California bills could lower costs for solar and heat pumps
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California lawmakers approved two bills that could lower the costs of installing rooftop solar, home batteries, and heat pumps for residents across the state.
If Governor Gavin Newsom signs them into law by the end of September, households may avoid fees ranging from a few hundred to over $1,000 for these clean energy upgrades. Senate Bill 222, the Heat Pump Access Act, would standardize requirements for heat pump installations and reduce associated fees by almost $400.
Assembly Bill 1738, the Remote Virtual Inspection Act, would allow virtual inspections for HVAC and energy projects. This bill could save Californians a collective $500 million over three years while also reducing wait times for contractors. California residents currently face high energy prices, making these potential savings especially important. The bills also aim to support the state’s climate goals, including reducing planet-warming pollution to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 and installing 6 million heat pumps.
Governor Newsom’s office has not yet announced whether he will sign the legislation.
