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Proposed legislation aims to bring more plug-and-play solar panels to apartments and condos, but fire chief warns of potential safety risks.
Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:40am
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If passed, Illinois Senate Bill 3104 would pave the way for plug-in solar panels, which can be directly plugged into standard wall outlets, to become more common in the state. While supporters say the panels could help offset energy costs, Quincy Fire Chief Steve Salrin is skeptical, citing concerns about fire risks from improper installation and potential threats to first responders.
The proposed legislation is part of a broader push across 34 states to make plug-in solar more accessible, but it has faced opposition in some areas. Quincy’s fire chief raises valid safety concerns that could influence how the bill is implemented or received in Illinois communities.
Senate Bill 3104 would exempt plug-in solar panels from interconnection requirements with utility companies and prevent landlords, homeowner’s associations, and similar groups from restricting or banning their use. Supporters say the panels could provide ‘a little bit of relief’ on energy costs. However, Quincy Fire Chief Steve Salrin is worried about people connecting the panels to wall outlets with extension cords, increasing fire risks. He also wants clarification on whether the panels could backfeed power into the system and pose a threat to first responders.
Quincy Fire Chief who has expressed concerns about the safety of plug-in solar panels.
Illinois state senator who sponsored Senate Bill 3104 to promote plug-in solar panels.
“Anything that gets pushed through legislation this quickly, and without the ability for organizations and… power companies and things like that to vet it, is concerning to me.”
— Steve Salrin, Quincy Fire Chief
“By providing a plug-in solar unit, it wouldn’t fuel your entire home, but it could offset your energy costs, and so you might be able to put it on your back balcony or the side of your house that faces south that doesn’t have a tree blocking it, for example, and provide a little bit of relief.”
— Rachel Ventura, Illinois State Senator
If Senate Bill 3104 passes, the Illinois legislature will need to work with fire departments, utility companies, and other stakeholders to address the safety concerns raised by Quincy’s fire chief and ensure proper implementation and oversight of the plug-in solar program.
The push for more accessible plug-in solar power faces pushback from fire safety officials who want to ensure proper safeguards are in place. As Illinois considers this legislation, balancing renewable energy goals with public safety will be crucial to the success of any new solar initiatives.
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