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Is plug-in solar legal in Oregon?
Bill stalled (likely refiled 2027) HB 4080
- Introduced
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Signed
- In effect
Not yet. Oregon considered a plug-in solar bill (HB 4080) that did not pass in 2026; a new version is expected. Until then, utility interconnection rules apply.
Max system sizeNo capsmallest tier: Tier 1 <=25 kW
Electrician / permitPermit and inspectionutility rules apply
Tell the utility?Interconnection applicationtypical fee $0
CertificationUL 1741 inverterrequired by every utility
What this means for you
✓ What you can do
- Apply for interconnection like any small generator (Tier 1 <=25 kW), typical fee $0.
- 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 HB 4080 this year: House Climate, Energy & Environment; hearing Feb 2026; no work session; died 3/6/2026 (short session); 2027 reintroduction planned.
What the rules say
Oregon's HB 4080 failed in 2026; PGE/Pacific Power interconnection rules apply.
What happened in 2026. HB 4080: House Climate, Energy & Environment; hearing Feb 2026; no work session; died 3/6/2026 (short session); 2027 reintroduction planned.
Before you plug in: Oregon checklist
- The rule that applies is Oregon Public Utility Commission's interconnection process: OAR 860-039 (net metering) / OAR 860-082 (small generator).
- A plug-in kit falls in the smallest tier (Tier 1 <=25 kW). $0 for Tier 1 net metering (OAR 860-039-0030); <=$100 under 860-082.
- Permits: 2026 NEC (10/1/2026); BCD permits; homeowner wiring allowed.
- 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: Retail net metering <=25 kW.
- If approval is slow or costly, a portable panel and power station (never connected to house wiring) needs no permission.
- Watch HB 4080: House Climate, Energy & Environment; hearing Feb 2026; no work session; died 3/6/2026 (short session); 2027 reintroduction planned.
The rules in detail
Oregon has no statute specific to plug-in solar (the only bill so far is HB 4080). Average residential electricity price: 15.97¢ per kWh (EIA, July 2026).
Your utility's rules in Oregon
No utility in Oregon 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Portland General Electric | 828,857 | No specific statement (no testimony located). |
| PacifiCorp (Pacific Power) | 547,235 | No specific statement. |
| Eugene Water & Electric Board | 89,582 | No specific statement. |
Interconnection terms for a sub-1.2 kW system
| Regulator | Oregon Public Utility Commission. |
|---|---|
| Governing rule | OAR 860-039 (net metering) / OAR 860-082 (small generator). |
| Smallest tier | Tier 1 <=25 kW. |
| Application fee | $0 for Tier 1 net metering (OAR 860-039-0030); <=$100 under 860-082. |
| Electrician / permit | 2026 NEC (10/1/2026); BCD permits; homeowner wiring allowed. |
| Export compensation | Retail net metering <=25 kW. |
| Electrical code | 2026 NEC (Oregon Electrical Specialty Code, eff. 10/1/2026). |
In practice
- No Tier 1 fee and retail NEM already; barrier is technical requirements.
- Short session no carry-over; 2027 long session and 2026 NEC help.
Plug-in solar bills in Oregon, 2025–2026
| Bill | Sponsor | Status | What it would do |
|---|---|---|---|
| HB 4080 | Rep. Maxine Dexter per tracker (unverified) | House Climate, Energy & Environment; hearing Feb 2026; no work session; died 3/6/2026 (short session); 2027 reintroduction planned. | <=1,200 W; limits landlord/HOA restrictions; DCBS code update; opposition from electrician and firefighter groups. |
State incentives
- ODOE Solar + Storage Rebate (approved contractor).
- No sales tax; RETC expired.
Who is pushing for a law
- City of Portland BPS (Eric Engstrom)
- 350PDX (Cherice Bock)
- OSSIA
- Environment Oregon
- Bright Saver
Savings preview: 800 W kit in Oregon
Adjust for your setup →≈ $128/year
Frequently asked questions
Is plug-in solar legal in Oregon?
Not yet. Oregon considered a plug-in solar bill (HB 4080) 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 Oregon?
Default. Check with your local building department before you plug in.
Do I have to tell my utility in Oregon?
Not fully settled. Proposed: no extra fees for notification
What can an 800 W plug-in kit save in Oregon?
Roughly 800 kWh and about $128 per year at Oregon's average residential rate of 15.97¢/kWh, assuming a typical balcony or patio mount. See the calculator for your exact setup.