Solar Panels for Your Balcony: A New Way to Go Green

In the United States, a fresh trend is emerging among homeowners and renters who want to use solar energy without the high cost of rooftop installations.

The Rise of Plug-in Solar Panels

• Size: About the size of a door
• Placement: Balconies or decks
• Connection: Plug into regular wall outlets
• Popularity: Gaining traction in the U.S. after being popular in Europe

Early Adopter: Terrence Dwyer

• Location: Oakland, California
• System Details:
• Cost: Around $2,000
• Components: Two 400-watt panels, an inverter, a smart meter, and a circuit breaker
• Savings: About $35 per month on his power bill
• Motivation: Reducing his carbon footprint

Challenges and Demand

• Installation Rules: Vary by power company and municipality
• Professional Installation: May be required for some systems
• Growing Demand: Especially as federal tax credits for rooftop solar systems are phased out

Bright Saver: A Nonprofit Provider

• Location: California
• Offerings: Different models of plug-in solar systems
• Popularity: A smaller model sold out in just six days
• Founders' Belief: These systems are hitting a nerve with Americans seeking affordable solar options

Legislative Support in Utah

• Law: Recently passed supporting plug-in solar systems
• Exemptions: Certain small-scale systems exempt from interconnection agreements
• Safety Requirements: Established by the law
• Impact: Seen as a positive step towards wider adoption in the U.S.

Environmental Motivation

• Cost Savings: May not be significant for everyone
• Environmental Benefits: A major motivator for many
• Example: Craig Keenan from Baltimore expects to save about $40 per year and believes anyone can install these systems

Other Providers

• Craftstrom: Based in Texas
• EcoFlow: Based in China
• Expectations: Demand to increase as awareness grows and federal rooftop solar credits expire