Solar Industry Calls for Extension of California Incentives
Friday, May 20th 2011 2:50 PM
By GetSolar Staff.
The California solar industry has grown by leaps and bounds over the last decade, in large part thanks to the support of state and local governments. Writing for The San Diego Union-Tribune, SPG Solar CEO Chris Robine insists, however, that underfunding of one of California's most successful renewable energy programs could hamper further developments.
The California Solar Initiative (CSI) was introduced in 2007 with a budget of more than $2 billion, according to California Public Utilities Commission. Since that time, Robine claims the program has saved cities and citizens $1.3 billion on their utility bills. The program has also driven down the price of California solar installations by 15 percent and created 36,000 jobs.
Despite substantial funding, however, CSI underestimated Californians' interest in solar power and currently faces a shortfall of roughly $190 million. More than 50 megawatts of solar installations are waiting for funding from the program, amounting to a $250 million energy investment including the amount not covered under CIS. Robine suggests fully funding the program could draw in another $2 billion of investment.
CSI rebates had at one point provided as much as $3.25 per watt for certain entities, according to GetSolar.com. Other programs exist, but without these subsidies California solar installations will likely prove less cost effective. Meanwhile, The Los AngelesTimes reported earlier this month that local utility programs are also running short of funds, limiting the places citizens can turn for help funding solar installations.
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The California solar industry has grown by leaps and bounds over the last decade, in large part thanks to the support of state and local governments. Writing for 
