California will let renters and homeowners install small plug-in solar panels on balconies and patios without utility approval.

Governor Gavin Newsom signed SB 868, the Plug and Play Solar Act, on September 30. The law takes effect on January 1, 2027.

It makes California the tenth US state to authorize balcony solar. Residents can plug small systems directly into wall outlets and skip interconnection agreements.

Systems are capped at 1,200 watts per household. That is enough to run a refrigerator and small appliances. Utilities cannot demand advance approval or charge device fees.

Devices must meet electrical codes and carry UL certification. They must include protection to stop feeding power into the grid during outages.

The law’s author, state Senator Scott Wiener, said the panels will give renters “relief they desperately need on our outrageous energy bills.”

Kits on the market cost $300 to $2,200. Supporters say they can cover up to 20 percent of a small apartment’s power use.

The utility exemptions expire on January 1, 2030, giving the market four years to take off.