Plug-in solar in District of Columbia
Bill active Checked November 10, 2026
The DC Council's GRID Amendment Act of 2026 (B26-0602) was marked up by the Committee on Transportation and the Environment on November 4, 2026. Advocates describe it as allowing balcony solar without utility approval; we have not yet read the committee print to confirm the plug-in details.
Bills
| Bill | Stage | Last action | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| B26-0602 Guiding Renewable Interconnection and Distribution (GRID) Amendment Act of 2026 | Passed committee | Committee mark-up by the Committee on Transportation and the Environment; placement on the November 10, 2026 legislative meeting agenda requested (November 4, 2026) |
The rules
District of Columbia has no enacted plug-in solar law. There are no state rules to list; your utility's interconnection rules apply.
What's next
A request was filed to place the bill on the November 10, 2026 legislative meeting agenda. DC bills need two Council votes, the Mayor's signature, and congressional review before becoming law.
What could it save?
For an 800 W panel kit at District of Columbia's average residential price of 24.48¢/kWh (September 2025 – August 2026 (12 months)):
- Ideal tilt (20°, south)
- 1,094 kWh a year: about $185 typical (69% used at home), up to $268 best case (100%)
- Vertical railing (90°, south)
- 710 kWh a year: about $120 typical (69% used at home), up to $174 best case (100%)
"Typical" uses HTW Berlin's model for an 800 W system without a battery; exports are assumed to earn nothing. Solar data: NREL PVWatts for Washington, DC. Try your own numbers · Is it worth it? · Railing vs tilted
Price source: EIA residential average, September 2025 – August 2026 (12 months).
Questions
Is plug-in solar legal in District of Columbia?
District of Columbia has no plug-in solar law yet, though a bill is pending. Without one, small plug-in systems fall under your utility's own interconnection rules. Ask your utility before you connect anything.
Neighbouring states
Related: is it worth it? · railing vs tilted panels · renters guide · all kits · Certification watch · how we verify
Sources
- Council of the District of Columbia LIMS: B26-0602 GRID Amendment Act of 2026 (Legislature bill page; accessed November 10, 2026)
Research note: Verification "partial": status and dates from LIMS; plug-in content not yet read in the committee print.
This page is general information, not legal or electrical advice. Laws change and utilities differ. Check the linked official sources, your lease or HOA rules, and your utility before you buy or install anything. Full disclaimer.