Last reviewed 2026-09-01

New Jersey plug-in solar status

Awaiting governorPassed both houses — awaiting governor
Where New Jersey stands: New Jersey's legislature unanimously passed the Garden State Balcony Solar Act (S2368/A4836) on June 30, 2026. As of this review it awaits Governor Mikie Sherrill's signature, so it is not yet law.

The key facts

Bill or law
S2368, A4836
Size limit
1200 watts
Enacted
Not enacted
General effective date
Not applicable or not verified

The bill would create a category for portable solar devices up to 1,200 watts and exempt qualifying systems from the utility interconnection process.

If signed, the law would take effect about six months after enactment.

Until the governor signs and the law takes effect, treat this as pending — not as permission to install.

Before you buy in New Jersey

This page is informational research, not legal advice — and it can fall out of date quickly.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

New Jersey plug-in solar FAQ

Is plug-in solar legal in New Jersey?

New Jersey is currently listed as: Passed both houses — awaiting governor. New Jersey's legislature unanimously passed the Garden State Balcony Solar Act (S2368/A4836) on June 30, 2026. As of this review it awaits Governor Mikie Sherrill's signature, so 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 New Jersey?

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 New Jersey?

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 New Jersey

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