This bill introduces regulations for "plug-in solar generation systems," which are defined as movable photovoltaic systems designed to offset a portion of a customer's onsite electric consumption. Each metered customer is allowed one such system with a maximum inverter output of 1,200 watts AC. The bill exempts compliant systems from utility approval, interconnection reviews, and related fees, provided they are certified to national safety standards and installed according to the state building code and manufacturer instructions. The building code review board is tasked with updating the state building code to accommodate these systems once recognized national standards are established.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that electric distribution utilities will not be liable for damages related to customer-installed plug-in solar generation systems. It mandates the Department of Energy to maintain consumer information on its website regarding these systems, including safety standards and potential impacts on electric billing. The bill also amends existing laws to include new requirements and exemptions for plug-in solar generation systems, ensuring that they align with standards set by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Underwriters Laboratory (UL), and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). The provisions of the bill will take effect on January 1, 2027, with certain sections contingent upon the establishment of nationally recognized standards for safe connections to electrical systems.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 362-A:1-a
As Amended by the Senate: 362-A:1-a, 362-A:9
As Amended by the House: 362-A:1-a, 362-A:9
Version adopted by both bodies: 362-A:1-a, 362-A:9
SB540 text: 362-A:1-a