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HB26-1007 would save Coloradans money on their energy bills by expanding access to cost-saving solar
DENVER, CO – The House today passed legislation to remove barriers to plug-in solar panels to save Coloradans money on their utility bills. HB26-1007 would establish safety standards for plug-in solar and meter collars and ensure that utilities accommodate their use to help Coloradans take advantage of cost-saving solar.
“With the passage of this bill, we’re closer than ever before to make safe, plug-in solar options available to Coloradans,” said Rep. Lesley Smith, D-Boulder. “Our bill removes unnecessary barriers and establishes safety standards to make plug-in solar a reality for more Coloradans. Traditional solar rooftop solar panels aren’t an option for most renters, and this makes it easier for Coloradans to lower their utility bills by generating their own clean, reliable energy.”
“Plug-in solar panels are a safe and helpful tool for saving Coloradans money on their utility bills,” said Rep. Rebekah Stewart, D-Lakewood. “Our bill outlines necessary safety standards for plug-in solar devices and meter collars so more Coloradans can take advantage of this renewable energy source. Many renters are interested in solar, and this bill makes it easier for them to give solar a shot at an affordable price point and without unnecessary barriers.”
HB26-1007 passed the House by a vote of 48-16. This bill expands access to renewable energy technology by making it easier for those living in apartments or shared spaces to benefit from cost-saving solar. HB26-1007 establishes protective guardrails on the types of plug-in solar products that can be used. Under this bill, all plug-in solar devices installed must meet the UL 3700 product safety standard.
Plug-in solar, also referred to as balcony solar, can be plugged into a home electrical outlet and is more affordable than traditional rooftop solar. It consists of one to four solar panels plus an inverter and optional battery and is designed for simple, safe installation. Plug-in solar can be used to power household appliances and offer Coloradans alternative, reliable energy sources.
To streamline solar installation, HB26-1007 encourages the use of meter collars. Meter collars are devices installed between an electric meter socket and a utility billing meter to provide immediate interconnection of customer-owned solar devices to the grid. Meter collars eliminate the need for a costly electrical panel upgrade, saving Coloradans money and time on solar installation. This bill outlines a safe, consistent and repeatable solar installation process with minimal disruption and short installation times to benefit Coloradans.
Plug-in solar is common in Europe. For example, in Germany, approximately 4 million households have installed plug-in solar. If passed, Colorado would join Utah in becoming early adopters of safe, reliable, plug-in solar in the United States.