Status as of September 23, 2026: SB 868 is on Governor Newsom's desk (deadline September 30). If signed, it takes effect January 1, 2027.
Renters are the people plug-in solar was made for: no roof to work with, no long-term remodel, and a balcony that gets good sun. SB 868 is a big step for renters in California, so it's worth being clear about exactly which door it opens.
What SB 868 gives renters
- No utility permission needed. For certified systems up to 1,200 watts AC per home, your utility can't require an interconnection agreement or its approval before you plug in.
- No utility fees. Your utility can't charge a fee for the device or the power it feeds into your home's wiring.
- At most, a simple registration. A utility may ask for your address and system size through a short online form, but it can't make that an approval step.
For renters, that removes the biggest practical hurdle. Under rooftop-style rules, interconnection paperwork often required the account holder and property owner to be involved. SB 868 takes that paperwork away for small plug-in devices.
What SB 868 does not cover
The bill is written about utilities. The enrolled text does not include rules about landlords, property managers, leases or HOAs, and it does not change local building or fire codes. So:
- Your lease still matters. Rules about what can be attached to railings or kept on balconies still apply.
- Balcony safety rules still apply. Many cities have rules about blocking exits or overloading railings.
- HOA and building rules on appearance may still apply in condos and managed complexes.
Some articles online say SB 868 stops landlords from banning balcony solar. Based on the bill text as passed by the Legislature, it doesn't include that. We'd rather you hear it from us than find out from your property manager.
How to make it easy with your landlord
- Lead with “portable.” A plug-in kit clamps on and plugs in. No drilling into the roof, no rewiring, and it comes with you when you move.
- Share the safety specs. Certified equipment, automatic shutoff if the grid goes down, and a zero-export meter so nothing is sent back to the grid.
- Offer to put it in writing. A short note that you'll remove the system and restore the railing when you move out goes a long way.
- Ask before you mount. A quick email now is better than a removal request later.
Want a hand? Contact us and we'll send a one-page spec sheet you can forward to your property manager.
This article is general information, not legal advice. SB 868 details are based on the enrolled bill text (August 28, 2026). Your lease, HOA rules and local codes may add requirements.