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Sources last reviewed 2026-11-01

Content updated

Maryland plug-in solar status

Law in effectLaw in effect
Where Maryland stands: Maryland's plug-in-solar provisions in HB 1532 / Chapter 353 took effect July 1, 2026. One qualifying certified device up to 1,200 watts is allowed per residential electric meter, with mandatory utility notification before installation.

The key facts

Bill or law
HB 1532, Chapter 353, §7-321
Size limit
One certified device up to 1,200 watts per residential electric meter
Signed
2026-05-12
Effective date / scope
2026-07-01

Timing and implementation

  • Section 4, containing §7-321, took effect July 1, 2026. Emergency provisions elsewhere in Chapter 353 do not move the plug-in-solar start date to the May 12 signing date.

Before installing, notify the electric company and provide a certificate describing the device's safety features and maximum generating capacity. Use the Maryland PSC's utility-by-utility forms and contacts linked below.

Devices of 391 W or less have a narrow exemption from product-listing provisions that would require alterations to premises wiring or electrical panels. This does not waive nationally recognized testing laboratory certification.

Prior utility approval is not required for a qualifying device, but notification is mandatory. Confirm local electrical, building, fire, mounting, and property requirements.

Installation checklist for Maryland

  • Choose one qualifying certified device of no more than 1,200 W per residential electric meter.
  • Before installation, use the PSC's utility notification guidance and supply the safety and maximum-generation certificate.
  • Verify circuit, code, and mounting requirements; the 391 W wiring/panel exception does not remove certification requirements.

Before you buy in Maryland

This page is informational research, not legal advice — and it can fall out of date quickly.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.

Maryland plug-in solar FAQ

Do I need utility approval or notice in Maryland?

A qualifying device does not need prior utility approval, but you must notify the electric company before installation and provide a certificate describing safety features and maximum generation. The Maryland PSC links the applicable utility forms and contacts.

Are devices of 391 W or less exempt from safety certification?

No. The exception concerns product-listing provisions requiring alterations to premises wiring or panels. Eligible devices still need nationally recognized testing laboratory certification.

Estimate your savings in Maryland

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.

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