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Is plug-in solar legal in Washington?
Bill stalled (likely refiled 2027) SB 6050 (+ HB 2296)
- Introduced
- Passed one chamber
- Passed both chambers
- Signed
- In effect
Not yet. Washington considered a plug-in solar bill (SB 6050 (+ HB 2296)) 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 2296 (enacted Ch. 136, 2026) / SB 6050 this year: HB 2296 signed 3/23/2026 with plug-in language stripped (meter-mounted devices only); SB 6050 died in committee 2/26/2026; start over in 2027.
What the rules say
Washington's plug-in provision was stripped from its 2026 energy bill; PSE/Seattle City Light interconnection rules apply.
What happened in 2026. HB 2296 (enacted Ch. 136, 2026) / SB 6050: HB 2296 signed 3/23/2026 with plug-in language stripped (meter-mounted devices only); SB 6050 died in committee 2/26/2026; start over in 2027.
Before you plug in: Washington checklist
- The rule that applies is Washington UTC (IOUs); consumer-owned utilities self-regulate's interconnection process: WAC 480-108; RCW 80.60 net metering.
- A plug-in kit falls in the smallest tier (Tier 1 <=25 kW). $0-$85 depending on utility (Snohomish $85; Everett $0).
- Permits: L&I electrical permit; 2023 NEC now, 2026 NEC 12/31/2026.
- 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 <=100 kW until 6/30/2029 or 4% cap.
- If approval is slow or costly, a portable panel and power station (never connected to house wiring) needs no permission.
- Watch HB 2296 (enacted Ch. 136, 2026) / SB 6050: HB 2296 signed 3/23/2026 with plug-in language stripped (meter-mounted devices only); SB 6050 died in committee 2/26/2026; start over in 2027.
The rules in detail
Washington has no statute specific to plug-in solar (the only bill so far is SB 6050 (+ HB 2296)). Average residential electricity price: 14.71¢ per kWh (EIA, July 2026).
- Sponsor: Sen. Marko Liias.
- Utilities: Plug-in exemption removed from broader energy bill before passage.
Your utility's rules in Washington
No utility in Washington 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Puget Sound Energy | 1,091,599 | No specific statement. source |
| Seattle City Light | 459,964 | No specific statement. |
| Snohomish County PUD | 346,532 | No specific statement; $85 processing fee, up to 2 weeks. source |
| Avista / Clark PUD / Tacoma Power | 645,889 | No specific statement. |
Interconnection terms for a sub-1.2 kW system
| Regulator | Washington UTC (IOUs); consumer-owned utilities self-regulate. |
|---|---|
| Governing rule | WAC 480-108; RCW 80.60 net metering. |
| Smallest tier | Tier 1 <=25 kW. |
| Application fee | $0-$85 depending on utility (Snohomish $85; Everett $0). |
| Electrician / permit | L&I electrical permit; 2023 NEC now, 2026 NEC 12/31/2026. |
| Export compensation | Retail net metering <=100 kW until 6/30/2029 or 4% cap. |
| Electrical code | 2023 NEC (4/1/2024); 2026 NEC eff. 12/31/2026. |
In practice
- 2026 law chose utility-preferred meter-collar devices over plug-in.
- Sales-tax exemption may apply to kits; 60% on public utilities.
Plug-in solar bills in Washington, 2025–2026
| Bill | Sponsor | Status | What it would do |
|---|---|---|---|
| HB 2296 (enacted Ch. 136, 2026) / SB 6050 | HB 2296 Reps. Hall, Callan, Reed, Leavitt, Ramel (per tracker); SB 6050 Senate | HB 2296 signed 3/23/2026 with plug-in language stripped (meter-mounted devices only); SB 6050 died in committee 2/26/2026; start over in 2027. | Utility-driven DER bill displaced outlet-connected approach. |
State incentives
- Sales-tax exemption for solar <=100 kW through 2029 (RCW 82.08.962).
- No credit.
Who is pushing for a law
- Third Act Washington
- Solar Washington
- Environment Washington
- Bright Saver
Savings preview: 800 W kit in Washington
Adjust for your setup →≈ $108/year
Frequently asked questions
Is plug-in solar legal in Washington?
Not yet. Washington considered a plug-in solar bill (SB 6050 (+ HB 2296)) 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 Washington?
Default. Check with your local building department before you plug in.
Do I have to tell my utility in Washington?
Default. Plugging in a grid-tied kit without following this can breach your service agreement.
What can an 800 W plug-in kit save in Washington?
Roughly 736 kWh and about $108 per year at Washington's average residential rate of 14.71¢/kWh, assuming a typical balcony or patio mount. See the calculator for your exact setup.