Solar power can make a difference in keeping our lights on without smog or global warming pollution.

The California Independent System Operator (ISO) is forecasting a potential electricity shortage this afternoon of 290 megawatts (MW) due to heavy use of air conditioners throughout the state. This shortfall – the difference between the amount of peak electricity resources the state has on hand and the predicted demand - is roughly the equivalent to the amount of solar power California has installed throughout the state. This narrow but critical gap between supply and demand highlights how even a relative small amount of solar power can play a huge role in keeping the lights, and doing so without air pollution.

Looking ahead, meeting California’s million solar roofs goal, adding 3,000 MW of solar power over the next ten years, will eclipse today’s predicted shortfall ten times over. The additional capacity to be installed on homes and businesses throughout the state is roughly the same as adding 50 peaking power plants, without the public health, environmental and economic costs that come from burning fossil fuels.

The Million Solar Roofs Initiative, created last year with the passage of SB 1 (Murray), has made $3.2 billion available to consumers who purchase a solar power system. The typical solar home costs around $25,000 pre-rebates. With a rebate, the cost is cut in half and can pay for itself within 8-10 years, or immediately if financed through a low-interest loan. So far, in the first six months of the program, California has installed 25 MW of solar power with only six months worth of progress to report.

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