Plug-in solar panels come to America from Germany

Solar power is now cheaper than nearly all new fossil fuel sources. In Germany, homeowners have been using simple plug-in solar panels on their balconies and roofs for years. These devices plug right into standard wall outlets, making clean energy easy for everyone.

The plug-in solar panels help people cut their power bills and depend less on rising energy costs. Germany sells more of these devices than anywhere else in the world. The country plans to become climate-neutral by 2045, and these panels are helping reach that goal.

For years, the US could not use these portable solar systems because we lacked safety rules. That changed in 2025 when Utah became the first state to allow plug-in solar. Vermont, Maryland, and New Hampshire soon followed. People in these states are excited to have another way to save energy and money while helping the environment.

Linda Gray from Vermont's Norwich Energy Committee says people want to take action. They want to save energy, cut costs, and reduce pollution. Portable solar gives our communities one more tool to build a cleaner future together.

Key details

• Climate goal: 2045
• First US state: Utah
• Year allowed: 2025
• Following states: Vermont, Maryland, New Hampshire

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This is part of Our Environment — environment, climate, and the land we share.