Are Solar Parking Lots Coming to California?

California Senate Bill 49 is inspiring some optimism in the state’s solar industry. Created by Senator Becker and backed by Environment California, SB 49 advocates for the use of solar canopies over parking lots and the implementation of solar power along California's highways. The pro-solar legislation has been met with welcome relief, especially after NEM 3.0’s recent activation.

This sentiment was notably expressed in an official letter from a coalition of 64 environmental, consumer, and community groups that came together to show support for SB 49. Signers included representatives from the Center for Community Energy, Environment California, and California Environmental Voters, among many others. The organizations praised the bill’s role in confronting the climate crisis with practical and sustainable solar infrastructure.

So why exactly is SB 49 making such waves? Much of it has to do with the sheer scale of solar deployment that would result, and the boon this would be to a hard-hit solar market.

What will SB49 Mean for the Solar Industry?

In a recent webinar hosted by Environment America, Senator Becker presented his vision for SB 49 and discussed the importance of promoting solar energy in California. He emphasized the benefits of the bill, such as how solar canopies can optimize land use and bring energy closer to the communities that need it. He also touched upon the growth in solar demand, and therefore, job opportunities for solar contractors.

California boasts an immense amount of untapped solar energy potential in its vast highways and parking lots. In fact, parking lots comprise approximately 5.5% of the developed land in the United States, with just Los Angeles County accounting for over 100 square miles of parking lots at the surface level alone. Regarding highways, California's state highway system includes more than 52,000 lane miles, while its federal interstate highways, freeways, and expressways tally up over 23,000 lane miles.

These expansive areas generally have completely unobstructed access to sunlight, providing the perfect setting to mount solar panels. By taking advantage of these pre-existing areas, California can make up for a lot of the potential surface area lost to decreasing demand for residential solar. And given that the state is working to meet its 100% clean energy goal by 2045, we can expect to see a rapid uptake of projects if SB 49 is passed.

Solar Contractors Seeking Growth Will Find it at Grid Freedom

As we await SB 49’s progress, contractors can get the residential projects they need with the help of Grid Freedom. This top lead agency has helped countless contractors throughout California and beyond connect with customers who have passed screening and committed to pre-set solar appointments.

All leads are interviewed by a live agent who is trained to identify the best solar customers, then separated from all competition. You get exclusive pre-set solar appointments, without any worry about other contractors having access too. No marketing work is needed from your team. Simply show up to the consultation and start the sales process. Get Exclusive Pre-Set Appointments for Residential Solar at www.GridFreedom.com