Plug-in solar in Washington
Bill failed or died Checked November 10, 2026
Washington's HB 2296 included plug-in solar when introduced, but that language was removed before it became law as Chapter 136, Laws of 2026. A separate plug-in bill, SB 6050, did not pass. Washington has no plug-in solar law.
Bills
| Bill | Stage | Last action | Dates |
|---|---|---|---|
| HB 2296 Utility investments in energy conservation and efficiency - rental housing Chapter 136, Laws of 2026 | Passed without its plug-in provisions | Governor signed; Chapter 136, 2026 Laws (plug-in language removed) (March 23, 2026) | Signed: March 23, 2026 Effective: June 11, 2026 |
| SB 6050 Portable solar generation devices | Died when the session ended | No action after committee stage (February 26, 2026) |
The rules
Washington has no enacted plug-in solar law. There are no state rules to list; your utility's interconnection rules apply.
What's next
A new bill would be needed in the 2027 session.
What could it save?
For an 800 W panel kit at Washington's average residential price of 14.2¢/kWh (September 2025 – August 2026 (12 months)):
- Ideal tilt (20°, south)
- 842 kWh a year: about $83 typical (69% used at home), up to $120 best case (100%)
- Vertical railing (90°, south)
- 554 kWh a year: about $54 typical (69% used at home), up to $79 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 Olympia (capital). 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 Washington?
Washington has no plug-in solar law. 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
- Washington State Legislature: HB 2296 (2025-26) bill summary (Legislature bill page; accessed November 10, 2026)
- Substitute House Bill 2296, Chapter 136, Laws of 2026 (session law) (Law text; accessed November 10, 2026) Contains no plug-in or portable solar provisions.
- HB 2296 as introduced (Legislature bill page; accessed November 10, 2026) Introduced version contained portable solar provisions.
- Washington State Legislature: SB 6050 (2025-26) bill summary (Legislature bill page; accessed November 10, 2026)
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.