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Rep. Kathleen James pitches bill to allow plug-in 'balcony' solar without PUC certificate
Summary
Rep. Kathleen James told the House Energy and Infrastructure Committee H.598 would let Vermonters use portable 'plug-in' solar arrays (typically up to 1,200 watts) without a Public Utility Commission certificate of public good, while requiring safety certification and utility notification; the Senate is still taking testimony.
Representative Kathleen James, D‑Manchester, told the House Energy and Infrastructure Committee on Jan. 16 that H.598 would let Vermonters use portable "plug‑in" or "balcony" solar devices without obtaining a certificate of public good from the Public Utility Commission.
James said the devices — typically no larger than three solar panels and limited to about 1,200 watts — would have to be certified as safe by an approved national testing organization and the building must be grid‑connected. "If you buy one of these and plug it in, you don't have to get a certificate of public good from the PUC," she said, adding that users would need to notify their utility but not seek its permission. She told the committee the devices would not be eligible for net metering under current rules.
Why it matters: Sponsors say plug‑in systems broaden access to solar for renters and households without roof or ground‑mount options and can reduce energy bills. Committee members pressed on technical and safety details — including how the devices interact with building wiring and whether they can energize circuits during outages — and urged thorough testimony from technical experts.
Committee questions focused on safety and installation. A member noted that in many designs "the power never hits the grid" and that units can pair with batteries, while others pointed to ongoing Senate testimony about certification and whether an electrician would be required to install some units. James said the Senate, which has a companion bill and is taking testimony, had raised questions about Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification and installation requirements; she recommended waiting to take the bill "off the wall" until the Senate finishes adjustments.
Members also asked about landlords and multi‑unit buildings: if apartments are not individually metered, committee members said, ensuring the device's output does not affect the whole building can be technically complicated. The Climate Solutions Caucus was cited as planning to arrange a demonstration so committee members can inspect sample units when testimony resumes.
No formal vote was taken. James said the committee will solicit witnesses on safety, utility interaction and landlord concerns before proceeding.
Provenance: Topic introduced SEG 056; last related discussion SEG 341.
