Why is Colorado's limit 1,920 W?

The law counts the power supplied to the grid, and it sets 1,920 W. Other states use 1,200 W. The law itself does not say why.

When does the full Colorado law start?

The law took effect August 12, 2026. Several parts start January 1, 2027, including renter and HOA protections and the sales ban on unlisted large devices.

Can an HOA ban balcony solar in Colorado?

From January 1, 2027, an HOA cannot unreasonably prohibit it. It can still set reasonable rules, such as notice and safety steps.

Does Colorado require UL 3700?

The law says "UL labeled and listed." It does not name UL 3700. News reports link the two, but we could not confirm it in the law.

Do I need a permit in Colorado?

The law bars utility approval and fees. Installs must still meet fire and local building safety codes.

Is Balcony Solar Legal in Colorado? (2026)

Colorado allows more than other states: up to 1,920 W. Some parts start in 2027.

Colorado signed its plug-in solar law on May 7, 2026. It has a higher cap than other states. This guide is as of October 2026. It is not legal advice, so check your utility's page before you buy.

Is balcony solar legal in Colorado now?

Yes. HB26-1007 took effect on August 12, 2026. But some parts start later, on January 1, 2027. These include the ban on selling unlisted larger devices and the rules for landlords and HOAs. For other states, see which states allow balcony solar.

How many watts can I plug in in Colorado?

Up to 1,920 watts supplied to the grid. That is more than the 1,200 W cap in most other states. You get one system per address. It must be labeled and listed by a national testing lab. It must not energize the grid in a power cut. Only one device may plug into each wall outlet.

Do I need to tell my utility in Colorado?

Maybe. The utility cannot ask for approval or fees. It cannot ask for gear beyond the device's own listing. But it may ask you to tell it that the device is there and how big it is, in kilowatts. Check your utility's page. The law also tells the state utility regulator to update its rules on meter-collar adapters by December 31, 2026.

Can my landlord or HOA say no to balcony solar in Colorado?

From January 1, 2027, they cannot unreasonably say no. Covenants that do so are void. The device counts as an energy-saving measure under HOA law, even on a balcony or patio. But owners can set reasonable rules, like prior notice, fire safety and location. Until 2027, ask first. See our renters guide.

Do I get paid for power I send to the grid in Colorado?

The law does not set any payment for extra power. We did not find how the utility would treat it, so do not count on credits. Plan on savings from using the power at home. Our savings guide shows how to estimate that. A higher cap does not mean more savings unless your home can use the power.

What does a balcony solar kit need in Colorado?

It must be labeled and listed by a national testing lab. From January 1, 2027, devices over 391 watts that are not UL labeled and listed cannot be sold, leased or rented in the state. News reports tie this to the UL 3700 standard, but the law does not name it. News reports also say certified kits are not widely available yet. See kits sold in the US.

What can I do in Colorado today?

Homeowners can plug in a listed system of up to 1,920 W now, with no utility approval. First, read what balcony solar is. Check your sun. Look for a listed kit, since many are not. Follow fire and building codes. Renters should wait for 2027 protections, or ask their landlord now.

Sunny says

Sunny says: bigger is not always better. One outlet can only take so much, and the law lets only one device plug into each outlet.

The quick version

HB26-1007 has been in force since August 12, 2026.
The cap is 1,920 W, one system per address.
No utility approval or fees. Your utility may ask for notice.
Landlord and HOA protections start January 1, 2027.