# Menendez Proposes $100 Million Solar Grants

Representative Rob Menendez introduced the Socket Full of Sunshine Act on October 20, 2026. The proposed legislation would establish a Department of Energy program providing $100 million annually in grants to states for rebates of up to $1,000 per eligible low- and moderate-income household purchasing plug-in solar. It also proposes safety standards and measures to reduce barriers to plug-in solar use, including for renters. The bill has not created an open solicitation or award opportunity; any procurement or market activity would depend on the legislation advancing and the program being established.

- State agencies and prospective program administrators may find future work in grant and rebate administration if the proposed program is enacted.
- Solar manufacturers and suppliers can assess potential demand for plug-in solar products, including U.S.-manufactured products; the signals do not announce a procurement or establish a domestic-content requirement.
- Organizations developing or supplying plug-in solar products can review the proposed focus on safety and consumer access when planning offerings, while distinguishing proposed provisions from current requirements.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** October 21, 2026

### Government Entities
- U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
- U.S. House of Representatives (House)
- State governments

### Key Quotes
> By prioritizing American-made products and tying federal rebates to domestic manufacturing and content requirements, this legislation can help create new demand for U.S.-made solar products and strengthen our domestic supply chains.
> — Mike Carr, Executive Director of the Solar Energy Manufacturers for America Coalition

> Este proyecto de ley ayudaría a los inquilinos y a los hogares de ingresos bajos y moderados a acceder a los beneficios de la energía limpia.
> — Xavier Boatright, subdirector legislativo de Energía Limpia y Electrificación del Sierra Club

### Sources
- [Menendez Introduces Bill to Expand Access to Plug-In Solar and Lower Electric Bills | U.S. House Representative Rob Menendez](https://menendez.house.gov/media/press-releases/menendez-introduces-bill-to-expand-access-to-plug-in-solar-and-lower-electric-bills) - Menendez
- [Menendez presenta un proyecto de ley para ampliar el acceso a la energía solar enchufable y reducir las facturas eléctricas | U.S. House Representative Rob Menendez](https://menendez.house.gov/media/press-releases/menendez-presenta-un-proyecto-de-ley-para-ampliar-el-acceso-a-la-energia-solar-enchufable-y-reducir-las-facturas-electricas) - Menendez