Plugin Solar Central

Last reviewed 2026-07-02

California plug-in solar status

Bill advancingActive bill
Where California stands: California SB 868 would define portable solar generation devices and exempt qualifying devices from interconnection requirements. CalMatters listed the bill as in progress on June 29, 2026.

The key facts

Bill or law
SB 868
Size limit
1200 watts
Takes effect
Not verified

The official bill text describes a portable solar generation device as a movable photovoltaic device with maximum aggregated AC output of 1,200 watts to a building electrical system.

CalMatters reported the July 1 hearing was postponed by committee, so this is not listed here as enacted.

Before you buy in California

This page is informational research, not legal advice — and it can fall out of date quickly. Before installing anything, confirm the current law and its start date, any size limit, your local building and fire codes, your utility’s requirements, that the kit is certified as a complete system, your landlord or homeowners association (HOA) rules, a safe way to mount it, and the maker’s instructions.

Estimate your savings in California

Use the calculator to get a rough idea. For a truer number, swap the national average electricity price for your own rate (it’s on your bill), and remember that surplus power you send back may earn nothing unless your state and utility specifically pay for it.

Estimated monthly savings$12
Electricity made per year794 kWh
Time to pay off8.0 years

A planning estimate, not a promise. It doesn’t check whether plug-in solar is legal where you live, whether a kit is certified, whether your outlet or mount is suitable, or whether your utility pays for surplus power.

Sources