CA Agency Launches Web Site to Promote Solar in New Home Construction

Beginning January 1, 2007, the California Energy Commission will manage a program of about $400 million, complementing the program approved by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). The Energy Commission will work with home builders and the building industry to accelerate the growth of photovoltaics (PV) in new home subdivisions, whereas the CPUC will focus on solar installations on existing residential and commercial buildings. A portion of the program funds will be allocated to special incentives for low-income and affordable housing.

During 2006, residential and small businesses planning to install PV systems less than 30 kilowatts in size can continue to qualify for rebate incentives under the Energy Commission's Emerging Renewables Program. Currently, the rebate is $2.80 per installed watt.

"The Energy Commission's goal is to have reliable and current information available in one place for consumers and home builders," said Commissioner Jackalyne Pfannenstiel.

The average household in California uses about 6,500 kilowatt-hours per year, and a PV system in the three-to four-kilowatt range would be adequate to meet most electricity needs.

As of April 2006, California has over 17,300 grid-connected PV systems installed in California, representing 136 megawatts of power. The CPUC and the Energy Commission are looking to accelerate California's renewable energy goal of 20 percent procured renewable power by 2010.

The California Energy Commission's new web site can be viewed at: www.newsolarhomes.ca.gov

This eUpdate posting by: Steve Joyce, Editor