BILL NUMBER: S8512
SPONSOR: KRUEGER
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the public service law, in relation to portable solar
generation devices
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
The SUNNY Act aims to remove regulatory barriers preventing the use of
small plug-in solar devices in residential and commercial buildings,
creating a new category for portable plug-in solar generation devices
for outside use. These devices expand equitable access for New Yorkers
to participate in the solar economy, particularly benefiting those who
may be renters or have the ability to install rooftop systems.
 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
Section 1: Names the bill the Solar Up Now NY Act
Section 2: Amends Section 66-j of the Public Service Law. Defines "port-
able solar generation device," and exempts such device from the defi-
nition of "solar electric generating equipment." Additionally, limits
such device to supplying a maximum power output of no more than 1,200 W
back to the electric grid, and requires such device to be certified by
Underwriters Laboratories or an equivalent testing lab.
Section 3: Amends Section 66-j of the Public Service Law. Exempts port-
able solar generation devices from utility interconnection and net
metering requirements, as well as certain additional requirements that
utilities may apply. Protects utilities from liability for any damage
caused by a portable solar generation device.
Section 4 is the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
To confront the affordability crisis as well as achieve New York's clean
energy agenda and longterm climate goals, the state must use every tool
available to address rising energy costs, remove bureaucratic barriers,
help mitigate the impact of the abrupt repeal of the federal solar tax
credits, and strengthen existing state solar programs. Per the State's
obligations under the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act
(CLCPA), New York has excelled in utilizing solar power, but has strug-
gled in meeting emissions reductions, offshore wind, and renewable ener-
gy storage goals.
Plug-in solar devices offer an opportunity for New York to continue
expanding on the progress made towards a sustainable future, offering
residents guaranteed utility bill savings with minimal upfront costs and
without the need for burdensome permitting processes. These devices help
democratize energy production and expand access for New Yorkers who may
not own a home but have an outdoor space suitable for use, enabling
participation in the solar economy in a cost-effective manner. Wide-
spread adoption of plug-in solar devices could also reduce overall costs
for the electric grid, decreasing demand on the grid and reducing the
need for additional capacity investments, which will save all ratepayers
money.
Plug-in solar devices are not currently regulated in New York, prevent-
ing their adoption, while Utah leads the nation on expanding access to
this technology. As these devices become more popular across the United
States, adoption in the state is expected to grow significantly. Estab-
lishing clear guidelines now will ensure that products meet national
safety and performance standards, protect consumers, and promote respon-
sible expansion of this technology.
State-level leadership is urgently needed to deliver cost savings to
residents, accelerate clean energy adoption, and expand equitable access
to affordable power. This legislation provides a regulatory framework
for a nascent industry and ensures that New York maintains local over-
sight while advancing its affordability, clean energy, and climate
commitments.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
This is a new bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS FOR STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS:
None.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This bill is effective immediately.

Statutes affected:
S8512: 66-j public service law, 66-j(1) public service law