Illinois State Sen. Rachel Ventura and Rep. Daniel Didech joined fellow general assembly members and clean energy advocates to launch a campaign to pass legislation enabling plug-in solar in Illinois. The Plug-In Illinois Act (SB 3104/HB 4524) would unlock access to solar power for Illinoisans who cannot install rooftop solar – like renters, apartment dwellers, or can’t afford the upfront cost – by removing regulatory barriers to small scale plug-in or “balcony” solar units.
Credit: Vote Solar
This legislation would allow consumers to buy a certified solar system and plug it into a standard wall outlet. The effort would make Illinois one of the first states in the nation to approve plug-in solar following Utah, which passed plug-in solar legislation with unanimous bipartisan support last year. Lawmakers in Pennsylvania, Minnesota, New York, Vermont and other states have introduced plug-in solar legislation as well.
“Today, we’re making clean energy more accessible and affordable while focusing on safety,” Ventura said. “Plug-in solar is designed with strong safety protections and modern technology that meets rigorous standards, while giving people a real way to lower their electricity bills. Illinois has long been a leader in expanding access to clean energy solutions, and plug-in solar is the next step in that progress.”
By updating regulations, Illinois can open the door to at-home solar for renters, condo owners and homeowners who have been left out of the clean energy transition. Renters can set up systems on balconies or patios without altering their building, and can take their systems with them when they move. Condo owners gain a personal, independent solution even without rooftop access. Homeowners with shaded or unsuitable roofs can still generate clean energy via their yards, patios or balconies.
When placed in a sunny area, the panels produce electricity that flows into the home’s wiring, powering appliances and reducing the amount of electricity pulled from the grid — lowering monthly bills and carbon emissions.
“For too long, solar has been limited to homeowners with the right kind of roof,” Didech said. “That leaves out renters, condo owners, and Illinois families who want to participate in the clean energy transition but don’t have a pathway to do so. Plug-in solar changes that. With this bill, we’re allowing more people to generate their own power, lower their bills, and be part of our clean energy future. No rooftop, no major installation, just a simple and practical solution that works for how many Illinoisans live.”
News item from Vote Solar
