California moves to become first state to mandate solar panels on new homes
The California Energy Commission has approved a requirement for solar panels on new homes starting in 2020. The commission vote on Wednesday vote was a critical step toward possible final approval later this year by the state’s Building Standards Commission.
California would be the first state with such a requirement and Commissioner David Hochschild called the vote a “bold and visionary step.”
The commission also approved new requirements aimed at improving indoor air quality.
California has pursued a wide-ranging list of policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
No industry groups spoke in opposition to the solar panel requirements. The commission says solar panels will increase the upfront cost of homes but is expected to save consumers more over the long run in energy costs.
The commission estimates the regulations would add an average $10,500 in construction costs for a single family home but generate about $16,000 in energy savings.
Download the KESQ & CBS Local 2 app on iTunes or Google Play for up-to-the-minute breaking news alerts & more
More: I-Team and Stands for You investigations
Find us on Facebook: KESQ News Channel 3 & CBS Local 2
Follow us on Twitter for breaking news updates: @KESQ & @Local2
We’re on Instagram! @KESQ_News_Channel_3 & @CBSLocal2
Noticias en español: Telemundo 15
