Solar Power Still Booming In California

 

by Energy Matters

Recession? What recession? Or so it would seem in California where the solar industry is thriving. 
 
Solar power generated electricity skyrocketed in 2008, and rebate applications reached record levels in the second half of the year. Estimates have newly installed solar capacity close to doubling 2007's effort. According to a report in the Mercury News, over 150 megawatts of solar panels (enough for around or 112,500  houses) were installed in California in last year; up from 81 megawatts in 2007. 
 
Back in January 2007, California launched the Go Solar California campaign, a $3.3 billion initiative aiming to install 3,000 MW of new grid connected solar capacity over the following decade. While the program has been in place for a while, the sudden spike in uptake may be attributable to not only California's incentives and rebates, but  the recent increase and extension of federal tax credit for solar power systems; which now stands at 30%.  Increased consumer concern about global warming is also thought to have played a role.
 
The California Solar Initiative, part of the Go Solar California program saw over 1,000 applications lodged during August, growing to a record 1,316 in December  2008. Across the state, over 18,000 homeowners and businesses have applied for solar power rebates, making for a total of just under 300 megawatts worth of solar panels since the program started in January 2007.
 
The programs have seen a number of solar buyers groups formed, which is where friends, neighbours and colleagues within a local area form groups to provide increased buying power in order to get better pricing on solar power systems. One local solar buyers group had an original target of 75 homes, but the list has already swelled to over 600 people wanting to have their homes evaluated
 
Related:
 
Solar rebates in Australia
Australia's new solar credits program

 

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