We can’t let the year end without discussing one of 2025’s most hopeful U.S. clean energy stories: the growth of plug-in solar.

This technology has a few different names, but regardless of what you call it, it’s the same idea. This small-scale solar system can be plugged into a standard outlet, making it possible to generate clean power and start saving on your electricity bill immediately. These systems could be rigid panels mounted in your backyard or flexible panels hung over your balcony. What matters is that they’re small, affordable, easy to install, and accessible to just about anyone.

And that’s a bigger deal than you might think.

As it stands, many Americans can’t get rooftop solar because they’re renters—and being a homeowner doesn’t magically fix the problem, either. Rooftop solar systems remain notoriously expensive, and several homeowners end up locked out of financing because of their credit scores or are unable to justify the cost of upgrading their roof for an installation. Add in restrictive zoning laws, and it’s no surprise that rooftop solar is inaccessible to 70% of Americans.

That’s what makes plug-in solar such a game-changer.

Suddenly, we have a simple way to bring clean energy to a massive group of people, helping them save on electricity costs, contribute to the climate movement, and achieve greater energy independence. All we need to do to unleash that potential is shape a supportive regulatory environment.

And that shift is already happening, one state at a time.

Back in March, Utah passed a bill deregulating small-scale solar systems, making it the only place in America where plug-in solar is truly plug-and-play. And that was a Republican-sponsored bill that passed with unanimous support!

Now, less than a year later, five more states have moved to introduce similar legislation—and it’s safe to say that they won’t be the last ones to do so.

This immense progress is in large part thanks to Bright Saver—a small but mighty organization working to make plug-in solar as widespread in North America as it’s become in Germany. In less than a year, they’ve brought plug-in solar kits directly to consumers, developed incredible resources for policymakers, and continued to connect with elected officials across the country to drive regulatory change. Their efforts have been invaluable to the U.S. plug-in solar movement.

But if there’s one more group that deserves some credit, it’s all of you.

According to Bright Saver, there is at least one instance in which our CANDoer letters brought this issue to policymakers’ attention. It’s a testament to the impact of your messages—and proof that if groups like ours continue to advocate for regulatory reform, it won’t be long before plug-in solar takes America by storm.

Join us as we fight for the future Bright Saver is working toward—one where clean energy for all isn’t just an ideal, but reality!