What SB 868 Would Do

California Assembly Bill 2316, signed by Governor Newsom in September 2024 and effective January 1, 2025, is the most significant plug-in solar legislation in US history. Here's what it actually says, stripped of legalese:

  • Renters have the right to install plug-in solar systems up to 2kW on balconies, patios, and exterior walls
  • Landlords cannot prohibit installation of systems meeting safety standards
  • HOAs must allow systems that meet UL 3700 certification standards
  • Utility notification is required for grid-tied systems (systems that feed excess power back to the grid)
  • Renters are responsible for installation, maintenance, and removal when they move out

What "Up to 2kW" Means in Practice

A 2kW system is substantial. Most plug-in solar systems available today are 600W–1200W, well within the 2kW limit. You could install two 800W systems and still be within the legal limit.

The 2kW limit refers to the solar panel capacity, not the battery storage. A 2kW panel array with a 2kWh battery is perfectly legal.

The UL 3700 Requirement

This is the most important technical detail. SB 868 would require systems to meet UL 3700 — the safety standard for plug-in (grid-interactive) power conversion equipment. Not all systems on the market are UL 3700 certified.

Several plug-in solar systems currently available in the US market have obtained UL 3700 certification. To verify whether a specific system is certified, check the manufacturer's documentation or search the UL Product iQ database at iq.ul.com.

Not all systems on the market carry UL 3700 certification — verify before purchasing if you are in a state where this standard is required by law.

What If Your Landlord Says No?

If SB 868 passes, your landlord would not be able to prohibit installation of a qualifying system. If they try to stop you:

  1. Send a written notice citing SB 868 (once enacted) and the specific system you plan to install, including its UL 3700 certification
  2. Document everything in writing — email is ideal
  3. Contact the California Department of Consumer Affairs or your local tenant rights organization if the landlord continues to refuse
  4. Consult a tenant rights attorney — many offer free consultations

Use our Landlord Letter Generator to create a formal written notice citing the specific legal provisions of SB 868 (once enacted).

Available Incentives in California

California renters can stack multiple incentives:

  • Federal ITC (30%) — EXPIRED: The federal tax credit expired December 31, 2025. If you purchased in 2025, you can still claim it on your 2025 return. See our updated ITC guide.
  • SGIP Battery Incentive: Up to $1,000 for qualifying battery storage systems
  • CPUC Self-Generation Incentive Program: Additional incentives for qualifying systems

While the federal credit is no longer available for 2026 purchases, California's state incentives (SGIP, NEM 3.0 export credits, property tax exemption) remain active and can still significantly reduce your effective cost.