On March 26, the Lancaster, California, City Council passed an ordinance as part of the city’s zoning code that will require new homes to feature solar energy solutions, making it the first U.S. metro to push this kind of initiative forward.

According to Greentech Media, a leading industry news source, the new regulation states that housing developers must implement a solar system of 1 to 1.5 kilowatts in all residential homes built on lots of 7,000 square feet or more. The source compares this to pre-established provisions indicating that properties must meet minimum parking space requirements.

Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris told Greentech Media that the city expects to see more than 200 new homes built in 2013, which will translate to at least 200 additional kilowatts of rooftop solar energy. At the City Council meeting, the Mayor told attendees that he wants the metro – which has a population of 150,000 – to lead the world in solar power.

“Lancaster is already strongly committed to furthering green energy and reducing our carbon footprint,” Parris said in a press statement. “However, to truly establish ourselves as the alternative energy capital of the world, we must continue to take a progressive approach.”

It’s encouraging to see that the Golden State – which has already shown record growth in the solar market over the last year – is continuing its efforts to use renewable power resources. If you live in the San Francisco Bay Area and are interested in hearing more about how residential solar energy solutions can benefit you, contact West Coast Solar for an in-home assessment at 925-516-3900. Our knowledgeable staff can take you step by step through a fully integrated construction process.