California Solar Policy Update: Key Bills to Watch and Take Action On

As California continues to lead the way in renewable energy, several key solar-related bills are currently making their way through the state legislature. Here's a quick overview of the most pressing bills and initiatives in the coming weeks. Solar advocates should pay close attention, as these bills can shape the future of clean energy in the state. Whether you're pushing for stronger solar incentives or fighting against industry overreach, here's where you should stand:

1. SB 332 - Wahab (D): Investor-Owned Utilities Accountability Act – Support

Introduced: 02/12/2025 | Status: Assembly Appropriations (07/09/2025)
This bill is designed to hold investor-owned utilities more accountable for their actions, which is crucial for ensuring utilities do not undermine clean energy efforts. By supporting this bill, advocates can help ensure greater transparency and fairness in the way utilities operate and interact with solar energy programs. Action: Support this bill to hold utilities accountable for their role in the energy transition.

2. SB 710 - Blakespear (D): Property Taxation – Extension for Active Solar Energy Systems – Support

Introduced: 02/12/2025 | Status: Assembly Revenue and Taxation (07/14/2025)
This bill would extend property tax exemptions for active solar energy systems, making solar more affordable for property owners. By supporting this bill, we can encourage more Californians to adopt solar systems without fear of increasing their tax burdens. Action: Advocate for this bill to support solar adoption across the state.

3. SB 784 - Durazo (D): Home Improvement Loans – Right to Cancel – Oppose

Introduced: 02/12/2025 | Status: Assembly Judiciary (07/15/2025)
This bill addresses home improvement loans but could impact solar installers who rely on clear, fair contract terms to secure financing. While consumer protection is critical, the bill could inadvertently harm the solar industry by limiting flexibility in contracts. Action: Oppose unless amended to protect the solar industry's interests.

4. AB 39 - Zbur (D): Local Electrification Planning Act – Support

Introduced: 02/12/2025 | Status: Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications (07/15/2025)
This bill requires local governments to develop electrification plans, which is a critical step in transitioning away from fossil fuels and towards renewable energy. By supporting AB 39, solar advocates can help create a pathway for local governments to adopt electrification strategies that benefit solar adoption. Action: Support for a greener, electrified California.

5. AB 942 - Calderon (D): Net Energy Metering – Tariffs for Eligible Customer-Generators – Oppose

Introduced: 02/12/2025 | Status: Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications (07/15/2025)
AB 942 proposes changes to net energy metering (NEM) that could potentially reduce the financial benefits for solar customers. This bill could undermine the core incentive for rooftop solar installations, making it harder for consumers to justify the upfront costs. Action: Strongly oppose this bill to protect solar incentives for California homeowners.

6. AB 1117 - Schultz (D): Electricity Rates – Optional Dynamic Rate Tariffs – Support

Introduced: 02/12/2025 | Status: Senate Energy, Utilities, and Communications (07/15/2025)
AB 1117 offers new options for dynamic rate tariffs that better reflect the fluctuating costs of electricity, encouraging smarter energy usage. Solar advocates should support this bill to ensure that rate structures are designed to reward clean energy consumption. Action: Support to push for smarter electricity pricing that benefits solar customers.

7. SB 283 - Laird (D): Energy Storage Systems – Oppose Unless Amended

Introduced: 02/12/2025 | Status: Assembly Local Government (07/16/2025)
This bill focuses on energy storage systems but may not fully account for the growing need for integration with distributed solar. Without proper amendments, it could limit the potential for solar + storage projects. Action: Oppose unless amended to support the seamless integration of solar and energy storage.

8. AB 864 - Ward (D): Solar Photovoltaic Modules – Hazardous Waste – Support

Introduced: 02/12/2025 | Status: Senate Environmental Quality (07/16/2025)
AB 864 addresses the recycling of solar panels once they reach the end of their life. It's critical to ensure that solar panels are properly handled as hazardous waste to maintain the environmental integrity of solar energy. Action: Support this bill to ensure that solar remains a truly green technology from cradle to grave.

In Conclusion

As California pushes forward with its ambitious clean energy goals, solar advocates must remain vigilant. Each of these bills has the potential to impact the growth of solar energy in the state, either by removing barriers or, in some cases, creating new ones. Your voice matters — take action to support bills that encourage solar adoption and oppose those that could undermine it. Together, we can ensure that California remains a leader in renewable energy.

Stay informed, stay engaged, and let your lawmakers know where you stand!