Net metering & export compensation
Replaced by net billing / Resource Comparison Proxy export rates set by the Arizona Corporation Commission. APS, TEP, and UNS Electric each have their own export credit; Salt River Project (SRP) is not ACC-regulated and runs its own demand-based solar plan.
Interconnection process
ACC Rule R14-2-2301 et seq. governs interconnection. SRP uses its own Distributed Generation Price Plan and interconnection process.
Permitting & inspection
Cities and counties enforce IRC/NEC. Tucson, Phoenix, Mesa, and most jurisdictions require a structural and electrical permit for any PV interconnection.
Utilities operating in this state
APS, Tucson Electric Power, UNS Electric, Salt River Project, plus rural cooperatives (Mohave Electric, SSVEC, Trico, etc.).
Electrical code (NEC) considerations
The U.S. National Electrical Code (NEC) does not have a listed pathway for backfeeding a standard 120 V receptacle from a solar inverter. Article 705 covers interconnected power production sources and generally expects a dedicated, breakered, labeled circuit. Many AHJs that follow NEC 2017/2020/2023 will not approve a cord-and-plug PV connection on that basis, regardless of state policy.
HOA, landlord & solar access
Check your lease, HOA covenants, and condo rules. Many states have a 'solar access' or 'solar rights' law that limits HOA restrictions on rooftop PV, but those statutes were written for permanent installations and rarely mention plug-in or balcony kits explicitly. Renters almost always need written landlord permission.
Official sources to consult
- DSIRE — state policies & incentives
- Arizona Corporation Commission
- Your specific utility's interconnection application and net metering / net billing tariff
- Your local building department (the AHJ that will inspect any work)
Bottom line for plug-in solar buyers in Arizona
Even where state policy is favorable, U.S. utilities and inspectors generally do not recognize a cord-and-plug PV connection. If you want to be fully code-compliant and earn export credits, plan on a permitted, hard-wired install by a licensed electrician with a signed interconnection agreement. Off-grid uses (running a single appliance, charging a battery, RV/shed power) avoid most of these rules but still need to follow product instructions and basic electrical safety.