News
California’s $15B climate action package signed but spending on energy deferred until 2022
PV-Tech – September 24
Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a $15 billion package to fund programs to tackle drought and climate change in the state. While two bills relating to solar were included, major commitments to energy and transport have been deferred to 2022. Hailed as the largest in California’s history, the climate package contains 24 bills focused on climate and clean energy efforts, drought, and wildfire preparedness. AB 1124 reiterates the definition of a solar system in Californian law and places limits on connection fees that can be charged for permits for residential and commercial and industrial-sized solar systems. SB 757 meanwhile brings solar energy systems into the definition of home improvements, which in turn extends consumer protections.
Solar roof company to open new Bay Area manufacturing center
The Mercury News – September 28
GAF Energy has opened a San Jose factory where the maker of integrated solar roofs will combine manufacturing, research, and administrative functions with the expectation that the unified effort will ratchet up efficiency. GAF Energy currently employs about 140 people at the San Jose complex. But those numbers might expand swiftly.
Solar trade association adjusts solar goal to 30% by 2030
Solar Industry Magazine – September 28
The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is increasing its goal for the Solar+ Decade, aiming for solar to account for 30% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. The organization’s previous goal was 20% by 2030. This revision aligns with the Biden administration’s clean energy targets while accounting for the growing urgency to tackle climate change and reduce carbon emissions in the electricity sector.
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