State Tracker

Alaska

AK

HB 257 — Plug-In Solar Device Consumer Access Act

Pending
Current Status
Last verified: March 2026

Legislative Status

In House Energy committee. Committee dedicated significant time to the bill. No vote yet.

Sponsored by: Rep. Ashley Carrick

Legislation Progress

In Committee

30%

pipeline complete

Introduced
In Committee
Passed Committee
One Chamber
Both Chambers
Gov. Desk
Enacted

Passage Likelihood

30%

In committee. Alaska has a mixed legislature. High electricity rates in rural areas create consumer demand, but the session is short and utility opposition is present. No committee vote scheduled yet.

Session Deadline

May 20, 2026

Legislative calendar cutoff

Expected Timeline

Committee vote needed by April for any chance of passage before May 20 adjournment. Passage in 2026 is uncertain.

Key Provisions

Would exempt certified plug-in solar devices from RCA interconnection requirements.

What This Means for You

What You Can Do

If passed: self-install without Chugach Electric or Golden Valley approval.

Current Limitations

Law not yet enacted. Alaska utilities currently require interconnection agreements. High latitude limits solar output.

Available Rebates & Incentives

Alaska has no state sales tax, so solar equipment purchases are tax-free. Net metering available through GVEA, HEA, MEA, and Chugach Electric (systems 0.4–25 kW). Alaska Power Cost Equalization (PCE) program subsidizes electricity costs in rural communities. The federal 30% ITC (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025.

Official Bill Reference

In House Energy Committee (2026)
View Full Bill Text — HB 257

Opens official state legislature website in a new tab.

Alaska Solar Data

Avg. Electricity Rate23.8¢/kWh
TOU Peak Spread
3¢/kWh
Est. Annual Savings~$183/yr
Last UpdatedMarch 2026

A 3¢/kWh TOU spread offers modest peak-shifting value. Battery storage adds some savings here, but the primary benefit is backup power during outages.

Calculate AK Savings
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This information is for educational purposes only. Laws change frequently. Consult a local attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.