Can CT Homes Adopt Solar Energy?
It’s no secret that CT has an energy price problem. As demand for power rises with summer temperatures, natural gas prices to generators are rising as well. So, CT lawmakers have responded with a new bill that largely supports CT solar power in the grid. However, the law also includes some caveats that could bring new headaches for consumer looking for the lowest electric rates. So, let’s check out the new CT solar energy law and how it may affect future electricity bills.
What Is HB 5340?
On May 6, Connecticut lawmakers passed a new solar energy bill (HB 5340). The bill intends to make it easier for homes to add solar panels to their homes.
To start, the new bill extends state solar programs from the original 2027 deadline to at least 2035! The programs work to allow homes to install solar panels on their homes. The bill also allows homes to install up to 1,200 watts of plug-in solar devices as well. This is great news because it opens the door to solar for homes with roofs that aren’t suitable for solar panels.
In addition, HB 5340 instructs regulators to ensure that homeowners with solar panels will get fair compensation for excess power they add to the grid. The bill also allows homeowners to pair battery storage with solar panels, which can help protect against blackouts. Most importantly, it speeds up the solar permit process by cutting time and money-wasting red tape.
In short, this gives consumers plenty of time to install solar, which can help lower energy bills in the long run.
CT Solar and HB 5340
Unfortunately, the bill comes with provisions that add speed bumps for homeowners and communities. First, the bill adds an annual cap on new home solar systems. This means that you could be forced onto a waiting list to add solar to your home, even if you have the money and are otherwise ready to go. There’s also a 1-year moratorium on new solar farms in East Windsor and Enfield. As a result, this will delay large scale solar projects that could help lower CT electricity rates.
There has also been criticism about how to pay for these new solar subsidies. Current rooftop and community solar programs cost a combined $118 million in 2025 according to PURA. Some have said that this cost was inflated by families rushing to build rooftop solar systems before the Dec. 31 expiration of federal tax credits. For now, these costs are passed along to customers through the public benefits charge. While the public benefits charge was cut by nearly 15% earlier this year, it could still be a cause for concern in the short term.
Will Solar Bill Reduce Electricity Rates?
All the same, HB 5340 does offer CT the chance for solar energy to become one long-term solution for rising natural gas prices. So now that residential solar is protected, it’s a great time to shop for the best solar companies.
In the meantime, you may cut costs by shopping for energy plans at https://www.ctenergyratings.com. We’re also your best source for news and tips that could affect your bills.