Plug-in solar in Colorado
Colorado's plug-in solar law is in effect, and its cap is 1,920 W, higher than the 1,200 W most other states use. The utility cannot require approval before you install, but it may require notification. Colorado's general device definition uses NRTL listing; a separate sale rule from January 1, 2027 uses the narrower "UL labeled and listed" wording for devices above 391 W. Installation must also meet applicable fire and local building codes.
What is Colorado's 1,920 W limit?
The statute defines a single photovoltaic system per address with a maximum power output of not more than 1,920 W to the grid. That is higher than the 1,200 W limit several other enacted state laws use.
Does the utility have to approve the system first?
No. The provider may not require the customer to obtain approval before installing or using the device.
Can the utility require notification?
Yes, at the provider's discretion. The act says the provider may require the customer to notify it of the device's presence and its size in kW. Colorado separates the two: notification may be required, approval may not.
What changes on January 1, 2027?
Colorado uses two different certification rules. The general device definition requires the device to be labeled and listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. Separately, from January 1, 2027, a device with an output over 391 W may not be sold, leased, or rented unless it is UL labeled and listed. Devices of 391 W or less are exempt from certain installation and product-listing provisions.
How Colorado differs
Colorado stands apart for two reasons: its 1,920 W cap is higher than the 1,200 W route several other states use, and it draws a clear line between prior approval, which the utility may not require, and notification, which it may.
Compare plug-in solar rules by stateHB26-1007 (2026 Regular Session). Last checked August 28, 2026.
Also check landlord or HOA rules, local code, utility requirements outside this statute, and product instructions where relevant.