I am among the two million plus California citizens affected by PG&E public safety power shutoffs.  I understand why these shut offs are occurring; however, I want to take back my "power" and I am proposing that our representatives amend current legislation and provide additional funding for installation of solar PV systems.

California has a policy of promoting solar photovoltaic ("PV") systems, including residential solar PV systems; however, the California Energy Code currently requires interconnection of solar power with the electric utility grid.  In other words, most citizens and business owners who have installed solar PV systems do not control that power; it is controlled by PG&E and other utility providers.

I propose that the California Energy Code and other related regulations be amended to accomplish two goals; (1) no longer require interconnection with the utility grid and, (2) define reliability standards.

Additional funding should also be provided to make it easier for even more Californians to install solar PV systems.

California has, by far, the most installed solar PV systems in the United States.  The California government, in general, promotes the adoption of solar PV systems and seeks to limit obstacles to their use.  That's great, but it is time for our Legislature and Governor to make updating and amending these regulations a priority.

If we band together we can show the rest of the country how "clean energy" is done!