Update appended
SACRAMENTO – A bill introduced Monday in the California Senate offers a practical, affordable and clean path to relief from historically high electricity prices that hurt middle- and working-class households.
Senate Bill 868 would eliminate red tape and set statewide safety standards for portable solar photovoltaic energy devices, often called “balcony solar” or “plug-in PV.”
Reducing these barriers would enable budget-conscious households to generate their own clean power and cut electricity costs with simple plug-and-play solar technologies that work for all households, including those with limited access to a roof.
The bill, also known as the Plug and Play Solar Act, is authored by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco). Once assigned, the bill will be considered by the Senate Energy, Utilities and Communications Committee later this spring.
California electricity rates have nearly doubled over the past decade, leaving the state with the nation’s second-highest energy prices. By expanding access to balcony solar, SB 868 offers yet another way for consumers to seek their own remedy. People at home can plug in devices that use the sun to power electric appliances such as air conditioners, refrigerators, lights and computers. At the same time, greater use of clean power through balcony solar will help California to meet its climate and clean energy goals.
“Balcony solar is so straightforward – it’s as simple as plugging in a toaster oven, and it can put immediate savings in people’s pockets,” said Bernadette Del Chiaro, senior vice president for California at the Environmental Working Group, which is sponsoring the legislation.
“SB 868 prohibits unnecessary red tape so more Californians can plug into the sun today,” she said.
Greater access to balcony solar
Balcony solar systems can attach to a railing or be propped up on a backyard patio and then can plug directly into a standard 120-volt outlet using an integrated microinverter. Some also include a battery.
The systems are small, typically between 400 and 1,200 watts. They’re portable, so they don’t require contractors or lengthy utility and government permits. Balcony solar is especially well suited for apartment dwellers and the 44% of California households who are renters.
The electricity they produce is used instantly inside a home, powering everyday essential appliances. This reduces consumers’ reliance on utilities like PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric.
With prices starting around $500 to $1,200, these systems can cover up to 20% of a household’s average electricity use, making them one of the most accessible clean energy options available.
If SB 868 becomes law, a new market for these solar technologies will emerge, creating economies of scale that will lead to further price reductions.
Balcony solar is a particularly powerful tool during hot summer months, when air conditioning demand pushes bills and grid stress to their highest levels. Many cash-strapped consumers face an increasingly dangerous decision: cool their home or afford other essentials, like food.
By generating electricity where and when demand peaks, balcony solar can lower household costs, reduce strain on the grid, and help prevent outages.
Less red tape, more safety
Balcony solar is already common in Europe, where millions of systems are installed. Germany alone has an estimated four million of them.
The U.S., including California, lags behind.
One key reason is outdated state rules that treat even the smallest plug-in systems like large power plants, triggering costly permits and complex interconnection requirements with the state’s monopoly utilities.
SB 868 addresses these barriers directly. The bill classifies qualifying portable solar devices as simple household appliances – like toaster ovens – rather than full-scale electricity generators. The bill also establishes clear, uniform safety standards.
Strong support from clean energy and consumer advocates
In addition to EWG, groups backing SB 868 include Bright Saver, the California Solar & Storage Association, Environment California, Solar Rights Alliance, the Climate Center and many others.
“Californians deserve affordable, clean energy options that operate where they live,” Del Chiaro said. “SB 868 would expand options for Californians who want to go solar, bringing more choice to consumers and more clean energy to the state.”
Editor's note: This release has been updated to reflect the bill's revised title.
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The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a nonprofit, non-partisan organization that empowers people to live healthier lives in a healthier environment. Through research, advocacy and unique education tools, EWG drives consumer choice and civic action.
