcony solar law in California, plus what it means for what you're allowed to plug in, and what it saves.
Is it legal?
Currently unregulated - bill actively moving through the legislature.
California's Senate Bill 868, the Plug and Play Solar Act, authored by Sen. Scott Wiener, passed the California Senate 35-1 in May 2026 and is now advancing through the Assembly, where it has cleared the Utilities & Energy Committee. If signed into law, SB 868 would exempt small plug-in solar devices (400W to 1,200W connecting to standard 120V outlets) from state and utility interconnection requirements, and bar utilities from charging any fees related to owning or operating such a device.
Until California passes the bill into law, plug-in solar sits in a legal gray area: utilities can require interconnection review, permits, and fees.
Bright Saver's policy team is actively working with the California coalition to move SB 868 across the finish line.
Bright Saver's 180W and 360W kits can be shipped to California and we welcome early adopters.
What You Can Save in California
California's average residential electricity price is about 31.4 cents per kWh (EIA, 2026 average). A 180 W kit generating about 270 kWh a year could save roughly $85 a year; a 360 W kit roughly $170.
California's high electricity rates mean each kilowatt-hour the panel produces is worth more than in most states. The kit more than pays for itself over its life, with no roof work or contractor needed.
The rules, in one table
Bill
Signed
SB 868
Bill in progress
Effective
N/A
Maximum System Size
1,200 W (proposed)
No-Electrician Threshold
N/A
Permit Required
No (proposed)
Utility Notification
Not required (proposed)
HOA Can Prohibit
Bright Saver Ships Here
N/A
Yes
If You Rent in California
Plug-in solar is designed with renters in mind. Nothing is drilled or wired into the building, and the kit moves with you when your lease ends.
What to buy
Bright Saver's kits ship to California today. A $29 annual membership unlocks member pricing and directly supports the coalition working to move California's bill across the finish line.
Balcony Solar 180 W
Do-It-Yourself, No roof or electrician needed
MEMBER-ONLY PRICE
Balcony Solar 360 W
Do-It-Yourself, No roof or electrician needed
MEMBER-ONLY PRICE