Anson Liang – Plugin Solar is the New Energy Movement

Anson Liang, a serial founder and entrepreneur, is the Creator of PluginSolarUS.com… the definitive source of information on balcony solar, also known as plug-in solar. Imagine being able to buy a few photovoltaic panels and plugging them into a household electrical socket. While simplicity is the goal of this balcony solar movement, Anson has developed a website to educate consumers, electricians, policy-makers, and others on the nuances of its regulations and installation. The site was launched earlier this year as an educational portal to address consumer confusion about this plug and play solar opportunity. Plug-in Solar US also vets companies that are making plug-in solar kits.

Anson explains that plug-in solar has its roots in Germany in response to the Russia/Ukraine war that raised energy prices. It is a new way to make solar affordable to alleviate energy costs. The systems are small, entry-level solar systems that produce modest amounts of power to offset high power prices. In Germany, no utility interconnection permits are required and there is no need to hire an electrician for installation. Just buy panels and plug in as you would a standard household appliance.

The German balcony solar program spread quickly in four years with over four million homes and apartments participating with an aggregate capacity of more than 8,000 MW. Now it’s mainstream in Europe with 25 of the 27 European Union countries allow plug-in solar; the United Kingdom passed enabling legislation two months ago.

Balcony solar has quickly caught on in America: Anson reports that 10 states have enacted legislation; eight others have legislation pending. In New York, the bill is awaiting the governor’s signature. Participants can save money by cutting their utility bills in cases realizing 2 – 5 year paybacks on the equipment costs. National legislation has just been introduced, HR 10851. Anson describes the value or HR 10851 in harmonizing standards and its proposed $1,000 incentives.

The conversation shifts to California’s SB 868 that was signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom a month ago. SB 868 focuses on consumer safety. It requires that plug-in solar systems meet standards being developed by United Laboratories. Anson serves on the UL 3700 Technical Committee that is working on the standard. While different states have different regulations, California limits plug-in solar to 1,200 watts — about 2 – 3 photovoltaic panels — and requires certification of systems. The conversation covers UL’s requirement of a unique plug and receptacle, as well as provisions for dedicated circuits and exemptions for circuits with load management.

The conversation ends with Anson’s insights on when plug-in solar will be ready. In some states, consumers can now plug in kits less than 400 watts in size, allowable by the National Electric Code. For all interested in plug-in solar’s full potential, he suggests that consumers prepare… that they get educated and then wait for 12 – 18 months for standards to be finalized and for manufacturers and installers to develop products with simple procedures. Then buy a kit, plug it in, and cut your power bill!