Governor Mikie Sherrill on Tuesday signed new legislation aimed at making small-scale solar energy more accessible to New Jersey residents, including renters and apartment dwellers who may not have access to traditional rooftop solar systems.

The Garden State Balcony Solar Act, S2368/A4836, removes a number of utility and permitting requirements for qualifying portable solar systems that can be plugged directly into a standard household outlet.

Under the new law, plug-in solar devices of up to 1,200 watts will be exempt from certain utility interconnection and metering requirements, including some fees, approvals and equipment mandates.

Balcony solar systems generally include solar panels, a microinverter and an adapter that connects to a standard 120-volt outlet. Electricity generated by the panels feeds directly into the home’s electrical system, helping offset electricity usage and potentially reducing monthly utility costs.

The legislation also limits the ability of landlords, homeowner associations and similar entities to broadly prohibit the devices. Municipalities will also be barred from banning qualifying systems or requiring local permits for their use.

“Balcony solar is a practical, easy-to-use tool that can help families save money while allowing more people to participate in our clean energy future,” Sherrill said, adding that the measure is intended to expand access to affordable solar while reducing regulatory barriers.

Supporters of the legislation say the new law could particularly benefit renters, apartment residents and homeowners who are unable or unwilling to install a full rooftop solar system.

The governor’s office said the legislation is part of a broader effort to expand energy generation and reduce electricity costs throughout the state. The administration has also moved to expand community solar, approve additional solar and battery-storage projects and accelerate the deployment of new grid technologies.

State officials and clean-energy advocates praised the new law, saying plug-in solar provides residents with another option to generate electricity at home without the cost and complexity of a traditional solar installation.