New Hampshire and Vermont Poised to Adopt Innovative Balcony Solar Legislation – Mother Jones

September 27, 2025

New Legislation Could Bring ‘Plug-In’ Solar to More US Homes

Compact solar kits, designed for easy assembly and direct connection to standard electrical outlets, are poised to become accessible to residents in New Hampshire and Vermont. Lawmakers in both states are actively developing legislation aimed at making these “plug-in” solar systems available to homeowners who may lack the space, funds, or desire for customary rooftop installations.

The Push for Energy affordability

Advocates emphasize the potential of these systems to address energy affordability. Kevin Chou, cofounder of Radiant Saver, a nonprofit promoting plug-in solar adoption, states this is about expanding access to solar power for those previously unable to participate. These systems-also commonly referred to as “portable” or “balcony solar”-are designed to be installed by homeowners with minimal technical expertise.

Instead of drawing power from the grid, these kits feed the electricity they generate directly into a home’s existing electrical system.while not designed to fully power a household, they can significantly offset energy consumption, potentially paying for themselves within four to five years, even without subsidies like tax credits or net metering. Current market prices for these systems begin around $2,000, and broader adoption could drive costs down further.

A Growing Trend, Starting in europe

These systems have already gained significant traction in Europe, notably in Germany, where over a million units have been deployed. their adoption in the United States, though, has been slower. In March, Utah became the first state to proactively encourage plug-in solar with new legislation authorizing and regulating the equipment. Pennsylvania is considering similar measures, and Bright Saver is engaging with legislators in approximately a dozen other states.

“This creates access for folks who might otherwise not have the authority to put something on their roof.”

Legislative Framework and Safety Standards

Proposed legislation mirrors Utah’s approach, defining a new category for small, portable solar systems and guaranteeing households the right to use them without extensive applications or fees. Essential to these proposals are defined safety standards, requiring certification by Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Currently, only two manufacturers have inverters certified to meet these standards, though more are anticipated as the market grows. UL is nearing completion of comprehensive standards for entire plug-in solar systems, expected within the next few months.

Feature	Plug-in Solar	Traditional Rooftop Solar
installation Complexity	DIY-amiable, minimal expertise required	Professional installation required
Cost	starting around $2,000	Typically $15,000 – $25,000+
Energy Output	Offsets some consumption	Potential to cover most or all energy needs
Regulatory Hurdles	Lower, with emerging legislation	Permitting and inspections frequently enough required

Political Momentum and Future Outlook

Despite some political headwinds, supporters are optimistic about the broad appeal of plug-in solar. Ben Edgerly Walsh of the Vermont Public Interest Research Group believes the technology’s simplicity will resonate even in states not traditionally supportive of renewable energy. In New Hampshire, State Senator David Watters sees the appeal of empowering individual energy choices within the state’s libertarian ethos.

Vermont legislators are championing a bill based on Bright Saver’s model legislation, with a particular focus on expanding access to low-income residents and renters. Governor Phil Scott’s administration has expressed openness to the idea, despite the state’s recent political shifts.

Understanding Solar Energy and its Benefits

Solar energy is a renewable resource that harnesses the power of the sun to generate electricity. Its benefits include reduced carbon emissions, lower electricity bills, and increased energy independence. The upfront investment can be significant, but long-term savings and environmental benefits make it an increasingly attractive option for homeowners.

Did You Know?: The amount of solar energy that reaches the Earth’s surface in one hour is more than enough to power the entire world for a year.

Frequently Asked Questions about Plug-in Solar

• What is plug-in solar? Plug-in solar systems are small, portable solar panel kits that connect directly to a home’s electrical outlet.
• How much does plug-in solar cost? The initial cost of a plug-in solar system starts around $2,000.
• How long does it take for plug-in solar to pay for itself? Typically, it takes four to five years to recoup the investment.
• Is plug-in solar safe? Systems must meet safety standards set by Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
• What states are considering legislation for plug-in solar? New Hampshire, Vermont, and Pennsylvania are currently exploring legislation.
• Can homeowners associations prevent me from installing plug-in solar? Proposed legislation in some states would not prevent HOAs from having rules around installing such systems.
• How does plug-in solar compare to traditional solar panels? Plug-in solar is less expensive and easier to install, but generates less electricity.

