Builders in California will be required to fit solar panels on most new homes from 2020 under new building standards adopted on Wednesday — the first such move in the United States — that could provide a big boost to the solar industry.
The decision, adopted unanimously by the five-member California Energy Commission, is part of the state's effort to fight global climate change. It came despite estimates it would raise the up-front cost of a new home by nearly $10,000 in one of the most expensive parts of the country.
The commission estimated the standards will add about $40 to monthly mortgage payments but will compensate for that by saving residents $80 a month on energy bills.