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Commission opens discussion on requiring solar for new construction; staff to begin stakeholder outreach
Summary
Commissioners introduced a draft resolution to explore mandating solar on new construction where feasible. Staff will conduct stakeholder outreach and return with options for policy design and timing.
The San Francisco Commission on the Environment on Dec. 3 opened a discussion on a proposed policy to encourage — and where feasible require — solar installations on new construction in the city.
Commissioner Nicholas Josepowicz argued that installing solar during new construction reduces costs (truck-rolls, permitting and interconnection delays) and can make solar more affordable and job-creating for local installers. He described examples from other California cities, including Lancaster and Sebastopol.
Danielle Murray, the department’s Renewable Energy Program Manager, said the department will undertake stakeholder outreach over the coming months with developers, labor, environmental groups and homeowners to shape a policy that fits San Francisco’s building stock. Commissioners discussed potential scopes including new residential, new commercial, and substantial rehabilitation projects.
No vote was taken; commissioners directed staff to pursue public and stakeholder engagement and consider draft amendments before bringing a formal recommendation back to the commission.
