Plug-in solar in Virginia
Virginia's HB 395 / SB 250 was signed by Governor Spanberger on May 13, 2026, with an effective date of July 1, 2026; the law allows plug-in solar systems up to 1,200 watts without utility approval or interconnection agreements.
What HB 395 / SB 250 actually allows
System size
Up to 1,200W AC
NRTL-certified, National Electrical Code compliant certification required. Units may not export power to the grid; electric utilities may not impose interconnection requirements, charge fees related to the device, or require customer approval before installation. Localities may not ban balcony solar on residential structures up to 1,200 watts.
No utility approval
Interconnection waived
No application to your utility required. Self-installation with listed equipment is sufficient.
Renters
Yes — landlord cannot prohibit
Landlords with more than four rental dwellings may not prohibit tenants from installing compliant balcony solar units of up to 1,200 watts.
Where HB 395 / SB 250 stands right now
Introduced
Committee
Floor Vote
Signed
May 13, 2026
Takes effect
Jul 1, 2026
Now in effect
Virginia's plug-in solar law (HB 395 / SB 250) took effect, allowing NRTL-certified portable solar devices up to 1,200 watts without utility interconnection approval or permits.
Legislative history
Jul
1
2026
Virginia's plug-in solar law (HB 395 / SB 250) took effect, allowing NRTL-certified portable solar devices up to 1,200 watts without utility interconnection approval or permits.
May
13
2026
Governor Spanberger signed HB 395 / SB 250 into law on May 13, 2026, with a July 1, 2026 effective date.
Apr
22
2026
The Virginia General Assembly convened in reconvened session and accepted Governor Spanberger's technical amendments to HB 395 and SB 250.
Mar
10
2026
The Virginia Senate passed HB 395 by a vote of 30–8, completing bicameral passage of the balcony solar legislation.
Feb
4
2026
The Virginia House of Delegates passed HB 395 by a vote of 97–1, advancing the plug-in solar bill to the Senate.
Jan
29
2026
The House Labor and Commerce Committee reported HB 395 with a substitute by a vote of 22–0, advancing it to the full House floor.
Jan
27
2026
A House Labor and Commerce subcommittee recommended reporting HB 395 with a substitute by a vote of 7–0.
What an 800W system saves in Virginia
Monthly savings
$13
Annual savings
$153
Payback period
~8 yrs
Based on 13.85¢/kWh avg rate · 800W system · 4.6 peak sun hours/day
Products to Consider in Virginia
These catalog picks are a starting point for Virginia buyers under HB 395 / SB 250. Look for the NRTL-certified standard and a standard 120V outlet connection — confirm local rules and stock before you buy.
We may earn a commission when you purchase through these links — it doesn't affect the price you pay. See our full disclosure →