California Governor Signed Bill for Plug-in Solar Systems
Senate Bill 868 allows residents to use small-scale solar power without securing utility interconnection agreements.
Updated on Oct. 10, 2026 in Utilities
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Governor Gavin Newsom has signed Senate Bill 868, a new law that simplifies the installation of small plug-in solar systems. The legislation aims to increase access to solar energy for renters and apartment residents throughout California.
Why it matters
The law removes the requirement for utility company approval, making it easier for residents to adopt solar energy without complex agreements. This initiative is designed to expand renewable energy options to those who do not own traditional home solar setups.
Qualifying plug-in solar systems are limited to a maximum combined AC output of 1,200 watts per dwelling. The legislation passed with strong support, including a 73-0 vote in the California Assembly and a 36-4 final Senate vote.
The players
Gavin Newsom
Gavin Newsom is the Governor of California who signed Senate Bill 868 into law.
The details
Consumers can connect these portable photovoltaic devices to home electrical systems using a standard receptacle. To ensure safety, the law requires all systems to include a feature that prevents backfeed during power outages.
Timeline
May 19, 2026: The State Senate passed the bill.
Aug. 25, 2026: The Assembly passed the bill.
Aug. 26, 2026: The Senate approved final bill amendments.
Sept. 30, 2026: Governor Gavin Newsom signed the bill into law.
Jan. 1, 2027: The law takes effect.
Market Landscape
This legislation formalizes the status of plug-in solar devices under Chapter 985 of the Statutes of 2026. By removing utility hurdles, the state is shifting the market toward decentralized, consumer-installable energy solutions that compete with traditional utility-controlled solar programs.
Renters and apartment dwellers will gain the ability to install solar systems using standard wall outlets without utility interconnection agreements. However, residents must ensure their purchased equipment meets safety standards to prevent power backfeed issues.
The takeaway
This law creates a new path for energy independence for those previously excluded from solar adoption. Consumers should wait for the 2027 market launch to ensure they purchase devices that comply with the new safety and output regulations.
What happens next
California will prohibit the sale of non-compliant portable photovoltaic devices starting Jan. 1, 2030, and the law itself expires on that date.
Further reading
Learn more about the evolving power grid in California Utilities.
Live Poll
Do you support allowing residents to connect small plug-in solar systems without utility company permission?
