New Jersey residents will have an easier path to using portable solar panels to generate electricity at home under legislation signed Tuesday by Gov. Mikie Sherrill.

The Garden State Balcony Solar Act exempts qualifying plug-in solar devices of up to 1,200 watts from certain utility interconnection and metering requirements, including some fees, approvals and equipment mandates.

The devices, commonly known as balcony solar panels, can be plugged into a standard 120-volt outlet and use a microinverter and adapter to feed electricity into a home’s existing electrical system. The electricity generated can offset household energy use and potentially reduce utility bills.

“Balcony solar is a practical, easy-to-use tool that can help families save money while allowing more people to participate in our clean energy future,” Sherrill said in a statement. “This bill cuts unnecessary red tape, expands access to affordable solar power, and proves that affordability and sustainability can go hand in hand.”

The law also limits the ability of landlords, homeowners associations and similar entities to broadly prohibit qualifying plug-in solar devices. Municipalities will be barred from prohibiting the devices or requiring permits for their use.

The devices and their associated microinverters and adapters are available through online retailers and home improvement stores.