California becomes first state to require solar panels on new homes

The changes, which would go into effect in 2020, update the building code to require all new homes be equipped with the renewable energy technology.

Homebuilders will have to spend between $8,000 and $12,000 per house, but the commission says it will save homeowners around $80 a month on heating, cooling and lighting bills.

The state is already the nation’s leader in solar power. California law requires that at least half of the state’s electricity come from non-carbon-producing sources by 2030.