Both chambers approve plug-in solar bill

New Jersey is on the cusp of joining the plug-in solar movement. On June 30, 2026, both chambers of the legislature unanimously passed the Garden State Plug-In Solar Act (S2368/A4836), a bill that lets residents install and use portable solar generation devices of up to 1,200 watts without an installation permit or utility approval.

The unanimous votes are a strong signal: plug-in solar has become a rare bipartisan bright spot in energy policy. The bill now heads to the governor's desk, where a signature would make New Jersey one of the first densely populated, renter-heavy states to legalize balcony solar.

What the bill would allow

• Portable solar devices up to 1,200W of output.
• No installation permit required for a qualifying kit.
• No utility interconnection application or approval.
• A practical path for renters and apartment dwellers to cut their bills.

What happens next

Until the governor signs, the law is not yet in effect — so hold off on plugging in until the bill is enacted and any implementation details are published. We'll update this page the moment it's signed.