Wyoming Lawmakers Reject Plug-In Solar Bill Amid Utility Safety Concerns
Wyoming lawmakers in the House Transportation, Highways and Military Affairs Committee have rejected House Bill 146, titled the “Affordable electricity act of 2026,” which aimed to exempt small plug-in solar devices from state-level regulations. The bill, sponsored by Jackson Democratic Rep. Liz Storer, sought to clarify that these devices, unlike rooftop solar systems, would not require city inspections or utility interconnection approval. Proponents argued that plug-in solar panels, often referred to as “balcony solar,” could save renters and homeowners hundreds of dollars monthly, with an investment ranging from $300 to $2,000. This is significantly less than the $10,000 or more required for a full rooftop solar array. Utah passed similar legislation last year, and at least 24 other states are reportedly considering such measures. However, utility representatives, including those from Rocky Mountain Power and Black Hills Energy, raised safety concerns, particularly regarding the potential for overloadin... 
