Fri May 2026, Stephan Scherer

Is plug-in solar safe?

Yes—plug-in solar is safe when it uses a UL 1741–certified, grid-interactive microinverter and is installed as intended. The safety story is not “trust us.” It’s a combination of (1) hardware that automatically shuts down during outages (anti-islanding), (2) decades of safe inverter-based solar deployment, and (3) a clear contrast with portable gas/diesel generators, which have a documented history of dangerous backfeed when connected improperly. This ...

Thu May 2026, Stephan Scherer

Plug-In Solar in the U.S.: A Simple Guide to Safety, Savings, and State Rules

If you are hearing more about plug-in solar, here is the simple version: it is a small solar system (typically 400 – 2400W) designed to help power part of your home during the day by feeding solar power directly into an outdoor outlet. Some people also call it balcony solar, but in the U.S. the clearer term is usually plug-in solar. For many ...

Tue November 2024, Stephan Scherer

Solar for All: Making Clean Energy Affordable for Everyone

Switching to solar energy can feel like a dream for many families—lower bills, clean energy, and the satisfaction of reducing your carbon footprint. But for some, it’s a dream that feels out of reach, especially for low-income households and communities that have historically been overlooked when it comes to clean energy opportunities. That’s where the Solar for All initiative comes ...

Tue November 2024, Stephan Scherer

Breaking Through the Red Tape: Solar Permitting in the U.S.

As the adoption of solar energy in the United States accelerates, one hurdle still slows the race toward clean energy: permitting. While advances in solar technology have made installations faster and more cost-effective, the permitting process often lags, delaying projects and frustrating stakeholders. Promised approval times frequently fall short of reality, but recent initiatives are working to bridge the gap. ...

Fri November 2022, Stephan Scherer

Permissions | Getting Started

Which permits do I require to install solar? Generally, if your State has already enacted plug-in solar legislation (check here), you will not need any permits, unless you plan to install your solar panels on your roof. Some States, such as California, have specifically designated plug-in solar systems as “portable”, to exclude them from the permitting process. And if not? ...