NEW YORK · AWAITING SIGNATURE

New York: balcony solar is not legal yet — here's exactly where the bill stands.

The bill has passed both chambers and is on Governor Kathy Hochul (D)'s desk.

Bill
SUNNY Act (A.9111-C/S.8512C)
Status
Awaiting Governor Hochul
Last action
Passed both chambers · June 1, 2026

What the bill would allow

The New York State Legislature passed the Solar Up Now NY (SUNNY) Act on June 1, 2026 with bipartisan support. The bill now awaits Governor Hochul's signature. If signed, New York's 19 million renter households gain the legal right to install balcony solar. At ConEd's ~$0.21/kWh NYC rate, an 800W system saves ~$145/year, payback under 6 years.

  • Wattage cap: up to 1,200W AC output
  • No utility interconnection agreement for compliant plug-in kits.
  • Renter and HOA protections — the exact language is still being finalized.
Landlord restrictions unclear

The SUNNY Act as passed does NOT include explicit protections against landlord or HOA prohibition. Unlike Colorado's HB26-1007, the New York bill does not explicitly state that landlords cannot refuse installation. New York does have an existing solar rights law (prohibiting HOA bans on rooftop solar) but it is unclear if this applies to plug-in solar devices. If you are a New York renter interested in plug-in solar - Sol Country recommends consulting with a tenant rights organization about your specific lease terms before Governor Hochul signs the bill.

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One email the moment SUNNY Act (A.9111-C/S.8512C) is signed — with the effective date, wattage limit, and every kit legal at your address.

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What you CAN do in New York today

You don't have to wait for the bill to save on your energy bill.

1 · No install
Community solar

Subscribe to a nearby solar farm and save 5–15% on your electric bill — no panels on your building.

Browse plans in New York →
2 · Legal in every state
Portable solar & power stations

Portable panels and battery generators don't require any state legislation. Great for outages, camping, and offsetting specific loads.

See portable kits →
3 · Direct help
Utility bill assistance

LIHEAP, WAP, and state programs can cut your bill by hundreds of dollars this year. Most renters qualify and don't know it.

Check what you qualify for →
While you wait for the law
Renter energy starter kit →

Four low-cost steps that work in every state today — no landlord permission needed.

See what a signed law looks like

These states have already passed plug-in solar laws. Their pages show the wattage cap, effective date, and every kit legal at your address.

See all 50 states in the tracker →Legality checker (any ZIP) →

Frequently asked questions

Is balcony solar legal in New York right now?
No. New York's balcony solar bill (SUNNY Act (A.9111-C/S.8512C)) has not yet been signed into law. Installing a plug-in solar system that requires utility interconnection is not currently allowed under New York's existing rules.
When could New York's balcony solar bill pass?
The bill is on the governor's desk. Most governors act within 10–30 days of receiving a bill.
What can I do in New York today while I wait?
You can join a community solar subscription (no equipment install required), buy portable solar generators (no legislation required), and check whether you qualify for utility bill assistance. Details are in the "What you can do today" section on this page.
Compare across the country

Track where plug-in solar stands across the U.S. - passed, awaiting signature, or advancing through committee.

See all 50 states in the bill tracker →What is balcony solar?Solar access laws explained