What the law says
Maryland enacted HB 1532 as Chapter 353, the Utility RELIEF Act; the Governor approved it on May 12, 2026. Most of the emergency act took effect on enactment, but Section 4, which adds the plug-in solar rules, took effect on July 1, 2026.
A portable solar energy generating system plugs into a standard outlet, supplies no more than 1,200 W back to the building’s electric system, and is certified by Underwriters Laboratory or an equivalent nationally recognized testing laboratory. The law does not say whether the limit is AC or DC output. A person may install one such system per electric meter, for residential use only.
A utility may not require its approval, a fee related to the system’s ability to feed power back, or extra equipment. Before installation the customer notifies the utility, provides a certification of the system’s safety features and maximum generating capacity, and pays for an automatic locking disconnect switch if the system requires one. Systems that put out 391 W or less are exempt from listing provisions that would require changes to wiring or panels.
- Bill: HB 1532, Chapter 353 (Utility RELIEF Act); approved May 12, 2026; plug-in section in effect July 1, 2026.
- Cap: 1,200 W; one system per meter, residential use only; AC or DC not stated.
- Utility notice: before installation, with a safety and capacity certification.
- Exports: not covered by net energy metering; no renewable energy credits.
- Renters and HOAs: the law does not address them; Bright Saver reports it does not require a landlord’s permission.
Before you buy in Maryland
Tell your utility before you install, with a certification of the system’s safety features and maximum capacity, as the law requires. Check your lease and any HOA rules too: the law bars utility fees but does not address landlords or HOAs.
Check the product label for safety and certification claims. Some sellers list UL 1741; UL 3700 status is not published for the kits below. Note whether the kit’s inverter output is stated in AC — several kit listings show inverter output up to 1,200 W AC, which manufacturers list separately from panel wattage.
- Use the calculator for location-specific production and savings numbers before you buy.
- Look for listed certifications on the product page and seller documentation (UL 1741, UL 1741-SA / -SB where stated).
- Confirm the kit’s output fits the 1,200 W cap in HB 1532; the law does not say whether the cap is AC or DC.
