Sen. Grohoski champions new Maine law making affordable plug-in solar accessible to renters and homeowners

AUGUSTA — On Monday, April 6, LD 1730, sponsored by Sen. Nicole Grohoski, D-Ellsworth, was signed into law. As amended and newly titled, “An Act to Make Small Plug-in Solar Generation Devices Accessible for All Maine Residents to Address the Energy Affordability Crisis” makes it easier for Mainers to generate their own electricity wherever they live. A Climate to Thrive, an MDI-based nonprofit, collaborated with Sen. Grohoski and Rep. Gary Friedmann, D-Bar Harbor, to write and advocate for the legislation.

“This new law is not about large-scale grid transformation. It’s about allowing Mainers, whether they rent or own, to generate their own electricity where they live,” said Sen. Grohoski. “I have spoken with many folks in my district who are eager to purchase plug-in solar systems, and I believe this law provides the necessary framework to make it happen safely and fairly. Even better, the law reduces barriers to clean energy and storage for all Maine people, without shifting the cost of such a transition onto those who choose not to participate.”

LD 1730 accomplishes the following:

• Defines rigorous safety standards for plug-in solar devices.
• Removes barriers for renters to set up plug-in solar devices for their units.
• Protects consumers from extra utility fees and paperwork for using plug-in solar devices.

“Plug-in solar” typically refers to systems that consist of a solar panel with an inverter that connects directly into a standard 120-volt wall outlet. Safe, compliant systems are available for less than $1,000. Also, these systems do not use the Net Energy Billing (NEB) crediting mechanism. In May 2025, Utah passed the first plug-in solar legislation in the United States.

According to testimony from the Office of the Public Advocate, “We estimate that an 800W solar system with a battery could save the average Maine household something like $350 a year. That means that the system could pay for itself in 3-4 years. If system prices decline further, as they are likely to do in a competitive market for consumer goods, the return on investment period could be even shorter.”

In testimony in support of the bill, Carol Bennatti, who is a constituent from Orland, wrote: “As Maine residents face rising electric costs, we should be taking action to support energy efficiency and the ability of Maine residents to generate their own power. LD 1730, An Act to Make Small, Portable, Plug-In Solar Generation Devices Accessible for All Maine Residents to Address the Energy Affordability Crisis, is an important step that direction.”

As non-emergency legislation, LD 1730 will take effect 90 days after the Legislature adjourns.

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