California regulators have proposed significant changes to the state’s solar incentive program, drawing strong opposition from industry advocates.
The new policy would reduce net-energy metering payments to solar customers for the excess power they generate and add monthly charges for customers. The changes would affect consumers and businesses who already have rooftop panels and customers that install new PVs.
The California Public Utilities Commission said the proposed changes are intended to encourage consumers to install battery storage systems so they can store excess power generated by solar panels and supply it back to the grid later. The Commission also addressed a perceived advantage enjoyed by wealthier ratepayers who have been more likely to install PVs due to the high up-front cost.
The current net-energy metering policy “disproportionately harms low-income ratepayers,” the Commission says. The proposed changes include a $600 million fund to help low-income customers access distributed clean energy.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 21, 2021
Vancouver, B.C., may delay new zero emissions building standards
Building permit delays may postpone new standards by a year.
Codes and Standards | Jun 17, 2021
Buffalo’s parking reform having noticeable impact on development
Elimination of mandatory parking allotments encourages new projects.
Codes and Standards | Jun 16, 2021
Inconsistent building codes make some states more vulnerable to hurricanes
Florida takes top spot for strongest building code in latest IBHS survey.
Codes and Standards | Jun 15, 2021
Growing housing supply gap will worsen affordability crisis
Supply projected to fall 4.5 million units short in 2022.
Codes and Standards | Jun 15, 2021
Florida will allow virtual inspections, building code enforcement, permit issuance
New law will go into effect on July 1, 2021.
Codes and Standards | Jun 10, 2021
New York City cracks down on construction site safety
Buildings Dept. issues new safety legislation for City Council consideration.
Codes and Standards | Jun 9, 2021
ASHRAE updates health care facility ventilation standard
Includes improved guidance on thermal comfort, revisions to air filtration requirements.
Codes and Standards | Jun 8, 2021
American Wood Council releases new fire design specification
For design of wood members, assemblies, and connections to meet code requirements.
Codes and Standards | Jun 7, 2021
Guide provides strategies to overcome barriers to sustainable affordable housing
International Living Future Institute document helps with social, regulatory, and financial hurdles.
Codes and Standards | Jun 3, 2021
Conversion of large office buildings to residential will require revamped regulations
Post-1960 offices present ventilation, daylighting, and other challenges.
