Sources last reviewed 2026-11-01
Content updated
New Jersey plug-in solar status
The key facts
- Bill or law
- S2368, A4836, P.L.2026, c.82
- Size limit
- 1,200 watts combined per service address or dwelling unit
- Signed
- 2026-09-01
- Effective date / scope
- Around March 1, 2027 (six months after enactment)
Timing and implementation
- The act takes effect six months after enactment. Around March 1, 2027 is an estimate; confirm the official implementation date before relying on a specific day. The utility exemption is not operative as of November 1, 2026.
The law creates a utility-interconnection exemption for qualifying portable solar devices with combined output up to 1,200 watts per service address or dwelling unit. Equipment, electrical-code, and mounting requirements continue to apply.
Tenants must provide written notice with device compliance documentation and the proposed location at least 14 days before placement or use. Reasonable placement restrictions may apply.
The narrow 400 W exception for provisions requiring wiring or panel alterations is not a general waiver of product certification. Signing does not make the future utility exemption available immediately.
Installation checklist for New Jersey
- Confirm the official operative date six months after the September 1, 2026 signing before relying on the new exemption.
- Check product certification, outage protection, electrical code, safe mounting, and the combined 1,200 W address or dwelling-unit limit.
- If renting, give written notice with compliance documents and proposed placement at least 14 days before placement or use; check reasonable placement restrictions.
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This page is informational research, not legal advice — and it can fall out of date quickly.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.
New Jersey plug-in solar FAQ
Is New Jersey still awaiting the governor?
No. The Garden State Balcony Solar Act was signed September 1, 2026 as P.L.2026, c.82. Its principal provisions start six months after enactment, around March 1, 2027; the utility exemption is not yet operative as of November 1, 2026.
What notice must tenants provide?
At least 14 days before placement or use, provide written notice including device compliance documentation and proposed location. Reasonable placement restrictions and applicable installation requirements still matter.
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.
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
- Governor's September 1, 2026 signing announcementGovernor of New Jersey; accessed 2026-11-01
- S2368 third reprint, sections 2–5New Jersey Legislature; accessed 2026-11-01