Balcony solar

Solar

Balcony solar is taking state legislatures by storm

In more than half of U.S. states, Republican and Democratic lawmakers have introduced legislation that would boost adoption of DIY solar systems.

By Alison F. Takemura . 26 February 2026
Solar

California bills would cut red tape for balcony solar and heat pumps

State Sen. Scott Wiener wants to tackle energy affordability by making it easier than ever for households to adopt increasingly popular clean-energy tech.

By Alison F. Takemura . 19 January 2026
Solar

Raya Power makes a solar-battery system you can put in your backyard

The startup built a compact solar-battery combo that connects directly to key household appliances, is easy to plug in, and requires no special permits.

By Jeff St. John . 12 December 2025
Solar

Plug-in solar bills are in the works in New Hampshire and Vermont

DIY "balcony" solar kits, which can save residents money and give them more independence, are piquing interest from lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

By Sarah Shemkus . 23 September 2025
Solar

Balcony solar is all the rage in Germany. Why not in the US?

A new Utah law promoting balcony solar reveals the challenges of making the clean-energy tech mesh with the U.S. grid.

By Akielly Hu . 1 May 2025
Solar

How Germany outfitted half a million balconies with solar panels

The country’s residents installed 200MW of balcony solar during the first half of 2024. It’s becoming an increasingly popular way to take climate action in Germany.

By Akielly Hu . 27 September 2024