What Legislation is Impacting the Solar Industry?

In a move to make solar energy more accessible, California is the first state to require solar panels on all new homes.

Current Status of the Bill

The final step in the legislative process came about when the California Building Standards Commission upheld an earlier decision to require all homes up to three stories to include solar panels. The new law goes into effect on January 1, 2020.

Expected Impact

Less than 10 percent of detached single-family homes in California presently have solar panels. However, the state has been striving to lower its carbon footprint by decreasing greenhouse gas emissions, and solar panels are seen as one way to accomplish that. By the year 2045, the Golden State wants to transition from a grid dependent on fossil fuels to one that is fully supported by renewable energy. The new rule will help to expedite that process.

Solar Panel Benefits

In addition to improving the energy efficiency of a home, solar panels also reduce emissions from electric power generating stations fueled by natural gas. Some of these emissions have been linked with damage to the ozone layer.

Homeowner Benefits

Although there is some hesitancy concerning the upfront cost of installing solar panels, the consensus is that the savings will be significant in the long run. In addition, solar panels increase home values by as much as $30,000, according to Meritage Homes. While that may make buying a home costlier, the operating costs of that home could be reduced by as much as $60,000 over a 25-year period.

Bottom line: If you want to learn more about going solar, contact Energy Concepts at (559) 377-7080.