Welcome to our explainer series, taking important topics and going deeper!
What is happening?
Signed into law on September 1, 2026, the Garden State Balcony Solar Act (S2368/A4836)1 expands access to small solar systems to help renters and homeowners lower their electricity bills. It takes effect on March 1, 2027.2
What is plug-in solar?
Balcony solar, also called plug-in solar, uses small, portable panels you can place or mount on a balcony, patio, or other sunny outdoor space. The panels connect to a home’s electrical system through a standard 120-volt outlet.3
How does it work?
Plug-in solar panels convert sunlight into direct-current (DC) electricity. A microinverter converts it into alternating current (AC) electricity and feeds it into your home’s wiring through an outlet. Household appliances and devices plugged into your outlets use that solar power while the panels are producing electricity, drawing additional electricity they need from the grid.
What are the benefits?
Accessibility and convenience.
Plug-in solar can fit on any stable flat surface. It’s perfect for those without rooftop access, like renters, homeowners whose roofs aren’t suitable or too shaded for traditional solar panels, or those who aren’t ready to make the jump to install rooftop solar. Setup can take 1-2 hours and does not require permits, a contractor, or an electrician.
Lower electricity bills.
Plug-in solar users can save between $300-600 in electricity per year, which generally covers the electricity demand from always-on appliances, like refrigerators, or lights. The average 400–800 watt system costs $500–$1,500, which can pay off between two and five years. Additionally, New Jersey offers an exemption from the typical 6.625% sales tax rate for any solar panel purchases.4
Reduced carbon footprint.
Natural gas generated nearly half of New Jersey’s electricity in 2024.5 By supplying clean electricity where it is used, balcony solar can reduce demand for fossil-fuel generation, helping cut greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. The more electricity the panels produce over their useful life, the greater their environmental benefit.
Why does it matter for Princeton?
Energy use in buildings is Princeton’s largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. With 4,151 renter-occupied households in Princeton, according to 2025 Census data,6 plug-in solar is a good solution for renters to lower their electricity bills while helping the town reduce emissions.
What should I know before getting started?
- Landlords and Homeowners Associations (HOAs) cannot impose blanket bans. Landlords and homeowners associations can’t ban plug-in solar units outright, though they can set “reasonable restrictions” regarding safety.
- Renters must give advance notice. Notify your landlord or housing association in writing at least 14 days before placement or use. Include the proposed location and documentation that the device meets the law’s requirements.
- The power limit is 1,200 watts. This applies to the combined output of devices at one service address, or per dwelling unit in multifamily housing.
- Choose certified equipment. Devices must be listed or certified to UL 3700 or comparable safety standards.
- Electrical work may have separate requirements. Municipal permits are not required for the device itself, but building modifications or electrical work may require permits or inspections.8
Want to learn more?
Our website has more information on reducing emissions, including an explainer on Community Solar. If there are topics you’d like to know more about, please email info@sustainableprinceton.org.
- https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2026/A4836 ↩︎
- https://www.nj.gov/governor/news/2026/20260901a.shtml ↩︎
- https://pluginsolarusa.com/how-it-works ↩︎
- https://www.nj.com/politics/2026/09/nj-just-made-it-easier-for-renters-to-slash-their-energy-bills-with-plug-in-solar-panels.html ↩︎
- https://www.eia.gov/states/NJ/overview ↩︎
- https://data.census.gov/all?q=new+jersey+renter+occupied+units ↩︎
- https://www.sustainableprinceton.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/princeton-climate-action-plan-report.pdf ↩︎
- https://a1solarstore.com/blog/new-jersey-just-legalized-balcony-solar-heres-what-youre-actually-allowed-to-plug-in.html ↩︎
