California Strives to Become Leader in Solar Roofs

Dubbed the most ambitious solar energy policy introduced in the United States, the Million Solar Roofs bill (SB1), if passed, would provide 10 years of incentives to California businesses and homeowners that install solar energy systems. The objective is for 1 million solar roofs to be installed throughout the state by 2018, resulting in 3,000 megawatts of new solar energy.

In a radio address on Oct. 22, 2005, Governor Schwarzenegger explained the need by saying, “We need to plan for the future because California is growing like crazy. Over the next decade, we are adding another 5 million people and that means more roads, more schools, more hospitals, and, of course, more energy.” The Governor also noted in his address how special interests have stunted acceptance of the initiative. He is working with California’s Public Utilities Commission to move the initiative forward, demonstrating a strong commitment to a secure energy future for the state. The Governor also proclaimed October 2005 as Energy Awareness Month.

To learn more about the Million Solar Roofs initiatives and the actions detailed by the bill, visit (www.votesolar.org).