VermontS.2022025-2026 SessionSenateWALLET

An act relating to plug-in photovoltaic devices

Sponsored By: Anne E Watson (Democrat/Progressive)

Signed by Governor

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

6 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 3 mixed.

Fewer property barriers to plug-in solar

Beginning July 1, 2026, Vermont towns cannot use municipal planning and development bylaws to regulate plug-in solar installation, operation, or maintenance. Deed restrictions, covenants, and similar binding land agreements cannot ban or effectively block renewable-energy devices on or attached to buildings. This protection includes plug-in solar. The patio-railing exclusion for condos, co-ops, and apartments does not apply to plug-in solar devices.

Public buildings must follow solar safety rules

Beginning July 1, 2026, plug-in solar in Vermont public buildings must follow all applicable state fire and building safety requirements. The rule covers buildings defined as public buildings under state law. It uses the latest Fire and Building Safety Code adopted by Vermont's Division of Fire Safety.

No payments for exported plug-in solar

Beginning July 1, 2026, Vermont customers with net-metering systems cannot also install qualifying plug-in solar devices. Qualifying plug-in devices are not eligible for net metering. Utilities cannot pay customers for electricity these devices send to the grid.

Easier plug-in solar with size limits

Beginning July 1, 2026, Vermont electric customers can install qualifying plug-in solar on grid-connected buildings with smart meters. Combined inverter capacity cannot exceed 1,200 watts per electric meter. Devices must connect through a cord and outlet, stop energizing the building during outages, and be temporarily but securely attached. They must meet UL 3700 or equivalent testing-lab certification and IEEE 1547-2018 or successor standards, using regional grid operators' default settings. Installations are exempt from Section 248 approval, interconnection agreements, and Public Utility Commission oversight. Utilities cannot require prior approval, installation-related fees, or equipment beyond what the device includes. However, utilities can recover costs from service overloading caused by a device.

Renters get solar access with conditions

Beginning July 1, 2026, Vermont renters must give landlords at least 10 days' notice before installing qualifying plug-in solar. Landlords have 10 days to respond with reasonable restrictions; without a response, renters can proceed. Landlords can require renters to pay for needed electrical work and use a licensed electrician. Renters still need landlord permission before doing or hiring someone to do that electrical work. Landlords cannot be required to do or pay for it.

Vermont updates product energy and water rules

Beginning July 1, 2026, Vermont's commissioner must use federal efficiency and water-conservation standards and testing rules dated January 19, 2025. This replaces the January 19, 2017 reference date for products covered by federal rules in 10 C.F.R. 430 and 431. Faucets, showerheads, and urinals keep the standards and testing rules separately specified in Vermont law.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Anne E Watson
Democrat/Progressive • Senate

Cosponsors

Alison Clarkson
Democratic • Senate
David H Weeks
Republican • Senate
Kesha K Ram Hinsdale
Democratic • Senate
Martine Larocque L Gulick
Democratic • Senate
Rebecca "Becca" E White
Democratic • Senate
Ruth E Hardy
Democratic • Senate
Seth Bongartz
Democratic • Senate
Tanya C Vyhovsky
Democrat/Progressive • Senate
Thomas I Chittenden
Democratic • Senate
Virginia "Ginny" V Lyons
Democratic • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 29 • No: 0

Senate vote • 1/28/2026

3rd reading ordered on roll call Passed -- Needed 15 of 29 to Pass -- Yeas = 29, Nays = 0