Scott Wiener leads bipartisan effort to pass California bill legalizing portable plug-in solar panels for residents
California legislators have approved Senate Bill 868, a bipartisan measure authored by Scott Wiener that would legalize and standardize portable "plug-in" solar panels. The bill allows residents to install small-scale solar systems on balconies, patios, or backyards and plug them directly into standard 120-volt outlets, bypassing the costly and complex interconnection agreements typically required for rooftop solar. Scott Wiener noted that the legislation is a significant win for affordability, particularly for renters and homeowners with modest homes who may not have the capital for traditional rooftop systems. The bill establishes safety standards, requiring systems to be certified by national testing labs and capable of automatically shutting off during power outages to protect utility workers. While advocates believe the technology will save residents hundreds of dollars annually, some large utilities like Pacific Gas and Electric Co. expressed concerns regarding safety and the potential for costs to shift to non-solar users. If signed by Governor Gavin Newsom, the legislation will take effect on January 1, 2027.