California regulators have delayed a vote on a proposal that would exempt some new homes from having to install solar panels.
California is the first state in the country to require solar panels on new homes. The rules take effect Jan. 1. But the rules allow builders to not install solar panels if the homes share solar power through a system approved by the California Energy Commission.
The Sacramento Municipal Utility District was the first utility to apply for a shared solar pro-gram for new developments. But the Energy Commission delayed voting on the proposal on Wednesday after dozens of people spoke against it during a public hearing.
Opponents worry other utilities would adopt similar proposals, which they fear would under-mine California’s energy goals.
Associated Press
