Debug: Database connection successful Plug in Solar / Science, Technology, and Astronomy / New Mars Forums

Announcement

Announcement: This forum is accepting new registrations via email. Please see Recruiting Topic for additional information. Write newmarsmember[at_symbol]gmail.com.

#1 2026-09-06 15:12:09

tahanson43206
Moderator
Registered: 2018-04-27
Posts: 25,851

Plug in Solar

This topic is about a significant advance in availability of solar power to the public.

This forum has members who are (or have been) heavy users of solar power.

In the US, it has taken a great deal of investment to develop systems that can (safely) feed power back into the public grid.

The technical details are suitable for publication in this topic, if a member would like to make a contribution along those lines.

At a top level, it is my impression that designing an electronic system that can push electrons when the power station is pushing them, and to pull them when the power station is pulling them, and to do so 24 hours a day without missing even one alternating current cycle requires a ** very ** sophisticated electronic device.

Apparently the Europeans have made some progress in developing devices that can plug into a home power system like an appliance.

It is ** that ** development that is the focus of this topic.

This topic is available for NewMars members who might like to contribute to a body of knowledge about this (to me) remarkable new technology.

(th)

Offline

Like button can go here

#2 2026-09-06 15:13:06

tahanson43206
Moderator
Registered: 2018-04-27
Posts: 25,851

Re: Plug in Solar

This post is reserved for an index to posts that may be contributed by NewMars members.

Index:
Post #3: Report of success in Europe developing "plug-in solar"

(th)

Offline

Like button can go here

#3 2026-09-06 15:15:01

tahanson43206
Moderator
Registered: 2018-04-27
Posts: 25,851

Re: Plug in Solar

This post is the first of what I hope will be several about development of "plug-in solar" in Europe.

DIY plug-in solar gains momentum in the US

Europe’s off-the-shelf solution to fight high energy costs is finally coming to the US.

If you buy something from a Verge link, Vox Media may earn a commission. See our ethics statement.

Verge refused to show more than this teaser.

Hopefully other members may have better luck.

(th)

Offline

Like button can go here

#4 2026-09-06 15:23:30

tahanson43206
Moderator
Registered: 2018-04-27
Posts: 25,851

Re: Plug in Solar

I decided to ask Amazon if it has "plug-in solar panels" and to my surprise, it has at least one!

plug-in solar panels available in the US?

Generators & Portable Power
    ›
    Solar & Wind Power
    ›
    Solar Panels

$1,395.00
$149 delivery Friday, September 18. Details
In stock
Usually ships within 3 to 4 days.
Sponsored

    Plug and Play Solar Panel Power with 800-Watt Solar Panels and 800-Watt Inverter; Simply Plug into Wall

Plug and Play Solar Panel Power with 800-Watt Solar Panels and 800-Watt Inverter; Simply Plug into Wall
Visit the PLUGGEDSOLAR Store

Brand     PLUGGEDSOLAR
Material     Monocrystalline Silicon
Product Dimensions     16"L x 16"W x 4"H
Item Weight     5 pounds
Efficiency     High Efficiency
About this item

    Simply Put the Solar Panel in the Sun & Plug the Electric Cord to Your Wall.
    Estimated Electricity Generation average 1500kWh per year.
    Estimated to save average 20% to 40% of electric bills for average home.
    4PCS of 200 Watt Solar Panels (total 800Watt), Micro-Inverter with 50ft Cord.
    NOTE: The system comes in TWO SHIPMENTS: ---------- 1. Micro-Inverter with in-built power monitor, Plugin 50ft cord ---------- 2. Solar Panels (shipped Separately in individual packages for safety)

› See more product details
Frequently bought together
This item: Plug and Play Solar Panel Power with 800-Watt Solar Panels and 800-Watt Inverter; Simply Plug into Wall
$1,395.00
+
ECO-WORTHY Upgraded Solar Ground Mount Adjustable Multi-Pieces Solar Panel Mounting Brackets Kit System for 4pcs 200W/3pcs 300W/2pcs 400W Solar Panels for Ground,Open Space, Cabins and Backyard Sheds
$129.99
Total price: $1,524.99

If other NewMars members find similar offers or reports online please add them to this topic.

(th)

Offline

Like button can go here

#5 2026-09-06 17:05:07

SpaceNut
Administrator
From: New Hampshire
Registered: 2004-07-22
Posts: 30,846

Re: Plug in Solar

At first glance it seems straight forward but Is Plug-In Solar Legal? A 2026 State-by-State Overview

Then there is the zoning and electrical codes that have not caught up then finally your net metering company electrical provider...

Offline

Like button can go here

#6 2026-09-06 19:27:07

tahanson43206
Moderator
Registered: 2018-04-27
Posts: 25,851

Re: Plug in Solar

Many thanks to SpaceNut for providing a link to the article offered in Post #5

Here is text from the closing:

Bright Saver is the first and only nonprofit in the United States dedicated to plug-in solar, also known as balcony solar, built on a simple premise: no American should have to choose between saving money and fighting climate change. We sell our members these small plug-in systems at cost, the kind anyone can set up on a balcony, patio, or other small space, and we have already helped pass laws in 10 states that make it cheaper for people to power their own homes. Check your state on the legislation tracker, or join for $29 a year to help change the rules.

Bottom line is that you can own one of these systems, and there is movement in most states to set up a framework for their connection to the grid.

However, it seems to me there is an obvious application for these panels... The RV market is able to plug into a campsite, but if they have invested in these panels, then they can pull AC right out of the air when not connected to the campsite.

Apparently the panels are smart enough to synchronize with whatever power source is active in a structure.

The electronics to do that is impressive.

This topic is available if anyone in the membership has the time and inclination to investigate.

(th)

Offline

Like button can go here

Board footer

Powered by FluxBB