As the world becomes more aware of the need to reduce carbon emissions, many governments are implementing policies to encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources. In the US, several states have taken the lead in mandating the installation of solar panels on homes. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the first states in the US to mandate solar panels on homes.
California – A Leader in Renewable Energy
California is the first state in the US to require solar panels on most new homes. The requirement came into effect in 2020 and applies to all new residential buildings up to three stories tall. The mandate is part of California’s ambitious plan to generate 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2045.
A new energy policy dubbed NEM3 threatens to curtail solar adoption in California. It was introduced late last year and slashes the number of credits solar adopters get from sending excess power back to the grid by 75%.
ULSOCO
Hawaii – Aiming for 100% Renewable Energy
Hawaii has set a target of generating 100% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2045. To achieve this goal, the state has mandated that all new homes must install solar water heaters. The mandate came into effect in 2010 and applies to all new residential buildings.
Vermont – Aiming for Carbon Neutrality
Vermont has set a target of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. To help achieve this goal, the state has mandated that all new homes must be built to meet the Passive House standard, which requires the use of renewable energy sources, including solar panels. The mandate came into effect in 2020 and applies to all new residential buildings.
Image credit: A passive house by Hans Splinter on Flickr.com
A passive house is one in which a comfortable interior climate can be maintained without active heating and cooling systems
HowStuffWorks
New Jersey – Promoting Solar Energy
New Jersey has been a leader in promoting solar energy in the US. In 2019, the state passed a law requiring all new homes to install solar panels. The mandate applies to all new residential buildings up to three stories tall and came into effect in 2020.
Conclusion
As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, many governments are implementing policies to encourage the adoption of renewable energy sources. In the US, several states have taken the lead in mandating the installation of solar panels on homes. California, Hawaii, Vermont, and New Jersey are just a few of the states that have implemented these mandates. These mandates not only help to reduce carbon emissions but also help to reduce energy bills for homeowners. It is likely that more states will follow their lead in the coming years.
