California Assembly Committee Approves Bill Impacting Rooftop Solar Agreements

California's Assembly Bill 942 has advanced after significant amendments, now requiring that rooftop solar customers lose their net energy metering (NEM) benefits when their home is sold or transferred, rather than ending NEM agreements after a set period for all users. Critics, including the California Solar and Storage Association, argue that the bill breaks contractual promises, undermines the value of solar investments, and complicates real estate transactions, potentially reducing home values for millions of solar owners. Supporters, including major utilities and the bill's author Assemblymember Lisa Calderon, contend that the change addresses rate inequities, claiming non-solar customers are subsidizing solar users. The amended bill also removes access to the California Climate Credit for solar panel owners and exempts schools from its provisions. The measure has sparked significant public opposition and debate over fairness and the financial impact on both existing and future solar customers. The bill now proceeds to the Assembly Appropriations Committee for further consideration.