Home   »   News    »    City Council Climate Change and Sustainability Committee To Discuss Solar Energy Access and Hosts Ne
November 13, 2026
Climate and Sustainability Committee, City Council
NEW ORLEANS, LA — The New Orleans City Council's Climate Change and Sustainability Committee will convene Monday, November 16, at 10 a.m., to open a new docket to expand access to affordable solar energy and strengthen the city's electric grid. The meeting will include a series of presentations from energy industry leaders and advocates on the importance of transmission planning. 
The Committee will vote on a resolution to establish a formal regulatory proceeding to evaluate the use, safety, and regulation of small portable solar generation devices, commonly known as plug-in solar or balcony solar.
These devices allow residents to generate electricity using small solar panels that connect directly to a standard household outlet. Unlike traditional rooftop solar systems, plug-in solar devices are more affordable, easy to install, and generally do not require professional installation. This resolution examines how plug-in solar systems could be safely incorporated into New Orleans' electric grid, potentially opening new opportunities for residents to lower their electricity costs and participate in the city's clean energy transition.
At least 30 states have approved or are considering policies governing these devices, including 10 states that have already authorized their use.
 
The Committee is also hosting a Transmission Education Day, bringing together utility representatives, regional grid operators, renewable energy developers, and nonprofit organizations to discuss the role of electric transmission infrastructure in meeting New Orleans' long-term energy needs.
Presentations will feature representatives from Entergy New Orleans, GridLab, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), and EDP Renewables North America, who will offer perspectives on regional transmission planning, grid challenges in MISO South, and the infrastructure needed to support an evolving energy system.
The meeting will conclude with a panel discussion featuring the Alliance for Affordable Energy, the Union of Concerned Scientists, and Entergy New Orleans, focusing on the importance of coordinated transmission planning to support an affordable, reliable, resilient, and sustainable electric grid.
To view the full agenda, click here.
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