Solar Information

Solar power in California includes utility-scale solar power plants as well as local distributed generation, mostly from rooftop photovoltaics. It has been growing rapidly because of high insolation, community support, declining solar costs, and a Renewable Portfolio Standard which requires that 33% of California’s electricity come from renewable resources by 2020, and 50% by 2030. According to 2017 data, California reported a total of 24,331 GWh in solar electricity generation, approximately 11.79% of all electricity produced. At the end of 2017, California had a total installed solar capacity of 11,229.9 MW, making it the highest solar power generating state in the nation.  It is estimated that California’s solar capacity powers 4,885,000 homes in the state, and employs 100,050 people.

Installing rooftop solar panels should be an easy decision for customers looking to lower their electric bills and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.  Net-metering and generous tax credits have made it more affordable than ever for homeowners to install panels and reap the financial benefits of going green.  Unfortunately, sale tactics have made rooftop solar a challenging bet for some.  Some companies have misled consumers about the true costs of installing solar panels, provided shoddy craftsmanship, and left homeowners with higher utility costs, all while forcing them to sign unconscionable contracts that leave little possibility of recourse.

The following resources may help you answer questions and navigate through many issues related to solar energy.

Solar Energy Industries Association: https://www.seia.org/initiatives/consumer-protection

Jason Zeller has over thirty years of professional experience in public utility regulation, including experience in all of the industries regulated by the CPUC. Previously he served as an Assistant General Counsel at the Commission for twelve years and was a staff counsel for six years. Jason is a graduate of Claremont McKenna College and New York Law School. He also holds a Master’s in Urban Affairs and Policy Analysis from The New School. He is an active member of the California State Bar Association.