What are your thoughts on the future of accessible solar energy? Share your comments below.

what specific challenges related to permitting and HOA restrictions are currently hindering the adoption of balcony solar in New Hampshire and Vermont?

New Hampshire and Vermont Poised to Adopt Innovative balcony Solar Legislation

Expanding Solar Access: A Northeast First

New Hampshire and Vermont are on the cusp of groundbreaking legislation that will dramatically expand access to solar energy, specifically through the utilization of balcony solar panels. This move, highlighted recently by Mother Jones, represents a critically important step towards democratizing renewable energy and empowering residents in multi-family dwellings – a demographic frequently enough excluded from conventional rooftop solar opportunities. The proposed laws address key barriers to entry for urban solar installations and small-scale solar power.

Understanding the Legislation: Key Provisions

Both states’ bills share core principles, though specific details differ.Here’s a breakdown of the key provisions:

* Permitting Streamlining: The legislation aims to simplify the permitting process for balcony-mounted solar systems. Currently,navigating local building codes and homeowner association (HOA) restrictions can be a major hurdle. the new laws will establish standardized guidelines, reducing bureaucratic delays and costs.

* Net Metering Expansion: Crucially, the bills expand net metering policies to include balcony solar.This allows residents to receive credit on their electricity bills for excess energy generated and sent back to the grid. This is vital for making residential solar power financially viable.

* HOA Restrictions Limited: The legislation includes provisions limiting the ability of HOAs to unreasonably restrict the installation of balcony solar panels. Restrictions must be demonstrably tied to safety or aesthetic concerns, not simply a preference against solar technology. This addresses a common complaint regarding solar access rights.

* Safety Standards: The bills mandate adherence to strict safety standards for balcony solar installations, ensuring the structural integrity of buildings and the safety of residents. These standards will likely align with existing electrical and building codes, with specific additions for balcony-mounted PV systems.

Why Balcony Solar? Addressing the Multi-family Housing Gap

Traditional solar installations are largely inaccessible to renters and those living in apartments or condominiums. Balcony solar offers a viable solution:

* Increased Accessibility: It opens up solar energy to a wider range of residents, particularly in densely populated areas.

* Lower Installation costs: Compared to rooftop solar, balcony systems generally have lower upfront costs, making them more affordable.

* Reduced Grid Strain: Distributed generation from balcony solar can help reduce strain on the electricity grid, particularly during peak demand.

* Environmental Benefits: increased solar adoption contributes to reduced carbon emissions and a cleaner energy future. This supports broader renewable energy goals.

Technical Considerations: What You Need to Know

Successfully implementing balcony solar requires careful consideration of several technical factors:

* Panel Type & Size: Portable solar panels and lightweight, flexible panels are best suited for balcony installations. Size limitations will depend on balcony dimensions and weight-bearing capacity.

* Mounting Systems: Secure and weather-resistant mounting systems are essential. Options include railing mounts,wall mounts,and freestanding structures.

* Electrical Connections: Proper electrical connections are crucial for safety and efficiency. This often involves a micro-inverter system to convert DC power to AC power.

* Orientation & Shading: Optimal panel orientation (south-facing is generally best in the Northern Hemisphere) and minimizing shading are key to maximizing energy production. Consider solar panel efficiency when choosing a system.

Real-World Examples & Early Adopters

While widespread adoption is pending legislation, several communities have already seen successful pilot programs. In Freiburg, Germany, a city known for its commitment to sustainability, balcony solar has become increasingly popular. Residents are utilizing balcony panels to offset their electricity bills and contribute to the city’s renewable energy targets. These examples demonstrate the potential for distributed solar generation.

Benefits Beyond Electricity Bills

The advantages of balcony solar extend beyond simply reducing electricity costs:

* Increased Property Value: Homes with solar installations often have higher resale values.

* Energy Independence: Generating your own electricity reduces reliance on traditional energy sources.

* Environmental Stewardship: Contributes to a more enduring future.

* Community Resilience: Distributed solar generation enhances community resilience in the face of grid outages.

Practical Tips for Potential Installers

* **Check Local Regulations