A bill moving through the Illinois Senate would make solar power more accessible to renters and others who face barriers to rooftop installation by allowing small, plug-in solar panel systems to be connected directly to standard wall outlets.
The panels could be set up on a balcony, porch, yard, or patio, offering a low-cost alternative to traditional rooftop solar.
Under current Illinois law, residents are required to obtain an interconnection agreement before using plug-in solar systems. The bill would eliminate that requirement, along with the need for electricity provider approval, installation fees, or additional equipment, with users only required to notify their provider within 30 days of installation.
“Plug-in solar is exactly what it sounds like: small, low-cost solar panels that plug directly into a standard outlet and help offset the energy use,” said Sen. Rachel Ventura, D-Joliet, who is the lead sponsor of the bill. “No expensive installation, no major construction, no waiting months for approval.”
According to Capitol News Illinois, the legislation would also prohibit landlords and homeowners’ associations from banning or unreasonably restricting plug-in solar systems. The exemptions primarily apply to systems with an output of less than 392 watts, though systems up to 1,200 watts would be permitted under additional regulations.
Plug-in solar systems typically include batteries, allowing users to store excess energy for later use and reduce reliance on grid power throughout the day. The systems also include built-in safety protections such as automatic shutoffs in the event of a power outage.
The bill passed the Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee on March 12 and is currently awaiting an amendment to address concerns from utilities and labor unions before receiving a full Senate vote.
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