California Tightens Restrictions on Rooftop Solar Compensation for Renters, Schools, and Farms

The California Public Utilities Commission has unanimously voted to reduce payments to apartment buildings, schools, and businesses that sell excess solar power to the grid, marking the second major reduction in financial support for rooftop solar in the past year. The new regulations will result in significantly lower payments for these customers, with solar advocates estimating a decrease of about 80% per unit of energy sold. The commission argues that the reduced incentives are necessary to prevent unfair subsidies and ensure that property owners contribute their fair share to maintaining the grid. However, solar advocates criticize the decision, stating that it will discourage new solar installations and hinder the state's goal of achieving 100% carbon-free electricity by 2045.