Bill Summary for H 1129 (2025-2026)

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Summary date: 

Apr 30 2026

Bill Information:

View NCGA Bill Details2025-2026 Session
House Bill 1129 (Public) Filed Wednesday, April 29, 2026
AN ACT TO AUTHORIZE THE USE OF SMALL PORTABLE SOLAR ENERGY GENERATION DEVICES.
Intro. by Cook, Harrison, Cervania, Rubin.

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Bill summary

Amends Article 6B, Distributed Resources Access Act, of GS Chapter 62 to add definition of “portable solar energy generation device,” a moveable device using a solar photovoltaic system, limited to a 1.2 kW capacity, and designed to be used through a standard 120-volt outlet. Adds new GS 62-126.15 permitting installation and use of portable solar energy devices, provided that (1) primary purpose is to offset one’s own electricity use, (2) applicable standards of the State Electrical Code are met, (3) device is properly certified, (4) device prevents itself from powering the building during an outage, and (5) customer notifies electric power supplier via standard form at least 15 days before operating the device. Prohibits electric power suppliers from conditioning service to a customer operating such a device on approval, a fee, or installation of extra controls/equipment. Exempts electric power suppliers from liability for damage or injury caused by such a device. Amends GS 62-126.4 to exempt customers that own portable solar energy generation devices from certain requirements and tariffs applicable to customers that own other renewable energy facilities.

Requires Utilities Commission (NCUC) to implement a standard notice form for customers who intend to operate a portable solar energy generation device. Directs NCUC to adopt the form within 90 days of the act’s effective date.

Amends GS 62-110.1(g) to exempt portable solar energy generation devices from certain reporting requirements for building energy-generating facilities.

Adds new section to Article 5, Residential Rental Agreements, of GS Chapter 42 establishing tenant right to operate portable solar energy generation devices. New GS 42-42.4 prohibits landlords who own or have more than 10% interest in more than four rental dwellings from prohibiting tenants from installing such devices but permits reasonable restrictions on placement. Requires tenant give 7-day notice to landlord of intent to install and to provide certain supporting documentation at landlord’s request. Provides that tenant is responsible for damages resulting from the device. Requires tenant receive written landlord approval if device would require altering the building.

Appropriates $10,000 for 2026-27 from the General Fund to NCUC to implement the act. This section becomes effective July 1, 2026. Otherwise, this act is effective when it becomes law.