Why New Jersey's balcony solar bill is a huge deal for renters
4 hours ago
- #Renter Rights
- #Balcony Solar
- #Energy Affordability
- New Jersey passed a bill allowing small plug-in solar installations, making it the tenth state to do so.
- The bill includes protections for renters by prohibiting landlords and homeowners' associations from blocking installations.
- Balcony solar panels are low-wattage systems that plug into regular outlets, reducing electricity bills at a lower upfront cost than rooftop solar.
- Similar laws have been adopted in Colorado and Virginia, with Utah being the first state to pass such legislation.
- Around 30 other state legislatures are considering balcony solar bills driven by bipartisan support and frustration over rising energy costs.
- In Germany, over 1.2 million balcony solar systems are installed, showing the potential for widespread adoption.
- Safety concerns from utilities and landlords exist, but no incidents have been reported in Germany according to research.
- UL Solutions is testing plug-in solar panels for certification, though the timeline remains uncertain.