Sherrill Signs Balcony Solar Law to Expand Access to Clean Energy

Gov. Mikie Sherrill signed legislation giving New Jersey residents greater access to portable, plug-in solar panels that can lower electricity costs and expand renewable energy use.

The Garden State Balcony Solar Act (S-2368/A-4836) exempts qualifying solar devices of up to 1,200 watts from utility interconnection and metering requirements, including certain fees, approvals, and equipment mandates.

The devices, which typically include a microinverter and adapter, plug into standard 120-volt outlets and send electricity into a home’s existing electrical system.  The bill also limits the ability of landlords, homeowner associations, and similar entities to prohibit their use.   Municipalities may not ban the devices or require permits for them.

“Balcony solar is a practical, easy-to-use tool that can help families save money while allowing more people to participate in our clean energy future,” Sherrill said. “This bill cuts unnecessary red tape, expands access to affordable solar power, and proves that affordability and sustainability can go hand in hand.”

The legislation is intended to make solar power more accessible to renters, apartment residents, and homeowners who cannot install traditional rooftop systems.

“From day one, I’ve been laser-focused on driving down energy costs through an all-of-the-above approach,” Sherrill said. “That includes putting clean, affordable solar power that you can simply plug in directly into the hands of New Jerseyans.”

State Sen. John McKeon (D-West Orange), one of the bill’s sponsors, said the measure would broaden access to solar energy while supporting the state’s environmental goals.

“With its signing today, we are greatly expanding access to plug-in solar, especially for renters and households without access to a private rooftop,” McKeon said. “By embracing innovative solutions like balcony solar, we can help households save on their utility bills and ensure the benefits of clean energy are accessible to all.”

State Sen. Bob Smith (D-Piscataway), the chairman of the Senate Environment Committee, noted that “expanding access to solar energy requires us to think beyond traditional rooftop installations.”

“By reducing barriers in the installation process of portable solar generation, this legislation will allow more New Jersey residents to participate in the state’s transition to clean energy and save money in the process,” Smith stated.

Doug O’Malley, director of Environment New Jersey, called the law a major victory for clean energy.

“Plug-in solar is a simple concept — solar small enough to plug in but big enough to provide real environmental and bill benefits,” O’Malley said. “Now is the time to make it as easy as possible for all residents across New Jersey to go green by literally plugging into clean energy.”

The law is part of Sherrill’s broader energy agenda, which includes expanding community solar, accelerating new energy generation and promoting advanced grid technologies.