About Plugshine
An independent guide to plug-in solar and lower electricity bills for American renters and homeowners.
Last updated
Why we exist
In 2025, Utah became the first US state to let people plug a small solar system into an ordinary wall outlet. By October 2026, ten states had followed, dozens more were debating it, and electricity prices were still climbing faster than inflation.
The information people needed — is it legal here? what would it actually save me? how do I do it safely? — was scattered across bill texts, utility filings, advocacy sites and product pages that all want to sell you something.
Plugshine puts it in one place, clearly, with sources.
What we do
- Track the law. Every state and DC, with bill numbers, wattage caps, signing and effective dates, and links to the reporting we rely on. Each state page shows the date it was last verified.
- Run honest numbers. Our calculator uses each state's actual average residential electricity price and realistic production assumptions — including the inconvenient fact that surplus power sent to the grid earns nothing.
- Explain it plainly. Our guides cover how plug-in solar works, what it saves, renter rights, safety standards like UL 3700, and how to lower your bill even if plug-in solar isn't legal where you live yet.
What we don't do
- We don't sell panels, kits or installations.
- We don't sell leads to installers or ask for your phone number.
- We don't accept payment for rankings or coverage.
The site is supported by display advertising. Advertisers have no influence over what we write. If we ever add affiliate links, they will be clearly labeled and will never change our recommendations.
Editorial standards
Every factual claim about a law cites its source. When sources conflict — on an effective date, for example — we say so or use the most conservative reading, and we update pages when official information becomes available. Read our full methodology.
Plugshine is information, not legal or electrical advice. For your specific situation, check with your state's official sources, your utility and a licensed electrician.
Get in touch
Spotted an error or a law change we missed? Contact us — corrections are our top priority.