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Is plug-in solar legal in Delaware?
- Introduced
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Signed
- In effect
What this means for you
✓ What you can do
- Apply for interconnection like any small generator (Level 1 <=10 kW certified inverter), typical fee $1,515.
- Use portable panels with a power station, never connected to house wiring, with no permission at all.
- Install conventional rooftop or ground-mount solar through the standard interconnection process.
✕ Not yet / not allowed
- Plug a grid-tied kit into an outlet without an interconnection agreement; it can breach your service terms.
- Expect a permit or wiring exemption; none exists without a law.
- Count on SB 270 this year: Introduced 3/26/2026, Senate Environment, Energy & Transportation; no hearing; deferred to 2027.
What the rules say
Delaware's SB 270 (introduced Mar 26, 2026) would allow 800 W per meter with online registration; it has not passed.
Before you plug in: Delaware checklist
- The rule that applies is Delaware Public Service Commission (Delmarva); DEC/munis self-set within 26 Del. C. 1014's interconnection process: Delmarva Delaware Interconnection Standards (PSC Order 7984, 2011; IREC model).
- A plug-in kit falls in the smallest tier (Level 1 <=10 kW certified inverter). Not located (gap); Smyrna muni $1,515.
- Permits: State Fire Marshal adopts NEC; electrical permits/inspections required.
- Only consider kits with a UL 1741-listed inverter (UL 3700 preferred); a non-listed inverter will not be approved anywhere.
- What exports are worth: Full retail net metering <=25 kW residential.
- If approval is slow or costly, a portable panel and power station (never connected to house wiring) needs no permission.
- Watch SB 270: Introduced 3/26/2026, Senate Environment, Energy & Transportation; no hearing; deferred to 2027.
The rules in detail
Delaware has no statute specific to plug-in solar (the only bill so far is SB 270). Average residential electricity price: 18.48¢ per kWh (EIA, July 2026).
- Exported power: Bill: exempt unless customer seeks net metering.
Your utility's rules in Delaware
No utility in Delaware publishes a rule that specifically allows or bans outlet-connected generation, so the general interconnection agreement is what applies. Here is what the largest residential utilities say and require.
| Utility | Residential customers | Published position on plug-in kits |
|---|---|---|
| Delmarva Power | 301,950 | No specific statement; Level 1 = 'lab certified, inverter-based systems with a nameplate capacity of 10 kW or less'. source |
| Delaware Electric Cooperative | 104,839 | No specific statement. |
| City of Dover | 21,601 | No specific statement. |
Interconnection terms for a sub-1.2 kW system
| Regulator | Delaware Public Service Commission (Delmarva); DEC/munis self-set within 26 Del. C. 1014. |
|---|---|
| Governing rule | Delmarva Delaware Interconnection Standards (PSC Order 7984, 2011; IREC model). |
| Smallest tier | Level 1 <=10 kW certified inverter. |
| Application fee | Not located (gap); Smyrna muni $1,515. |
| Electrician / permit | State Fire Marshal adopts NEC; electrical permits/inspections required. |
| Export compensation | Full retail net metering <=25 kW residential. |
| Electrical code | 2023 NEC (eff. 1/1/2026 per Mike Holt). |
- Only US bill at an 800 W cap; would still require registration.
- No sales tax; Green Energy grant unavailable to DIY kits.
Plug-in solar bills in Delaware, 2025–2026
| Bill | Sponsor | Status | What it would do |
|---|---|---|---|
| SB 270 | Sen. Stephanie Hansen (SD10); Reps. Burns, Heffernan; cosponsors Cruce, Hoffner, Pinkney, Sokola, Lambert, Morrison, Romer | Introduced 3/26/2026, Senate Environment, Energy & Transportation; no hearing; deferred to 2027. | 800 W per-meter cap (lowest in US); exempt unless net metering; utility online registry by 1/15/2027; DESEU safety study by 1/1/2027. |
State incentives
- Green Energy Program: Delmarva $0.70/W to $6,000, DEC $0.35/W (participating contractor required).
- No sales tax.
Who is pushing for a law
- Bright Saver (no named DE group confirmed)
Savings preview: 800 W kit in Delaware
Adjust for your setup →≈ $160/year
Frequently asked questions
Is plug-in solar legal in Delaware?
Not yet. Delaware considered a plug-in solar bill (SB 270) that did not pass in 2026; a new version is expected. Until then, utility interconnection rules apply.
Do I need a permit or electrician for plug-in solar in Delaware?
Default rules apply. Check with your local building department before you plug in.
Do I have to tell my utility in Delaware?
Not fully settled. Bill: utility online registration by 2027-01-15; exempt from interconnection unless net metering sought
What can an 800 W plug-in kit save in Delaware?
Roughly 864 kWh and about $160 per year at Delaware's average residential rate of 18.48¢/kWh, assuming a typical balcony or patio mount. See the calculator for your exact setup.