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While the technology hasn’t quite grown in the U.S., it could soon become widely available to 60 million Americans.
Photo Credit: iStock
In Europe, plug-in panels have been providing low-cost electricity to renters who otherwise wouldn’t have access to solar power for more than a decade. The affordable and convenient next-gen tech could soon take over U.S. markets.
According to Bright Saver, Germany provides a prime example of how regulatory changes can support solar adoption, helping households combat rising energy costs.
Already, plug-in solar panels were providing renters in urban areas with an easy way to slash their utility bills. Enticingly, they could also bring these systems online in just minutes.
Then, in 2024, the country’s Solar Package I policy significantly boosted adoption rates by bolstering tenant protections against landlord denials, increasing inverter output thresholds from 600 to 800 watts, and allowing users to install plug-in solar without professional assistance.
These reforms, enacted with safety top of mind, spurred manufacturers to produce “small, easy-to-install systems” at increasingly affordable price points. You can also save money on a home installation with TCD’s Solar Explorer, which will simplify your solar journey.
Today, an estimated 4 million German households have plug-in solar. While plug-in solar technology hasn’t quite taken off in the United States, it could soon become widely available to 60 million Americans.
In Germany, balcony solar systems essentially pay for themselves in less than three years, and Bright Saver estimates that “targeted regulatory reforms” could push the U.S. past that threshold within 10 years.
Last spring, Utah passed a historic bipartisan law to clear the way for plug-and-play systems. New York has also introduced a bill to remove barriers to plug-in solar.
FROM OUR PARTNER
Whatever your solar budget, Palmetto can help you save.
If you want to buy your own panels, Palmetto’s concierge advisors can help you save up to $10,000 on installation through a network of preferred installers. And if you’d rather get solar savings without upfront costs, Palmetto’s revolutionary LightReach subscription program can deliver.
LightReach lets you lease solar panels with no money down, making it painless to lock in long-term savings. Palmetto covers a 25-year warranty for the panels, which means you’ll get reliable performance without unforeseen costs.
To get started, just answer a few basic questions about your home and connect with Palmetto’s experts to find the option that’s right for you.
With energy bills skyrocketing, if you don’t want to wait until plug-in solar becomes widely available, TCD’s Solar Explorer can save you up to $10,000 on a solar system. One partner, EnergySage, curates a variety of competitive bids so you don’t overspend.
The Solar Explorer can even help you discover $0 down subscription options, such as Palmetto’s LightReach leasing program, which can cut your utility rate by up to 20%.
What’s the biggest concern you’d have about getting solar panels?
The cost 💰
The efficiency 🦾
How they look 🙈
No concerns here! 😸
Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.
Want to make the most of your solar system? TCD’s HVAC Explorer can help you find the right energy-efficient unit so you can slash heating and cooling costs — typically the most significant portion of household energy bills.
You can even unlock up to $5,000 in rewards for home upgrades through the free Palmetto Home app.
Get TCD’s free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD’s exclusive Rewards Club.
© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.
