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?
Yes.
California's Senate Bill 868, the Plug and Play Solar Act, authored by Sen. Scott Wiener, was signed on September 30, 2026. SB 868 exempts small plug-in solar devices (below 1,200W connecting to standard 120V outlets) from state and utility interconnection requirements. Utility notification will be required when the bill takes effect Jan 1 2027.
Bright Saver does not yet ship to California because the state's law requires full system (UL 3700) certification. You can reserve a UL 3700 kit now and we'll ship as soon as certification is complete.
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
30 September 2026
Effective
1 January 2027
Maximum System Size
1,200 W
No-Electrician Threshold
N/A
Permit Required
No
Utility Notification
Notification may be required after installation
HOA Can Prohibit
Bright Saver Ships Here
N/A
Not yet, awaiting full system cert. Reserve now.
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
While we complete UL 3700 certification for California, you can reserve your kit today. A $29 annual membership unlocks member pricing, reservation priority, and supports Bright Saver's work to make plug-in solar accessible in every state.
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