Residential customers in Utah may utilize plug-in photovoltaic (PIPV) systems, also known as portable or balcony solar, following the enactment of Utah H.B. 340 in 2025. These systems are designed to plug directly into a standard 120-volt alternating current (AC) outlet to offset a portion of electricity consumption.
Under the provisions of H.B. 340, portable solar generation is permitted for Utah residential customers, though the option is not available to customers in Wyoming or Idaho. To meet safety and technical criteria, a PIPV device must have a maximum power output of no more than 1,200 watts and must comply with the most recent version of the National Electrical Code (NEC). Additionally, devices must be certified by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) or an equivalent nationally recognized testing laboratory and must include a feature to prevent backfeed to the utility during a power outages.
The law provides specific exemptions and protections for users of these systems. Customers using PIPV devices are exempt from utility net metering interconnection and program requirements. Furthermore, utilities are prohibited from requiring prior approval for installation, charging fees, requiring additional controls, or requiring the installation of extra equipment. Utilities also maintain no liability for damages or injuries caused by these portable solar generation systems.
Current interpretations of H.B. 340, NEC compliance, and UL requirements suggest that there may not be a manufacturer whose PIPV product fully meets both the NEC compliance and the required UL certifications. Customers interested in these products are encouraged to contact manufacturers directly to confirm if they meet these standards.
While traditional solar generation systems involve permanent installations such as rooftop or fixed setups, PIPV systems are intended for portability. It is important to note that customers using these devices cannot receive compensation for providing power back to the company, as net metering and net billing programs exclude systems with PIPV devices as stated in Utah H.B. 340.
The use of portable solar remains restricted to Utah residential customers and is not an option for service areas in Wyoming and Idaho at this time.
