For years, California has been known as the Golden State – and with the state’s recent announcements regarding solar energy, things are getting even brighter! Solar has a long-standing history in California, and state government continues to be forward-thinking regarding the abundant natural resource.
This is evidenced by a recent building code that requires all new homes to be constructed with a solar panel system.1
What is the California Solar Mandate?
This mandate is a new building code that requires all new construction homes to have a solar photovoltaic system as an electricity source. This code was put into effect on January 1, 2020 and applies to both single-family homes and multi-family homes that are up to three stories high. The solar system must be large enough to meet the demand for annual power usage of the building. Contractors estimate the number of solar panels needed based off of the floor space and the climate the home is built in.1
Solar Mandate Exceptions
While many homes fall under the code of this new mandate, some new residential construction is exempt. Properties with a small enough roof or those receiving too much shade may be exempt from installing a solar panel system. Building developers also have the option to build a community solar project instead of placing the solar panels on the rooftop for each property.1
Cost and Savings
The California Clean Energy Commission conducted a cost-effectiveness study to determine cost and savings for Californians who purchased a single-family home under these new building codes. They found that “with the solar panel requirement, the cost of a newly constructed single-family home will increase by approximately $8,400, equivalent to roughly $40 extra per month in mortgage payments.” 1 Not only are you getting a brand-new home, but you will be getting a home that helps our environment and helps you save money over time.
Momentum Roofing + Solar is Ready to Help
As an established industry leader in solar, Momentum Roofing + Solar provides our partners with best-in-class solar systems installed by experienced solar crews. We have the ability to provide the full suite of solar system configurations and install a durable roof to match.
Our team is ready and waiting to take on any new-build projects, no matter the size. You can trust that working with Momentum means working with one of the business’s best go-to contractors.
For more information, please call 1-888-338-4663.
[1] Energy Sage- https://news.energysage.com/an-overview-of-the-california-solar-mandate