Last reviewed 2026-09-01
Maryland plug-in solar status
The key facts
- Bill or law
- HB 1532
- Size limit
- 1200 watts
- Enacted
- 2026-05-12
- General effective date
- 2026 (section-specific)
Timing and implementation
- The chapter text controls section-specific timing for the plug-in-solar provisions.
The law allows plug-in solar devices up to 1,200 watts. It asks you to notify your utility before installing and to use a device with safety certification — but it exempts the smallest systems, 391 watts or less, from the UL certification requirement.
Utilities cannot require approval before you install a qualifying device, and the law covers renters as well as homeowners.
As always, confirm your local building and fire codes and any landlord or homeowners association (HOA) rules before installing.
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This page is informational research, not legal advice — and it can fall out of date quickly.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.
A “no dedicated statewide law found” status does not settle those other utility, electrical, building, fire, property, or product-safety requirements.
Maryland plug-in solar FAQ
Is plug-in solar legal in Maryland?
Maryland is currently listed as: Law in effect. Maryland enacted plug-in-solar provisions through HB 1532, Chapter 353. The provisions take effect in 2026, with section-specific timing controlled by the chapter text. Always confirm current state law, local code, utility rules, and product certification before installing.
Do I need utility approval for plug-in solar in Maryland?
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 Maryland?
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 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.
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
- HB 1532, Utility RELIEF ActMaryland General Assembly; accessed 2026-09-01