Last reviewed 2026-09-01
California plug-in solar status
The key facts
- Bill or law
- SB 868
- Size limit
- 1200 watts
- Enacted
- Not enacted
- General effective date
- Not applicable or not verified
Until gubernatorial action is confirmed, the bill's proposed portable-solar exemptions are not in force.
The enrolled proposal covers qualifying movable photovoltaic devices with maximum aggregated AC output of 1,200 watts to a building electrical system.
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This page is informational research, not legal advice — and it can fall out of date quickly.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.
A “no dedicated statewide law found” status does not settle those other utility, electrical, building, fire, property, or product-safety requirements.
California plug-in solar FAQ
Is plug-in solar legal in California?
California is currently listed as: Passed legislature — awaiting governor. California SB 868 passed both legislative chambers and was enrolled and presented to the governor. It is not yet law. Always confirm current state law, local code, utility rules, and product certification before installing.
Do I need utility approval for plug-in solar in California?
That depends on the current state rule, your utility tariff, the product, and your installation. Read the cited sources on this page and confirm directly with your utility before buying or plugging in a kit.
What should I check before buying a plug-in solar kit in California?
Check the law or bill status, effective date, size limit, utility requirements, complete-system certification, local building and fire codes, landlord or HOA rules, mounting safety, and the manufacturer'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.
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
- SB-868 Electricity: portable solar generation devicesCalifornia Legislative Information; accessed 2026-09-01