The vote at the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) was tight – at 3-2 – and the solar industry did not get everything it wanted. Homeowners that buy or lease new rooftop solar systems will be required to pay new grid-upkeep fees and other charges, denting the economic case of going solar somewhat.
But the decision, holding both practical and symbolic importance, represents a big win for the solar industry, particularly coming on the heels of Nevada’s decision to phase out net-metering entirely – even for existing system owners.
