Maryland's Utility RELIEF Act takes effect on signing

Maryland legalized plug-in solar on May 12, 2026, when Gov. Wes Moore signed HB 1532, the Utility RELIEF (Reducing Energy Load Inflation for Everyday Families) Act. Thanks to an emergency clause, the law took effect immediately on signing — making Maryland the fifth U.S. state to legalize balcony solar.

How the rules work

Systems of 391W or less are exempt from UL certification requirements.
Larger systems up to 1,200W need UL-certified equipment plus utility notification.
No lengthy interconnection approval for qualifying kits.

Who benefits

The bipartisan bill was designed to make it faster, cheaper, and easier to install solar and home batteries — with particular attention to Maryland's hundreds of thousands of deregulated-market and renter households.

Sources & further reading

This is general guidance, not legal advice. Plug-in solar rules vary by state, utility, and local code, and they change often. Always confirm current requirements with your utility and local authority before installing.

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