Energy experts urge lawmakers to open the US floodgates to renter-friendly, plug-in solar panels: 'It could spark a … movement' – The Cool Down

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“Once 5 or so more states modernize their rules, it unlocks … $250 billion.”
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Plug-in solar is gaining traction in the U.S. and could transform how millions of households access clean, less expensive energy. 
This comes as good news, given roughly 70% of U.S. households can’t access rooftop solar due to high upfront costs and roof constraints. Widely used in Europe, these plug-ins connect to a standard outlet and cost 80-90% less than traditional rooftop setups, per a Bright Saver Instagram post. 
“If five or more U.S. states follow this path, it could spark a similar movement — one that would give startups like ours, and the investors backing us, the conviction to provide and scale plug-in solar products aimed for those unserved by solar solutions today, such as apartment dwellers,” explained Raya Power CEO Meghan Wood. 
EnergySage’s free tools can help homeowners find the best solar installation estimates and get quotes from reliable local installers. 
Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers in your area.
To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.
However, outdated regulations are slowing adoption. Bright Saver co-founder Cora Stryker explained in a press release that once market forces are no longer inhibited, plug-in solar could become more accessible and affordable, broadening access for millions of U.S. households, including renters and apartment dwellers. 
Some homeowners are already seeing the benefits of solar plug-in systems. 
For homeowners exploring solar options, EnergySage connects users with trusted energy advisers who can answer questions and offer guidance in comparing installers. Through EnergySage, homeowners can save up to $10,000 on solar options and installation costs. Its mapping tool shows average solar panel system costs per state and available incentives, helping households compare clean energy options. 
Adding battery storage can help households maximize the value of a solar system. Battery storage can provide greater energy independence, backup power during outages, and additional long-term savings. EnergySage’s free tools present available options for households considering solar and battery storage.
FROM OUR PARTNER
Want to go solar but not sure who to trust? EnergySage has your back with free and transparent quotes from fully vetted providers that can help you save as much as $10k on installation.
To get started, just answer a few questions about your home — no phone number required. Within a day or two, EnergySage will email you the best local options for your needs, and their expert advisers can help you compare quotes and pick a winner.
“If just a few more states also align on clear regulations, we can justify making the bigger R&D and marketing investments — on top of our rapidly growing European business — to go after this market at scale,” shared former Jackery CEO Anson Liang.
Kerim Baran, founder of Enki Solar Investments, said: “Once 5 or so more states modernize their rules, it unlocks the massive $250 billion residential U.S. electricity market. That’s when plug-in solar shifts from a policy niche to a mainstream investable trend.”
If you don’t have solar panels on your home, which of these factors is the biggest barrier to installing them?
Upfront costs 💰
Trouble with my HOA 🚩
Too much maintenance 🔧
An incompatible roof 🏠
Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

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© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.

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