"Plug-in solar provides the opportunity for more people to invest in the clean energy transition, experts say."
"After Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, electricity prices shot up across Europe and consumers looked for ways to save. One popular option was plug-in solar —-inexpensive and easy-to-install renewable energy systems that began to appear in store aisles.
Now, Germany is the global leader in plug-in solar with about 1 million systems in official counts and probably many more that utilities and local governments haven’t counted.
I looked to Germany this week because I’ve been unsure whether plug-in solar makes sense for U.S. consumers, and I think Germany’s experience provides some clues about what may work here.
The benefits are clear. An entry-level plug-in system costs about $500 to $1,000 and can be installed in a backyard, on a balcony or on a roof. The electricity enters your home through a standard wall outlet, where it helps offset the electricity you draw from the grid. The low cost makes solar accessible for people who can’t afford to spend $10,000 or more on an electrician-installed rooftop array."
