The Rise of Plug-In Solar Panels Amid Utility Pushback

Plug-in solar panels, also known as balcony solar systems, are gaining traction in the United States as homeowners and renters seek to mitigate rising energy costs. These easy-to-install systems connect to standard outlets and can significantly reduce utility bills. Cora Stryker, co-founder of the California nonprofit Bright Saver, notes that interest in these systems has surged recently, paralleling their popularity in Germany, where over 1.2 million such systems are registered.

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In the U.S., state lawmakers are introducing bills to simplify the installation process for plug-in solar panels by eliminating complex utility connection agreements that typically apply to larger rooftop systems. Utah was the first state to enact such legislation, with approximately 30 similar proposals now under consideration nationwide. However, electric utilities are raising safety concerns, arguing that these systems could pose risks to lineworkers and the general public. For instance, Emily Pateuk, a lobbyist for Georgia Electric Membership Corp., cited safety as a reason for opposing House Bill 1304, leading to delays in legislative votes in several states, including Arizona, New Mexico, Washington, and Wyoming.

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Utilities assert that plug-in solar panels could continue generating electricity during outages, potentially endangering lineworkers. Nathan Nicholas, an attorney for Rocky Mountain Power, emphasized the need for safety protocols, stating that without proper connection agreements, utilities cannot ensure the safety of these devices. However, safety experts like Ken Boyce from UL Solutions argue that the risks associated with plug-in solar can be managed through proper design and certification processes. UL Solutions has initiated a testing program for these systems to ensure they meet safety standards.

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As utility costs continue to rise, many consumers are exploring DIY solar setups to avoid high connection fees and reduce their energy bills. Reports indicate that savings from these systems can range from $100 annually to $35-$50 monthly, depending on various factors such as location and utility rates. Stryker believes that legislative changes in multiple states could lead to widespread adoption of plug-in solar technology, similar to trends seen in Germany, where such systems have become commonplace.

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Virginia's legislature has passed a bill supporting plug-in solar, with Governor Abigail Spanberger expected to sign it into law. Stryker anticipates that once several states enact similar legislation, mass adoption of balcony solar will follow. Manufacturers are already working towards obtaining UL Solutions certification for their products, which is expected to facilitate quicker market entry.

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While proponents of plug-in solar argue that safety concerns are overstated and manageable, utilities maintain that these systems pose significant risks that must be addressed through regulation. The debate continues as lawmakers weigh the potential benefits of increased solar adoption against the safety concerns raised by utility companies.

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• “The safety of our linemen and others that work on that system is a reason that we oppose House Bill 1304,” — Emily Pateuk, Lobbyist, Georgia Electric Membership Corp.

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• “Kicking up dust regarding safety concerns is definitely a strategy that is being used by people who don't want this for their own self-interested reasons.” — Cora Stryker, Co-founder, Bright Saver.

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• “This bill does present a lot of safety concerns to the utilities,” — Nathan Nicholas, Attorney, Rocky Mountain Power.

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