Defend Rooftop Solar

Learn what native plants and rooftop solar have in common

California has a proud history of being the first in major environmental protections: We lead the nation in discussions on climate change and biodiversity, not the least of which is California’s broadly publicized 30×30 Initiative to protect 30 percent of its lands and waters by 2030.

But Californians continue to be presented with false choices between clean energy and habitat protection. In December 2021, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) proposed to enact changes to Net Energy Metering: The credit homeowners receive for generating power beyond what they use would be cut by 87% and the average homeowner would have to pay a “tax” of $56 a month for their rooftop solar.

This will drive consumers away from rooftop solar and create greater pressure to build facilities on intact desert and grassland habitats. This is antithetical to California’s goal of conserving land while shifting to renewable energy. CNPS has long advocated for clean energy in the right locations–this includes rooftop solar as an alternative to destructive, large-scale energy development that impacts pristine habitat.

Ghost flower, monkeyflower, poppy and lupine. Credit Amy Patten
Ghost flower, monkeyflower, poppy and lupine. Credit Amy Patten.
Creosote bushes, chia (Salvia columbariae), Parish's poppy (Eschscholzia parishii), and desert dandelion (Malacothrix glabrata) Photo: Hannah Garcia
Creosote bushes, chia (Salvia columbariae), Parish’s poppy (Eschscholzia parishii), and desert dandelion (Malacothrix glabrata) Photo: Hannah Garcia

Defend Rooftop Solar Today

The need for clean energy is real, and growing quickly. Without rooftop solar, native plant habitat–especially in California’s deserts–will be converted to energy sites.  Solar panels belong on rooftops, not in pristine habitat.

If you agree, call Governor Newsom at (916) 445-2841 and tell him you are opposed to the rooftop solar proposal released by the CPUC. The time to act is now: Hearings are being held, with a CPUC vote expected February 10th.

Rooftop solar in the news

Multi-family home. Credit: Solar Alliance
Multi-family home. Credit: Solar Alliance
Anza Borrego - Bigelow's monkeyflower (Diplacus bigelovii) Photo: Elizabeth Kubey
Anza Borrego – Sand verbena Photo: Amy Patten
Event photo captured at Capitol Park, Sacramento by Samantha May Photography
Event photo captured at Capitol Park, Sacramento by Samantha May Photography

Join Us!

When you save plants, you save places.

Join CNPS