Plug-in solar in Pennsylvania
Bill active Checked November 10, 2026
Pennsylvania House Bill 1971 ("Reducing Barriers to Plug-In Solar") would add portable solar generation systems to the state's utility code. It was referred to the House Energy Committee on October 28, 2025, and has not moved since.
Bills
| Bill | Stage | Last action | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| HB 1971 Portable solar generation systems (amends Title 66, Public Utilities) | In committee | Referred to Energy (October 28, 2025) |
The rules
Pennsylvania has no enacted plug-in solar law. There are no state rules to list; your utility's interconnection rules apply.
What's next
The 2025-2026 session ends November 30, 2026. A bill that has not passed by then dies and must be reintroduced.
What could it save?
For an 800 W panel kit at Pennsylvania's average residential price of 20.86¢/kWh (September 2025 – August 2026 (12 months)):
- Ideal tilt (20°, south)
- 1,028 kWh a year: about $148 typical (69% used at home), up to $214 best case (100%)
- Vertical railing (90°, south)
- 697 kWh a year: about $100 typical (69% used at home), up to $145 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 Harrisburg (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 Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania 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
- Delaware: Status not yet confirmed
- Maryland: Law in effect
- New Jersey: Law passed, not yet in effect
- New York: Bill active
- Ohio: Status not yet confirmed
- West Virginia: Bill failed or died
Related: is it worth it? · railing vs tilted panels · renters guide · all kits · Certification watch · how we verify
Sources
- Pennsylvania General Assembly: HB 1971 (2025-2026) bill page (Legislature bill page; accessed November 10, 2026)
Research note: Session end date is 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.