Balcony Solar in Connecticut
Everything you need to know about plug-in and balcony solar law in Connecticut, plus what it means for what you're allowed to plug in, and what it saves.
Is it legal?
Yes.
Connecticut's House Bill 5340 (Public Act 26-127) was signed into law and takes effect on 1 October 2026. It permits systems up to 1,200W of plug-in solar per customer, which can be plugged into a standard outlet with no permit and no utility approval required.
The law bars utilities from charging any fee related to a qualifying plug-in solar device.
Bright Saver's 180W and 360W kits both sit well below Connecticut's 1,200W cap, so they need no electrician, no dedicated circuit and no permit.
What You Can Save in Connecticut
Connecticut's average residential electricity price is about 28.6 cents per kWh (EIA, 2026 average), the highest in the continental United States. A 180 W kit generating about 270 kWh a year saves roughly $77 a year; a 360 W kit roughly $155.
Connecticut's high electricity rates mean each kilowatt-hour the panel produces is worth more than in almost any other state. The kit pays for itself faster here than most places, with no roof work or contractor needed.
The rules, in one table
Bill
Signed
HB 5340 (Public Act 26-127)
4 June 2026
Effective
1 October 2026
Maximum System Size
1,200 W
No-Electrician Threshold
N/A
Permit Required
No
Utility Notification
Not required
HOA Can Prohibit
Bright Saver Ships Here
N/A
Yes
If You Rent in Connecticut
Nothing in HB 5340 requires a landlord's permission for a plug-in system, and nothing is drilled or wired into the building. The kit comes down in under ten minutes when you move.
What to buy
Both Bright Saver kits qualify for Connecticut's simplest tier. A $29 annual membership unlocks member pricing below. Free shipping to Connecticut.
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