Committee hears S.202 to allow plug‑in ‘balcony’ solar; bill would cap exports and exempt small systems from full interconnection

At a Natural Resources & Energy committee meeting, members reviewed S.202, a bill to permit portable plug‑in solar devices that can be connected to a building outlet and generate power for on‑site use while limiting exports to the grid.

Legislative counsel summarized the bill’s core definition, saying the measure would add a new definition of “portable solar energy generation device” and set “a maximum power output to the electric grid of not more than 1,200 watts.” Counsel said the bill would exempt such devices from the larger 248 certificate‑of‑public‑good process for generation facilities when used for on‑site consumption, but noted that devices that put power onto the grid typically require an interconnection agreement between the customer and the electric distribution utility.

Why it matters: Committee members and witnesses framed S.202 as a means to expand access to clean energy for renters, students and households that cannot install rooftop systems while attempting to avoid grid‑safety risks. Proponents said enabling legislation can sharply lower consumer costs by removing large “soft costs” such as permitting and professional installation.

BrightSaver co‑founder Cora…