CSE

Center for Sustainable Energy

Community Solar in California: A Missed Opportunity

California lags behind many other states in efforts to embrace community solar through the programs of its regulated utilities. This is a missed opportunity on two fronts given that well-designed community solar programs can help make access to renewable energy more equitable and allow distributed solar photovoltaics (PV) to work better with the electricity grid.

  March 2018
 

Understanding San Diego's Path to 100% Renewable Energy

Two years ago, San Diego took the national spotlight for its commitment to source 100% renewable energy by 2035. The city is now poised to make decisions that chart the path toward this bold goal. This summary examines how we got here and what you need to know to join the conversation about where we go next.

  August 2017
 

Electric Vehicle Charging Station (EVCS) Toolkit Guide: Checklist for Residential and Nonresidential Permit Application

The checklists are one page reference sheets to ensure proper EVCS installation. Submittal and documentation requirements are also clearly listed in the checklists. Required by AB1236, this checklist is a guide for permit applicants. These checklists are in the public domain, and may be used or modified for individual jurisdictions as seen fit for a specific jurisdiction to post on their corresponding website.

  July 2017
 

Electric Vehicle Charging Station (EVCS) Toolkit Guide: Plan Review and Permit Correction Sheet for Residential and Nonresidential

The correction sheets provide code references and detailed guidance for both residential and nonresidential EVCS installations. These correction sheets may be used alongside the permit application checklists listed above.

  July 2017
 

How to Connect with a Solar Contractor

CSE recommends contacting and evaluating at least three contractors and their bids before selecting one to install your system. Consider the video tips and best practices.

  June 2017
 

Solar Panels & Inverters

PV panels can be evaluated by cost, efficiency and power capacity. Typically the higher the power rating and efficiency, the higher the panel cost.

  June 2017
 

What is Solar Electricity

The video explains how solar electricity is produced, where the energy flows, and the bill-crediting mechanism known as "Net Energy Metering".

  June 2017
 

Recommendations for Reducing or Banning Foam Food Service Containers

In this report, the Equinox Project examines the environmental and economic impacts of polystyrene (foam) food container reduction policies to help guide local municipalities in this effort. The report focuses on California and West Coast activities, but the information and examples can be applied in any area.

  March 2017
 

Southern California Rooftop Solar Challenge Guides

Guides for solar in Southern California cities and counties: Anaheim, Chula Vista, City of Los Angeles, County of Los Angeles, Long Beach, Palm Desert, Palmdale, Pasadena, San Diego, Santa Ana, Santa Monica

  February 2016
 

Residential Solar Rate Analyzer

The Residential Electric Rate Analysis Tool shows how the addition of a solar electric system will affect a residential utility customer’s bill.

  February 2016
 

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