California just passed a mandate that will require solar panels on all new homes beginning in 2020. The California Energy Commission projects that the requirement will substantially decrease the state’s greenhouse gas emissions and save homeowners millions of dollars on utility bills in the long-term. But has the state put in place the proper mechanisms to position the mandate for success?

The Golden State made history last week by passing a Mandate that requires all new homes to have Solar beginning in January, 2020.  The ruling applies to most single-family homes, as well as multi-family buildings up to three stories (including condos and apartment complexes.)  Homes that are not suitable for solar (for example, those surrounded by large shade trees) will be exempt.