Now that you’ve decided it’s time to build your dream home, the Golden State is no doubt the best place to do it. It’s no surprise that you’ll need to review building codes and zoning laws as you draw up your blueprints. However, it may shock you to find a law regarding new regulations on solar power. Never fear! Aurora Energy is here to help explain California’s 2020 solar power mandate.
Solar Power Mandate Facts
It’s a bit overwhelming to be told there’s a new law that affects your home building process, but actually the mandate is quite simple. Here are the facts to get you started:
- After January 1, 2020, all new homes in California must install a solar energy system.
- The household’s power usage must be offset 100% and systems should be built by size accordingly. You can, however, use other utilities such as gas for energy.
- Some things (like using greener building materials or batteries for solar storage), will reduce the size of the solar-powered system required.
- Expect to save $19,500 over the life of the solar system, according to the CEC.
- California plans to have the state running on 50% clean energy by the year 2030.
Will the Value of My Home Increase?
Most likely! A great thing about going solar is the positive effect it has on property values. Studies have shown that adding a solar power system can increase your home’s value by up to four percent. Homes with solar energy systems are more desirable, according to a paper from the Lawrence Berkeley National Library. The paper noted that solar-powered homes sold for as much as $14,329 more than comparable houses without a system
Don’t shy away from building that home you’ve always wanted. Let one of our expert solar system consultants help you design the right system for your new house.
