Plug-In Solar
GLREA believes that everyone deserves access to clean, safe, and affordable energy, and we acknowledge that there are many barriers preventing equitable access to rooftop solar energy systems. We are advocating for Plug-In Solar (also known as Balcony Solar) as a solution to expand solar access and utility bill savings to more communities.
Plug In, Power Up Michigan
image source: ecori.org
What is Plug-In Solar?
This technology consists of a small solar unit that can plug directly into the electrical system of your house or apartment. It includes a couple solar panels and a microinverter, and can hang off a balcony, outside a window, or simply be propped up outside your home. This has become very popular in Europe over the past few years, and is gradually spreading to the US.
Energy Justice
Over 70% of Americans are unable to obtain rooftop solar due to a variety of factors - such as not being able to afford the high upfront cost, being a renter, or having an unsuitable or shared roof. Plug-In Solar broadens access and allows more people to recieve the benefits of solar energy, including reduced utility bills, increased resilience, cutting CO2 emissions, and participating in the just energy transition.
Additional Resources
Enabling legislation is needed to make Plug-In Solar a reality.
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As of June 2026, 9 states across the US have passed legislation allowing solar systems under a certain size to be exempt from utility interconnection processes, which facilitates the adoption of these Plug-In Solar units across communities. In Michigan, House Bill 5764 would accomplish this.
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GLREA is building a coalition of renewable energy advocates to help bring Plug-In Solar to Michigan!
If you are interested in getting involved, contact Jfreeman13@comcast.net