Plug-in solar in New York
Bill active Checked November 10, 2026
New York's Legislature passed A9111-C, the "Solar Up Now NY Act," on May 28, 2026. It would exempt plug-in devices up to 1,200 watts from interconnection and net metering rules. As of November 10, 2026 the bill had not been delivered to the governor, so it is not law.
Bills
| Bill | Stage | Last action | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| A9111-C / S8512-C Solar Up Now NY Act (portable solar generation devices) | Passed the legislature; not yet sent to the governor | Passed Senate (substituted for S8512C); returned to Assembly (May 28, 2026) |
The rules
New York has no enacted plug-in solar law. There are no state rules to list; your utility's interconnection rules apply.
What's next
The bill must be delivered to Governor Hochul, who then has 10 days (excluding Sundays) to act, or 30 days after delivery if the Legislature has adjourned. If signed, it takes effect on the 90th day after it becomes law.
What could it save?
For an 800 W panel kit at New York's average residential price of 28.6¢/kWh (September 2025 – August 2026 (12 months)):
- Ideal tilt (20°, south)
- 988 kWh a year: about $195 typical (69% used at home), up to $283 best case (100%)
- Vertical railing (90°, south)
- 700 kWh a year: about $138 typical (69% used at home), up to $200 best case (100%)
"Typical" uses HTW Berlin's model for an 800 W system without a battery; exports are assumed to earn nothing. Solar data: NREL PVWatts for Albany (capital). Try your own numbers · Is it worth it? · Railing vs tilted
Price source: EIA residential average, September 2025 – August 2026 (12 months).
Questions
Is plug-in solar legal in New York?
New York has no plug-in solar law yet, though a bill is pending. Without one, small plug-in systems fall under your utility's own interconnection rules. Ask your utility before you connect anything.
Neighbouring states
- Connecticut: Law in effect
- Massachusetts: Bill active
- New Jersey: Law passed, not yet in effect
- Pennsylvania: Bill active
- Vermont: Law in effect
Related: is it worth it? · railing vs tilted panels · renters guide · all kits · Certification watch · how we verify
Sources
- New York State Assembly: A09111 (2025-2026) summary, actions and text (Legislature bill page; accessed November 10, 2026)
Research note: Bill text: 1,200-watt nameplate output cap; takes effect on the ninetieth day after it becomes law (section 5). The governor timing rule is from the New York Constitution, art. IV, sec. 7 (general knowledge, not separately sourced).
This page is general information, not legal or electrical advice. Laws change and utilities differ. Check the linked official sources, your lease or HOA rules, and your utility before you buy or install anything. Full disclaimer.