RailWatts is an independent website about plug-in and balcony solar: the small solar systems that plug into a wall outlet and let renters, apartment dwellers and homeowners without a suitable roof produce some of their own electricity.
Why this site exists
In 2026 plug-in solar went from a German niche to a mainstream topic. Great Britain legalized it, nine US states passed laws, and Australia started work on rules. Information did not keep up. Buyers find marketing claims, outdated forum threads and conflicting advice about what is legal and safe. We want to be the place where you get straight answers with numbers you can check.
What we cover
- Laws and rules in each US state and in other countries, updated as bills move.
- Savings with transparent assumptions and a free calculator.
- Buying guides focused on certification, real-world fit and honest trade-offs.
- Installation and safety, because a falling panel or an overloaded circuit is not worth any saving.
Who is behind it
RailWatts is run by an engineer working in control systems and building energy performance. We read the bill texts, standards and datasheets ourselves, and we use long-term solar resource data for the estimates on this site. Learn more in our editorial policy.
How we make money
We show advertising and may earn commissions when readers buy through some links. That never decides what we recommend. See our affiliate disclosure.
Get in touch
Corrections, law updates and questions are welcome. Contact us.