SmallSolar

Is this kit allowed in California?

By Mike YuPublished September 1, 2026

Five questions about a product you're considering. It'll tell you whether it meets what SB 868 asks for, or what's missing.

We can only check what you tell us and what's on the manufacturer's own documentation. If a claim looks vague — "UL certified components," "meets all safety standards" — that vagueness is usually the answer.

  1. 1. What's the total AC output, adding up every inverter you'd run at this address?

    Why we ask: SB 868 caps a dwelling unit at 1,200 watts AC in total, not per device. Two 800-watt systems in one home is over the limit.

  2. 2. What certification does the manufacturer claim, in their own words?

    Why we ask: The bill asks for certification as plug-in photovoltaic equipment by UL or an equivalent laboratory. UL 3700 is that standard. Other listings are real but are not the same thing.

  3. 3. Does it shut down when the grid goes out?

    Why we ask: Anti-islanding is required. A device that keeps energising a dead circuit is a hazard to line workers and doesn't comply.

  4. 4. How does it connect?

    Why we ask: The bill is specifically about devices that connect through a standard receptacle. A hard-wired system is a different thing under different rules.

  5. 5. Where is it being sold from?

    Why we ask: European balcony kits are built to a different standard (VDE) and a 230-volt grid. They aren't compliant here and in most cases won't physically work.

Pick one to carry on.

Sources

Every legal, numeric and safety claim on this page traces to one of these.

  1. SB 868 bill text, Public Utilities Code §8530 — accessed September 1, 2026
  2. UL Solutions, UL 3700 plug-in photovoltaic certification — accessed September 1, 2026