Authored by: Senator J.D. Ford Referred to: Senate Committee on Utilities
The gist: SB 74 seeks to clear a path for “plug-in” or “balcony” solar in Indiana.
Advocate: Use this form from HEC to send your state senator a message urging their support for SB 74.
HEC’s analysis: Current Indiana law does not distinguish between full-scale rooftop solar arrays and the newer, much smaller residential solar units (under 1.2 kw) that plug into existing outlets and give a broader mix of residents an option for reducing their baseline energy usage. Consequently, plug-in solar systems are subject to the same regulations and interconnection agreements that govern full-scale rooftop solar arrays.
Under SB 74, plug-in solar units would not be subject to the interconnection agreements and associated fees that govern rooftop solar in Indiana. Because of their small size, plug-in solar systems rarely export electricity to the grid, so SB 74 stipulates that utilities aren’t required to make surplus energy repayments to users. The bill also outlines safety requirements and releases the utility from liability for injury or damages caused to a customer by a plug-in home solar unit.
Update 2/3/26: Despite having picked up two Republican co-sponsors (Senator Spencer Deery and Senator Blake Doriot), SB 74 did not receive a hearing and has no clear path forward this session.
To access the full text of this bill, click here. To see the latest actions on this bill, click here.
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