How California’s New Solar Law Will Affect Homebuyers

In 2018, California became the first state to pass a law requiring new homes to be built with solar panels. This law went into effect on January 1, 2020. If you live in the Golden State and are planning on buying a home in the next few years, it’s important to understand how this law may affect you.

Solar Power in California

The state of California has been a leader in solar energy for several years. Homeowners have been offered paid incentives to install solar panels and switch to solar power. Additionally, eight of the 10 U.S. cities that have the highest percentage of homes with solar panels are located in California.

In 2018, the California Building Standards Commission unanimously voted to uphold the decision to require solar panels on new homes. California’s long-term goal is to transition to an entirely renewable, fossil fuel-free energy grid by 2045.

Costs of Solar Panels for Homeowners

Some California residents have worried about this new law increasing home prices in the state. California’s cost of living is already high, so it’s reasonable to be concerned about housing prices going up even more. The California Energy Commission reports that the solar panel law will add around $9,500 in immediate costs to new homes.

However, solar energy is a cheaper option in the long run than natural gas-generated electricity. The Energy Commission predicts that homeowners will save about $19,000 over 30 years in energy and maintenance expenses. The home construction company Meritage Homes predicts even greater savings of $50,000 to $60,000 over 25 years.

Solar panels are an inexpensive, reliable, and environmentally sustainable option for electricity. If you plan to purchase a newly built home in California, expect to make the switch to solar energy. Although it may slightly increase your mortgage payment, your utility bill will be significantly lower.

To learn more about the advantages of going solar, contact Energy Concepts at (559) 458-2504.