Menendez Introduces Bill to Expand Access to Plug-In Solar and Lower Electric Bills
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Request tours and tickets News Press Releases Contact Get Help Write to Rob ES Modal Search Button Mobile Site Search Submit Search MENU ES Home News Press Releases October 20, 2026 Menendez Introduces Bill to Expand Access to Plug-In Solar and Lower Electric Bills WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Rob Menendez (NJ-08) introduced the Socket Full of Sunshine Act , legislation that expands access to plug-in solar panels and helps families lower their utility bills The legislation would support rebates for eligible households, protect renters’ access, and require states to consider removing unnecessary regulatory hurdles. In New Jersey, monthly utility bills rose nearly 17 percent in 2025 , twice the national average. “Families are getting squeezed by electric bills that keep going up,” said Congressman Rob Menendez. “Plug-in solar is a simple, affordable way to cut those bills, but outdated rules and unnecessary fees are standing in the way. The Socket Full of Sunshine Act clears those barriers so more families, including renters, can start saving.” A typical plug-in solar system consists of 1-4 panels, with current costs ranging from $285-$3,500 depending on size and inclusion of a battery. They can cut electricity bills by hundreds of dollars a year without complicated installation costs. The use of plug-in solar systems can also help households and businesses meet their energy needs through sustainable and renewable energy and lessen America’s dependence on fossil fuels and other sources of pollution. While plug-in solar systems are intended to be “plug-and-play,” some utilities and state laws require that they be subjected to utility connection agreements that apply to larger rooftop solar installations. These agreements and other unnecessary installation costs or requirements can double the price of these systems and prevent renters, apartment dwellers, or other households from accessing this practical option to reduce electricity costs. The Socket Full of Sunshine Act would: Require states to consider removing barriers to plug-in solar, such as interconnection agreements and utility-imposed approvals, fees, insurance mandates, and equipment requirements; Set clear safety standards for plug-in solar devices; Create a $100 million annual Department of Energy grant program to fund state rebates of up to $1,000 for low- and moderate-income households; Protect renters’ right to use plug-in solar devices; and Create a label that shows consumers their expected electricity savings. This legislation has been endorsed by the Sierra Club, the New Jersey chapter of the League of Conservation Voters, The Consumer Federation of America, Evergreen Action, the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America Coalition, and Bright Saver. “Plug-in solar can help households reduce energy bills, lower demand on the grid, and decrease dangerous emissions,” said Sierra Club Deputy Legislative Director for Clean Energy and Electrification Xavier Boatright. “This bill would help renters and low- and moderate-income households access the benefits of clean energy. We are grateful for Representative Menendez’s leadership in introducing this bill to bring American-made plug-in solar panels to more people.” “Plug-in solar can help put clean energy within reach of more American families, giving renters and homeowners another way to man
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