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Is plug-in solar legal in Maryland?
- Introduced
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Signed
- In effect (2026-07-01)
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.
- Install after the required notice (before you install); no approval or fee.
- Install up to 391 W yourself with no wiring changes or listing paperwork.
✕ Not yet / not allowed
- Get paid for power you export; size the kit to your daytime use.
- Avoid wiring-alteration and listing rules above 391 W.
- 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
Maryland's rule has been in force since July 1, 2026: one UL or NRTL-certified system up to 1,200 W per meter, residential only, on a standard outlet. You must notify your utility before installing and certify the safety features and capacity; there is no approval, fee or interconnection agreement. Units of 391 W or less are exempt from listing rules that would require wiring changes.
Before you plug in: Maryland checklist
- Keep the system at or under 1,200 W of inverter output; at or under 391 W you also avoid the wiring and listing rules that apply to bigger units.
- Buy a kit whose certification matches the law (UL / NRTL listed). Check the label, not the marketing copy.
- Tell your utility: Before you install. Mandatory BEFORE installation plus certification of safety features and maximum generating capacity; customer pays for automatic locking disconnect if required.
- 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 1532: Utility RELIEF Act (§ 7-321) |
|---|---|
| Signed | May 12, 2026 |
| Effective | July 1, 2026 |
| Max system size | 1,200 W |
| Certification | Certified by Underwriters Laboratory or an equivalent nationally recognized testing laboratory. |
| Utility notice / approval | Mandatory BEFORE installation plus certification of safety features and maximum generating capacity; customer pays for automatic locking disconnect if required. |
| Permit / electrician | <=391 W to standard outlet exempt from listing provisions requiring alterations to premises, wiring or panels. |
| Exported power | Not subject to 7-306 (NEM) or 7-306.1 (interconnection); no RPS eligibility or RECs; no export fee; no compensation mechanism. |
| Avg. electricity price | 21.41¢ per kWh |
- Sponsor: The Speaker; Dels. Korman, Fraser-Hidalgo, Allen, Behler, Foley, Guyton, Healey, Holmes, J. Long, Lewis, Odom, Stein, Ziegler.
- Outlet / circuit: standard electrical outlet.
- Utility liability: electric company not liable for any damage (7-321(D)(2)).
Legislative background
- BGE/Pepco stance not reported.
Savings preview: 800 W kit in Maryland
Adjust for your setup →≈ $185/year
Frequently asked questions
Is plug-in solar legal in Maryland?
Yes. Maryland has a plug-in solar law in force allowing systems up to 1,200 W (HB 1532).
Do I need a permit or electrician for plug-in solar in Maryland?
Not required by the law. The statute says: <=391 W to standard outlet exempt from listing provisions requiring alterations to premises, wiring or panels. A dedicated circuit is still a sensible safety practice.
Do I have to tell my utility in Maryland?
Before you install. Mandatory BEFORE installation plus certification of safety features and maximum generating capacity; customer pays for automatic locking disconnect if required.
What can an 800 W plug-in kit save in Maryland?
Roughly 864 kWh and about $185 per year at Maryland's average residential rate of 21.41¢/kWh, assuming a typical balcony or patio mount. See the calculator for your exact setup.