Menendez Introduces Bill to Expand Access to Plug-In Solar and Lower Electric Bills

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Rob Menendez (NJ-08) introduced the Socket Full of Sunshine Act, legislation that expands access to plug-in solar panels and helps families lower their utility bills The legislation would support rebates for eligible households, protect renters' access, and require states to consider removing unnecessary regulatory hurdles. In New Jersey, monthly utility bills rose nearly 17 percent in 2025, twice the national average.

"Families are getting squeezed by electric bills that keep going up," said Congressman Rob Menendez. "Plug-in solar is a simple, affordable way to cut those bills, but outdated rules and unnecessary fees are standing in the way. The Socket Full of Sunshine Act clears those barriers so more families, including renters, can start saving."

A typical plug-in solar system consists of 1-4 panels, with current costs ranging from $285-$3,500 depending on size and inclusion of a battery. They can cut electricity bills by hundreds of dollars a year without complicated installation costs. The use of plug-in solar systems can also help households and businesses meet their energy needs through sustainable and renewable energy and lessen America's dependence on fossil fuels and other sources of pollution.

While plug-in solar systems are intended to be "plug-and-play," some utilities and state laws require that they be subjected to utility connection agreements that apply to larger rooftop solar installations. These agreements and other unnecessary installation costs or requirements can double the price of these systems and prevent renters, apartment dwellers, or other households from accessing this practical option to reduce electricity costs.

The Socket Full of Sunshine Act would:

• Require states to consider removing barriers to plug-in solar, such as interconnection agreements and utility-imposed approvals, fees, insurance mandates, and equipment requirements;
• Set clear safety standards for plug-in solar devices;
• Create a $100 million annual Department of Energy grant program to fund state rebates of up to $1,000 for low- and moderate-income households;
• Protect renters' right to use plug-in solar devices; and
• Create a label that shows consumers their expected electricity savings.

This legislation has been endorsed by the Sierra Club, the New Jersey chapter of the League of Conservation Voters, The Consumer Federation of America, Evergreen Action, the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America Coalition, and Bright Saver.

"Plug-in solar can help households reduce energy bills, lower demand on the grid, and decrease dangerous emissions," said Sierra Club Deputy Legislative Director for Clean Energy and Electrification Xavier Boatright. "This bill would help renters and low- and moderate-income households access the benefits of clean energy. We are grateful for Representative Menendez's leadership in introducing this bill to bring American-made plug-in solar panels to more people."

"Plug-in solar can help put clean energy within reach of more American families, giving renters and homeowners another way to manage their electricity costs. By expanding access to these technologies and providing rebates for low and moderate-income households, we can provide common sense ways to access cheaper clean energy," said Allison McLeod, Interim Executive Director, New Jersey LCV. "The Socket Full of Sunshine Act recognizes that the benefits of the clean energy transition should be accessible to everyone. We applaud Representative Rob Menendez Jr. for advancing an approach that connects energy affordability, consumer choice, and American-made clean energy."

"Balcony solar is a safe and accessible way to reduce individual home energy costs. This Act will bring solar power to far more American homes," said Consumer Federation of America Director of Climate and Energy Policy Karim Marshall. "CFA enthusiastically supports the 'Socket Full of Sunshine Act' and applauds Representative Menendez for his visionary leadership in introducing this bill. It reflects a thoughtful and meaningful package of solutions that will enable consumers to save real money on their skyrocketing electric bills and ensure that deployment is done in the safest way possible."

"Americans are being squeezed by record-high energy bills and they need relief now. The Socket Full of Sunshine Act would put solar energy and the savings it offers within reach for renters and low to moderate income households who have been shut out for too long," said Evergreen Action Federal Affairs Director Dani Hupper. "By making it easier to access plug-in solar panels, this legislation will let families generate their own clean power and save hundreds of dollars a year on their bills. Solar is already saving families money. This bill makes sure renters and working families aren't left out."

"As America works to rebuild its domestic solar manufacturing industry, we need to make sure growing demand for solar energy also supports the workers and companies making these products here at home," said Solar Energy Manufacturers for America Coalition Executive Director Mike Carr. "The Socket Full of Sunshine Act recognizes that expanding access to affordable solar energy and supporting American manufacturing should go hand in hand. By prioritizing American-made products and tying federal rebates to domestic manufacturing and content requirements, this legislation can help create new demand for U.S.-made solar products and strengthen our domestic supply chains. Plug-in solar offers another way for Americans to lower their electricity bills while supporting American jobs and building a brighter future for domestic manufacturing."

"Representative Menendez has just taken a giant leap toward energy affordability for all Americans," said Bright Saver Co-CEO and Co-Founder Cora Stryker. "10 states now have laws on the books to open the door to affordable solar that plugs into a standard outlet. Representative Menendez has just opened the door to energy equity in all 50 states, for renters and homeowners alike."

Congressman Rob Menendez has been a leading voice for lowering energy costs for New Jersey families, earlier this year introducing the PRICE Act, the Data Center Transparency Act, and the Load Forecasting Enhancement Act which passed the House in September. Congressman Menendez has represented New Jersey's Eighth District since 2023. He serves on the Energy and Commerce Committee and its Subcommittees on Environment, Energy, and Communications and Technology. To learn more about his work, click here.

Read the full bill text here.

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