As part of Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger's Million Solar Roofs Program, California has set a goal to create 3,000 megawatts of new, solar-produced electricity by 2017 - moving the state toward a cleaner energy future and helping lower the cost of solar systems for consumers.
The California Public Utilities Commission, through its California Solar Initiative, provides over $2 billion in incentives over the next decade for existing residential homes and existing and new commercial, industrial, and agricultural properties.
The California Energy Commission manages a 10-year, $350 million program to encourage solar in new home construction through its New Solar Homes Partnership.
The overall goal is to help build a self-sustaining solar market.
- The California Solar Initiative Offers
Photovoltaic incentives starting at $1.90 per watt for systems up to one megawatt in size. - Funds for solar installations for existing and new low-income and affordable housing.
- A pay-for-performance incentive structure to reward high-performing solar projects.
- The California Solar Initiative will be coordinated with the state's energy efficiency, "smart" metering, and building standards programs at the Public Utilities Commission and Energy Commission, ensuring that the state is using its energy resources wisely.
- What are the benefits of Renewable Energy Technologies?
Reliability
Generate your own electricity using renewable resources. If you use a solar PV system, your electric utility can "store" your electricity, and supply it when your system is not generating. - Security
Provide a secure back-up source of electricity for your home or business, while making use of our indigenous energy resources. - Environmentally Friendly
Use clean, replenishable resources that do not pollute or contribute to global climate change. - Sustainability
Help ensure our energy future by tapping into an "infinite" power supply.
- Who is eligible to apply?
All types of electricity customers are eligible: residential, commercial, agricultural and industrial. - You can buy your electricity from any electric service provider, but your proposed site must be within the utility electricity service area of: Pacific Gas and Electric, San Diego Gas & Electric, Southern California Edison, or Bear Valley Electric Company.
- You must also remain connected to the utility grid.
