Bill > HB4080

This bill allows individuals to use portable solar photovoltaic energy devices, which are movable devices designed to generate electricity from solar energy and plug into standard 120-volt outlets, with a combined capacity of up to 1,200 watts, provided they have safety features to prevent energizing the grid during outages and are certified by a recognized testing laboratory. Before installing such a device, a retail electricity consumer must notify their electric utility by filing a declaration detailing the number of devices, their generating capacity, and installation location, but this does not require the utility's approval or an interconnection agreement, nor can the utility charge fees for this declaration or unfairly increase minimum monthly charges. Landlords, homeowners associations, and condominium associations are generally prohibited from restricting the installation or use of these devices, unless it violates building codes, manufacturer guidelines, damages property, or exceeds the building's electrical capacity, with specific exceptions for exterior installations that pose safety risks or damage property. The Director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services is authorized to update the state building code to address these devices, and the bill also clarifies that provisions in planned community and condominium governing documents that restrict portable solar photovoltaic energy devices are void unless they meet specific safety and legal requirements. The operative date for most provisions is January 1, 2027, with the bill taking effect on July 1, 2026.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2026R1/Measures/Overview/HB4080