US Bill Proposes Nationwide Plug-In Solar Adoption With $1,000 Rebates and Simplified Regulations

A bill proposing nationwide adoption of plug-in solar systems has been introduced in the United States House of Representatives on October 19, 2026. The legislation, known as the “Socket Full of Sunshine Act” or HR 10851, aims to remove regulatory barriers and simplify the use of small, portable solar power systems by residential consumers across the country.

The bill proposes allowing plug-in solar systems with a capacity of up to 1.2 kW without requiring utility approval, interconnection permissions, insurance fees or operating fees. These systems typically consist of one or more solar modules connected to a microinverter that plugs directly into a standard AC outlet.

The proposed legislation would amend a section of the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (PURPA). It would require state utility regulators to begin preparations for implementing plug-in solar regulations within one year of the bill’s passage and establish a standard for these systems within two years.

The bill also proposes a grant programme through the US Department of Energy to support states in providing rebates to low- and middle-income households purchasing plug-in solar systems. Under the proposed programme, eligible rebates would be capped at $1,000 per system. To qualify, at least 55% of the purchased system’s components would need to originate from the United States.

Another provision of the bill focuses on protecting renters’ access to plug-in solar technology. It proposes preventing landlords from prohibiting tenants from purchasing and using these systems, subject to certain exceptions related to spacing limitations.

Additionally, the legislation proposes establishing consumer protection measures through the Environmental Protection Agency. These would include a standard methodology for estimating electricity bill savings from plug-in solar installations and the development of consumer safety standards for the products.

The introduction of HR 10851 follows legislative efforts in several US states since late 2025 to permit consumer-level use of plug-in solar devices. If enacted, the bill would establish a nationwide framework for these systems, including regulatory standards, consumer protections and financial assistance for eligible households.