WattRankWattRank

Plug-In Solar News

Law changes, product launches and market updates — sourced, dated, and linked to the evergreen guidance they affect.

News

US Plug-In Solar Law: Where All 50 States Stand in July 2026

As of July 2026, four states have effective plug-in solar frameworks (Utah, Maine, Maryland, Vermont), four more are signed but not yet in force (Colorado, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Virginia), and 18 states have bills pending. Here is the mid-year state of play and what to watch through the fall.

News

German Lab Test Fails 3 of 5 Balcony Solar Batteries on Interference

Stiftung Warentest, Germany's consumer-testing institute, published laboratory results for balcony solar storage systems: three of five tested products emitted electromagnetic interference above permitted limits. Anker's Solarbank line took the only satisfactory grade; EcoFlow's Stream Ultra was rated poor (4.7). The findings moved several WattRank scores.

News

Nonprofit Bright Saver Takes At-Cost Plug-In Solar Kits Nationwide

Bright Saver, a California nonprofit, is now taking nationwide pre-orders for its at-cost plug-in solar kits: members pay $285.30 for a 180 W panel-and-microinverter kit that lists at $499 for non-members, with a $29 annual membership. It is the lowest-priced legitimate entry point in the US market — with real caveats on coverage and scale.

News

UK Plug-In Solar: Consultation Closes, Commencement Still Unset

The UK government's consultation on legalizing sub-800 W plug-in solar — launched by DESNZ on 16 June 2026 — has closed for responses. The proposed route works through amendments to G98 and BS 7671 plus an interim product specification. Until final regulations and a commencement date land, socket connection remains not verified in force.