California's Rooftop Solar Industry Faces Impending Collapse

California's Public Utilities Commission slashed the rate that utilities pay homeowners with new solar panels, causing a 90% decline in residential solar demand since the new rate took effect. This has led to layoffs and closures in the solar industry, impacting low- and middle-income homeowners and jeopardizing the state's climate change goals. The commission defended the decision as a move towards equity, but industry experts and workers argue that it has hindered the growth of the solar market and led to job losses, particularly in underserved communities.