Last reviewed 2026-09-01
New York plug-in solar status
The key facts
- Bill or law
- A9111C, S8512C
- Size limit
- 1200 watts
- Enacted
- Not enacted
- General effective date
- Not applicable or not verified
The bill defines a portable solar device as up to 1,200 watts connecting to a standard 120-volt outlet, and requires the device to be certified by a recognized testing laboratory and installed to state fire codes.
If signed, the law would take effect immediately.
Until it is signed, treat New York as pending rather than permission to install.
Before you buy in New York
This page is informational research, not legal advice — and it can fall out of date quickly.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 York plug-in solar FAQ
Is plug-in solar legal in New York?
New York is currently listed as: Passed legislature — awaiting governor. The SUNNY Act, A9111C/S8512C, passed both chambers of the New York Legislature and awaits gubernatorial action. 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 York?
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 York?
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 York
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
- S8512C official recordNew York State Senate; accessed 2026-09-01
- A9111 official recordNew York State Assembly; accessed 2026-09-01