Welcome to the Bright Saver knowledge base. We've created 18 comprehensive FAQ pages to answer common questions about plug in solar expansion, our products, installation, savings, and California's solar rules.
Start with "What is plug in solar?" or use the categories below to find the information you need. Or jump straight to our solar savings calculator to see personalized numbers for your home.
Getting Started
Learn how plug in solar works and why it's different from traditional rooftop solar installation.
Understand the eligibility requirements. You must own rooftop solar, live in California, and be on a NEM rate.
California allows you to add up to 1 kW (or 10% of system capacity) without losing your grandfathered NEM rate.
Not yet in most states, but policy is changing. Utah allows it. California's SB 868 could open access. We're advocating for renters.
Product Details
1 kW system, 4 x 250W panels, free statewide shipping, Spring Sale price $1,799.
Higher capacity options (820W or 1,640W), available for pickup or local delivery in Oakland area.
Compare capacity, weight, shipping, and pricing to choose the right system for your situation.
NEM GO at Spring Sale: $1,799. NEM Pro 2P: $1,299. Includes free shipping to California.
Installation & Requirements
You need a dedicated outdoor GFCI outlet and breaker. Electrician installation costs $200 to $400 if you don't have one.
Only if you don't have a dedicated outdoor GFCI outlet. Otherwise, you can install the system yourself.
Step by step overview of how to install plug in solar. Takes 1 to 2 days if you have a dedicated outlet.
Learn how Bright Saver's solar savings calculator estimates your personalized savings.
Savings & Economics
NEM GO saves an estimated $300 to $570 annually depending on your utility (PG&E, SCE, SDG&E). Estimated payback ranges from 3.2 to 6.0 years.
Rooftop expansion costs $4,000 to $8,000 and takes 7 to 8 weeks. Plug in costs $1,799 and takes 1 to 2 days.
Safety & Operations
Plug in solar automatically shuts down during grid outages. This is a safety feature required by law.
Policy & Information
California bill that would formalize plug in solar rules. Currently in committee. Plug in solar already legal under existing rules.
We're a 501(c)(3) nonprofit focused on making plug in solar affordable and accessible.
Key Facts at a Glance
1,000W (1 kW)
4 x 250W panels
26 lbs per panel
$1,799 Spring Sale
Free CA shipping
~1,500 kWh/year
820W
2 x 410W panels
~45 lbs per panel
$1,299 Spring Sale
Oakland pickup/local delivery
~1,200 kWh/year
1 to 2 days (with outlet)
DIY friendly
Plug and play
No roof work
~$200 to $400 electrician (if needed)
Est. $300 to $570/year
Est. 3.2 to 6.0 year payback
25 year lifespan
$7,500 to $14,250 total savings
Available now
Next Steps
Ready to explore plug in solar?
- Use the calculator: Get personalized savings estimates for your home and utility at brightsaver.org/calculator
- Read the expansion guide: Understand your NEM rights and the expansion process at brightsaver.org/nem-expansion-guide
- Check eligibility: Confirm you have rooftop solar, are on a NEM rate, and have outlet capacity
- Get a quote: Reach out to us for current pricing and availability