Cash Back for Solar on Schools

California has more than 9,000 schools, with more than six million students. The California Department of Education estimates that kindergarten-through-grade 12 schools spend $132 per student each year in energy costs.

By installing energy improvements such as solar electricity systems, existing schools can often cut those energy costs by 15 to 20 percent, freeing up operating capital for other, more valuable purposes like more teachers and books.

Solar energy is one of our state's most abundant - and least utilized - renewable resources. Under the California Solar Initiative, tax-exempt agencies like schools are eligible for an up-front cash incentive of up to $3.25/watt, and a performance-based incentive of up to $0.50/kilowatt hour (kWh) for installed solar PV systems.

A solar PV system installed on a school offers students a wonderful hands-on opportunity to study renewable energy and saves the school money on energy bills.

Learn more about your eligibility and how the incentive process works.

Solar Panels are Reliable

Today, thousands of Californians are powering their homes and businesses with solar electric systems. Systems installed under California Solar Initiative include contractor warranties that give you peace of mind. Modern low-profile solar arrays complement most roofs, and installation is simple. With minimal maintenance, you can expect at least 20 years of energy production from a free and renewable energy source. Today, hundreds of Californians are powering their homes and businesses with solar electric systems.

Savings on Your Energy Bill

A solar electric system, combined with energy efficiency improvements, can substantially reduce a school's electric bill. Click here to learn how solar and energy efficiency can save your school money.

Getting Started

Click here to learn How to Apply.

A number of California schools are leading the way to promote solar power in their communities.

We welcome information from California schools that are teaching students to Go Solar! Please send those updates to arr@cpuc.ca.gov

Other Resources

• Recommended Best Design Practices for All New Public Schools, California Energy Commission report 400-03-019C, September 2003. (PDF file, 28 pgs, 228 kilobytes).


• Advanced HVAC Systems for Improving the Indoor Environmental Quality and Energy Performance of California K-12 Schools, California Energy Commission report CEC-500-2007-006, February 2007. (PDF file, 80 pgs, 680 kilobytes).


• Daylighting in Schools: Reanalysis Report, California Energy Commission report P500-03-082-A-03, November 2003. (PDF file, 105 pgs, 745 kilobytes).