New Jersey's governor signed the Garden State Balcony Solar Act on September 1, 2026. Both houses passed it with no votes against. This guide is as of October 2026. It is not legal advice, so check your utility's page. We could not read the final bill text, so some details below are from news reports.
Is balcony solar legal in New Jersey now?
It is signed but not in force yet. The governor's office confirms the signing on September 1, 2026. News reports say the law starts six months later, around March 1, 2027. We could not read the final text to confirm the exact date. Until it starts, the old utility connection rules apply. For other states, see which states allow balcony solar.
How many watts can I plug in in New Jersey?
Up to 1,200 watts. The governor's office says qualifying plug-in devices up to 1,200 W are exempt from utility connection and metering rules. They plug into a standard 120-volt outlet. News reports add that there is a combined 1,200 W limit per address, but we could not check that in the bill text.
Do I need to tell my utility in New Jersey?
You do not need approval. The governor's office says these devices are exempt from utility approvals, certain fees and equipment demands. Whether you must send a simple notice is not clear from the sources we could read. Check your utility's page when the law starts. Our savings guide can help you decide if it is worth the effort.
Can my landlord or HOA say no to balcony solar in New Jersey?
Not broadly. The governor's office says landlords and HOAs cannot ban these devices outright. Towns cannot ban them or ask for a permit. News reports say renters must give 14 days' written notice and that landlords can set reasonable rules on size and placement. We could not verify those details, so read the final text. See our renters guide.
Do I get paid for power I send to the grid in New Jersey?
Probably not. News reports say these devices are exempt from net metering, so extra power earns no credit. We could not confirm that in the bill text. Plan on savings only, and use the savings guide to estimate what you could cut from your bill.
What does a balcony solar kit need in New Jersey?
News reports say the kit must be listed or certified to UL 3700 or an equivalent standard. We could not check this against the enacted text, so treat it as likely, not certain. Look for a plug-in solar certification mark. See kits sold in the US for what makers say.
What can I do in New Jersey today?
Plan, but do not plug in yet. Read what balcony solar is. Check how much sun your balcony gets. If you rent, think about how you will ask your landlord. Wait for certified kits and for your utility to post its guidance. The start date is months away, so there is no rush.
The quick version
- The governor signed the law on September 1, 2026.
- News reports say it starts around March 1, 2027.
- The cap is 1,200 W, with no utility approval.
- Towns cannot ban it, and landlords and HOAs cannot ban it outright.