Is California generating more solar energy than it can handle?

It’s a common sight across the state: rows of suburban homes topped with solar panels. But as California works toward its ambitious clean energy vision, an almost counterintuitive challenge has emerged: The state is, at times, generating more solar energy than it can handle. It’s to the point where loads of clean energy are going to waste.

Who produces the most solar power in California?

The state’s three big shareholder-owned utilities now count themselves among the biggest solar power producers. Southern California Edison produces or buys more than 7% of its electricity from solar generators, Pacific Gas & Electric 13% and San Diego Gas & Electric 22%.

Does California have a rooftop solar program?

Lea este artículo en español. The California Public Utilities Commission today overhauled the state’s rooftop solar regulations, reducing payments to homeowners for excess power but providing nearly a billion dollars in incentives to encourage more solar projects for low-income homes.

Does California need solar power?

Solar supplies more than 25 percent of California’s electricity today, but it must play a bigger role if the state is to reach climate and energy goals.

What does California's solar energy overhaul mean for California?

They established a framework for utilities to buy excess solar energy from homeowners and supplement power to the grid. The overhaul comes as California needs to lean more heavily on renewable energy to meet state targets to produce zero-carbon electricity by 2045 and end use of fossil fuels.

Does California support the solar industry?

“California leads the nation in supporting the solar industry, and has provided billions in rebates and incentives since 2006." More than 255,000 applications for new residential solar projects were reported in PG&E, Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric areas last year.