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Is plug-in solar legal in Connecticut?
- Introduced
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Signed
- In effect (2026-10-01)
What this means for you
✓ What you can do
- Plug a certified kit of up to 1,200 W into a standard outlet without a utility interconnection agreement.
- Skip utility paperwork entirely; no application, fee or approval.
✕ Not yet / not allowed
- Get paid for power you export; size the kit to your daytime use.
- Use an uncertified marketplace inverter; it is outside the law and unsafe.
- Run more than one system per address or meter under the exemption.
- Override a lease or HOA covenant; the law does not address landlords.
What the rules say
Connecticut's provisions took effect October 1, 2026: one device up to 1,200 W behind the meter, plugged into a standard 120 V outlet and not permanently affixed, certified by UL or an equivalent lab to UL 1741, the NEC and IEEE 1547. No utility notice or interconnection agreement is needed. Building, fire and local codes still apply, and the device must carry a warning that exports may be billed as usage on some meters.
Before you plug in: Connecticut checklist
- Keep the system at or under 1,200 W of inverter output.
- Buy a kit whose certification matches the law (UL / NRTL listed). Check the label, not the marketing copy.
- No utility notice or approval is needed. Keep the receipt and certification in case your utility asks.
- Renting or in an HOA? The law does not override your lease or covenants, so get written permission first.
- Plug into a wall outlet, never an extension cord or power strip, and keep shared-circuit kits under about 400 W.
The rules in detail
| Law | HB 5340: Public Act 26-127, §§ 9–10 |
|---|---|
| Signed | June 4, 2026 |
| Effective | October 1, 2026 |
| Max system size | 1,200 W |
| Certification | UL or equivalent NRTL; UL 1741; NEC (NFPA-70); IEEE 1547; State Building Code; anti-islanding; consumer warning on export billing. |
| Utility notice / approval | None. |
| Permit / electrician | No exemption from State Building Code, Fire Safety Code, Fire Prevention Code or local ordinances. |
| Exported power | Exempt from PURA interconnection-agreement requirements; exports billed as usage unless meter allows net metering (warning label). |
| Avg. electricity price | 24.16¢ per kWh |
- Sponsor: Co-sponsor Rep. Jamie Foster (lead not identified).
- Outlet / circuit: standard 120 V AC outlet located behind the customer's meter; not permanently affixed.
- Utility liability: EDC not liable (sec. 9(c)(2)).
Legislative background
- Eversource/UI stance not reported.
Savings preview: 800 W kit in Connecticut
Adjust for your setup →≈ $201/year
Incentives in Connecticut
- CT solar sales-tax exemption (unverified for kits); 25D expired
Frequently asked questions
Is plug-in solar legal in Connecticut?
Yes. Connecticut has a plug-in solar law in force allowing systems up to 1,200 W (HB 5340).
Do I need a permit or electrician for plug-in solar in Connecticut?
Not required by the law. The statute says: No exemption from State Building Code, Fire Safety Code, Fire Prevention Code or local ordinances. A dedicated circuit is still a sensible safety practice.
Do I have to tell my utility in Connecticut?
No. None.
What can an 800 W plug-in kit save in Connecticut?
Roughly 832 kWh and about $201 per year at Connecticut's average residential rate of 24.16¢/kWh, assuming a typical balcony or patio mount. See the calculator for your exact setup.