Balcony solar questions, answered
Short answers first. Each one links to the full guide.
Updated October 2026
Basics
What is balcony solar?
A small solar kit you hang on a railing, wall or patio and plug into an ordinary outlet. The power goes straight into your home. Full explanation.
How much power does it make?
An 800 W kit on a south-facing railing makes about 650–850 kWh a year in most of the US. Tilted toward the sun, about half again as much.
What can it run?
It covers the always-on load: fridge, router, chargers, standby. Not the AC, oven or dryer.
Does it work on cloudy days?
Yes, but much less. It still makes some power from the light of the sky.
Does it work in a blackout?
No. It switches off when the grid goes down, for safety.
Money
How much does it cost?
Most kits sell for $600 to $1,500. Cost guide.
How much will I save?
From under $100 a year where power is cheap to over $200 in California, for an 800 W railing kit. Calculate yours.
When do I get my money back?
About 3 to 11 years depending on your state, direction and use. Payback by state.
Do I get paid for extra power?
Often not. Most plug-in laws don't require it. Plan as if it's worth nothing.
Rules
Is it legal?
In ten states it's covered by law; New York is waiting on the governor. State map.
Can my landlord say no?
In most states, yes. Colorado and Virginia limit that. Renters guide.
Does my utility need to approve it?
Not in the ten states with a law, if the kit qualifies. Elsewhere, usually yes.
What certification do I need?
Most laws require UL or an equivalent; UL 3700 is the standard written for plug-in solar. UL 3700.
Setup
Do I need an electrician?
No, for a certified kit in a state with a plug-in law. Have old or damaged outlets checked first.
Which direction is best?
South, then west and east. North rarely pays. Direction guide.
Can I use an extension cord?
Plug straight into a wall outlet. Certified kits are designed and tested that way.
Do I need a battery?
Usually not. When a battery pays.