Plug-in solar systems can be installed on balconies, sheds, walls and any other areas exposed to solar. Users plug them into standard wall outlets and immediately begin producing electricity.

Bright Saver, a nonprofit organization that aims to make plug-in solar accessible to "everyone, everywhere," particularly to renters and those who can't access rooftop solar, seeks to overcome the legislative and regulatory barriers that prevent U.S. consumers from utilizing this technology, which is popular in Germany.

Working with the Vermont Public Interest Research Group (VPIRG), Bright Saver has drafted legislation that it plans to introduce in the Vermont Legislature in January and is talking to other states about adopting the legislation, which would remove legislative roadblocks to plug-in solar.

Bright Saver now offers a plug-in solar system for $400 and has a waitlist of 2,000 people. Paybacks can be as low as a few years, depending on the price of electricity, said Cora Stryker, co-founder of the nonprofit.

Guests:

Cora Stryker, co-founder, Bright Saver.

Ben Edgerly Walsh, climate and energy program director, VPIRG.

Background reading:

Why Can't Solar and Microgrids be Plugged in Just Like Hairdryers and Toasters?

Visit Clean Energy Writers to learn more about host Lisa Cohn

Email her at Lisa@CleanEnergyWriters.com