California Legislature Passes Bill to Facilitate Balcony Solar Installations
The California Legislature has passed SB 868, a bill intended to simplify the installation of small solar systems on balconies, which could help reduce energy costs for millions of residents. The bill, approved on August 26, 2026, exempts these systems from state interconnection requirements until January 1, 2030.
SB 868 defines a 'portable solar generation device' as a system with an aggregated AC output of no more than 1,200 watts per dwelling. These devices must plug into a standard electrical outlet, comply with both California and National Electrical Codes, and include a safety feature to prevent backfeeding during power outages.
The legislation targets renters, condominium residents, and homes unsuitable for rooftop solar installations, offering a potential reduction in electricity costs by up to $450 annually per household. This comes as a relief amid a 40% increase in PG&E electricity rates from 2022 to 2025, with California ranking as the second-highest in electricity costs in the United States.
Environmental groups, including the Environmental Working Group, have supported the bill, highlighting its affordability and accessibility for renters. The Solar Rights Alliance and California Solar & Storage Association have endorsed it as a practical addition to California's clean energy initiatives.