Governor Schwarzenegger turns California into solar roof systems
While California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger is known for his action movies, few knew of his affinity for the sun. It turns out that he is hell-bent on converting California to solar power.
3.2 trillion dollar map
Last week, the state of California became the undisputed largest solar power proposition in the United States. Faced with a growing population, limited power sources, and occasional blackouts every summer season, the state really had no choice. With the endorsement of Governor Schwarzenegger, the state has just implemented the largest solar industry subsidiary ever undertaken by a state in an effort to quell the energy crisis.
On January 12, 2006, the California Public Utilities Commission voted 3-1 to adopt a plan to encourage residents’ use of solar roof systems through a $3.2 billion rebate plan. Known as the California Solar Initiative, the goal is to convert up to six percent of peak power demands in the state to solar platforms. Put in practical terms, the goal is to put solar systems in approximately one million homes in the state, particularly new homes. Approximately 15,000 homes in the state now have solar systems for power generation.
When in use, residents will receive a staggering $2.80 cents per watt off their utility bill. In addition to this subsidy, state residents will be able to claim tax credits from the federal government, as well as direct subsidies.
In turn, California hopes to reduce the stress on the current electrical grid system while avoiding the costs associated with building and operating the massive new power generating stations needed to feed power shortages associated with a growing population. . The power generated through the California Solar Initiative is estimated to be enough to replace the need for five massive and expensive new power generation complexes.
In addition to the economic benefits of the new plan, Californians who turn to solar can reap significant benefits through net metering laws. Under such laws, residents will be able to link solar platforms to utility power grids and effectively sell power to California utilities. Depending on the size of the solar array, net metering can result in reduced electric bills of 50 percent up to complete elimination.
For a state struggling with growth, the California Solar Initiative is an important move. After a landslide defeat at the polls in late 2005, the Governor has something to celebrate.