California resolves to boost solar

The California Energy Commission's New Solar Homes Partnership could boost the solar industry and create big energy savings in 2007.

In addition to incorporating a roof top solar energy system, new homes that qualify for the partnership must also be built at least 15 percent more energy-efficient than current California standards.

The partnership aims to make solar energy systems a standard option for buyers of new homes. Beginning in 2011, builders will be required to offer solar systems as a standard feature in new home developments of 50 or more. The partnership also encourages energy-efficiency by requiring that new homes come equipped with Energy Star-rated appliances.

The partnership is a component of the California Solar Initiative, which was signed into law in 2006 under Senate Bill 1 by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R). Senate Bill 1 establishes three goals for the California Solar Initiative: create 3,000 megawatts of new solar-produced electricity by 2017, establish a self-sufficient solar industry in which solar energy systems are a viable mainstream option in 10 years, and to place solar energy systems on 50 percent of new homes in 13 years.