How much can balcony solar save in Virginia?

At Virginia's average residential rate of about 17.1¢/kWh, a typical 800W plug-in kit saves roughly $119/year. Use the balcony solar calculator for a precise estimate based on your home and sun exposure.

Is plug-in solar legal in Virginia?

Legal — signed into law

Yes. Virginia has signed plug-in solar into law (HB 395). Signed by Gov. Spanberger on April 22, 2026 as Chapter 1052 (3rd state). Most provisions effective July 1, 2026.

HB 395 — key provisions

Passed with wide bipartisan margins (House 96–0, Senate 30–8).
Protects both renters and homeowners; first Mid-Atlantic state to enact.

Avg electricity rate

17.1¢/kWh

Est. savings, 800W kit

~$119/yr

Legal size cap

1,200W

Safety basics (everywhere)

Regardless of your state's law, use a kit with a UL 1741 (or UL 3700) certified microinverter, plug into a GFCI-protected outlet on a dedicated circuit, and don't exceed the circuit's rating. These are the same safety rules the new state laws are built around.

Thinking about balcony solar in Virginia?

Ask the free Energy Advisor about the rules and your savings, or jump straight to the calculator.

Estimate your exact payback

Our balcony solar calculator models production, savings, and payback for Virginia using your home's sun exposure and the best available kits.

Open the balcony solar calculator →

General guidance, not legal advice. Plug-in solar law is changing quickly; this reflects our reading of Virginia legislative records and reporting as of June 18, 2026. Confirm the current rule with the Virginia legislature and your utility before installing. See all states →