Small systems would provide Rhode Islanders less-expensive, easier entry into electricity generation
Plug-in solar (also called “balcony solar”) typically consists of one to four portable solar panels and is designed for simple self-installation by renters and homeowners alike. Plug-in solar panels can be placed on a balcony or patio or in a yard, then safely plugged into a standard wall outlet.
Once plugged in, the solar energy immediately flows through the
home to power appliances and lights, reducing the electricity that home must
draw from the electric grid and saving money on household electric bills.
Systems typically cost between $500 and $1,200.
The legislation (2026-S 2359, 2026-H 7269) defines portable solar devices and exempts
them from permitting and utility-agreement processes that are intended to
regulate much larger systems.
“Rhode Islanders need relief from high energy bills, and our state needs to reduce our reliance on energy from fossil fuels. Portable solar is an excellent tool to move the needle a bit for both those efforts,” said Representative Speakman (D-Dist. 68, Warren, Bristol). “Germany has over 4 million users of these systems, and their decade of experience has shown that they are safe, they become more affordable as more people adopt them, and they reduce the dependence on power plants and fossil fuels sourced from someplace else. Allowing their use here would have no public cost, while helping Rhode Islanders lower their electric bills and helping us reach our Act on Climate goals.”
Said Senator Valverde (D-Dist. 35, North Kingstown, East
Greenwich, South Kingstown), “Portable solar is essentially helping to
democratize energy generation, so more people can participate and have a bit
more control over their electric bills. You don’t have to be a homeowner, have
the perfect roof, make a huge investment or even have anything professionally
installed to use a portable solar system. These systems are an easy way to
enable more Rhode Islanders to get the financial and environmental benefits of
renewable energy generation, including the many who don’t have the money or the
opportunity for rooftop solar.”
Plug-in solar systems are safe, and an analysis prepared for the nonprofit solar provider
Bright Saver shows that they would have no net impact on the electric grid even
if 40% of households had 1200W systems – meaning the electricity produced by
these systems would be primarily consumed through household use, and would not
negatively impact electrical distribution infrastructure.
Utah became the first U.S. state to pass such legislation
last year, and similar bills are currently pending in 25 states.
Senator Valverde and Representative Speakman’s legislation
sets safety standards, including that portable solar systems meet electric
codes and be certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or a similar lab. It
requires that all systems include a feature to prevent the system from
energizing the building’s electrical system during a power outage. It also
protects the utilities from liability of damage or injury from the devices.
