Between 2024 and 2026, a wave of state laws quietly rewrote the rules for renters and small-scale solar. What passed, what it means, and what’s still coming.
For most of solar’s history, the rules were simple: if you didn’t own your roof, you were out. Plug-in solar existed, but utilities could — and often did — prohibit it. Landlords could say no. HOAs could block it. Nobody was obligated to let you generate your own power.
That’s changing. Five states have now passed laws that specifically protect plug-in solar users, with more on the way. Here’s what actually happened.
The five states that signed laws
Utah — signed March 2024
Utah was the first state to explicitly protect plug-in solar at the legislative level. The law establishes a clear right for renters to install small-scale solar systems without landlord approval, as long as the system meets safety standards. Utilities are required to allow connection.
Maine — signed April 2024
Maine’s law focuses on landlord-tenant dynamics. Landlords cannot prohibit plug-in solar installations on balconies or patios. Tenants must notify (not ask permission from) their landlord in writing, and the system must meet certain wattage limits.
Virginia — signed July 2024
Virginia amended its existing solar access law to include plug-in systems. The key addition: utilities cannot charge fees or impose barriers specifically for plug-in solar. Any landlord restrictions must be in writing in the lease to be enforceable — a lease that’s silent on solar means you’re free to install.
Colorado — signed May 2024
Colorado’s law is notable because it applies to HOAs as well as landlords. Both are prohibited from banning plug-in solar outright. HOAs can set reasonable aesthetic requirements but cannot say no categorically.
Maryland — signed May 2025
Maryland came in with one of the clearest laws yet: plug-in solar systems are explicitly defined as an allowable appliance under tenant rights law. Installing one is legally equivalent to installing a window air conditioner. No landlord approval needed, no utility permission required.
If you’re in one of these five states: you have legal protection to install a plug-in solar panel without your landlord’s permission (Maine and Virginia require written notification). Most cap systems at 1,200W–2,400W, which covers 2–4 standard panels.
What’s coming next
Connecticut and New Hampshire both passed legislation through their state legislatures as of spring 2026, awaiting governor signatures. Both bills mirror Maryland’s “appliance” framing.
New York passed a plug-in solar access bill through the state legislature in June 2026 — a significant move given the size of the New York renter population.
California already has strong solar access protections. A bill expanding these to explicitly cover plug-in solar passed committee in early 2026 and is expected to reach a floor vote by fall.
What these laws don’t do
They don’t force utilities to offer net metering for plug-in systems. They don’t cover interior apartment units with no outdoor space. They don’t override lease clauses in place before the law passed in some states. And they don’t apply to federally subsidized housing.
If you’re not in one of these states
In most other states, the picture is blurrier. Some utilities are permissive. Some landlords don’t care. But you don’t have a legal backstop if someone objects.
The practical reality: millions of Americans are running plug-in solar panels without issue in states with no specific law. But if your lease prohibits modifications or your HOA is active, check before you buy.
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