Rep. Friedman outlines bill to legalize small plug‑in solar units, urges support

Representative Friedman of Bar Harbor presented LD 1730 to expand access to small, portable plug‑in solar systems that can be used behind the meter without complex interconnection requirements.

Friedman said the bill would set an upper output limit for plug‑in solar units (the transcript states the bill limits units to roughly 1,200 watts or less), require a simple registration so state officials can track the number of units, bar the devices from net‑metering, permit homeowners and renters to install units without a licensed electrician, and mandate safety testing and certification. He estimated typical unit costs at about $500 to $3,000 and cited international and out‑of‑state examples to show the concept’s traction.

"The bill is designed to help Maine lower Mainers lower their electricity bills," Friedman said, arguing the measure would especially benefit low‑ and moderate‑income households, renters and seniors. He added, "I urge you to vote yes on this bill."

Procedurally, members considered special rules to allow reading by title only; the chair announced no objection to reading certain bills by title only and related procedural steps were taken. The transcript does not record a final floor vote on LD 1730 in the provided excerpt.

Next steps: LD 1730 was presented on the floor; subsequent committee referrals or votes were not recorded in this excerpt.