California Taxpayers to Foot $8.5 Billion Bill for Rooftop Solar Subsidies

Californians are facing a bill of $8.5 billion in rooftop solar power subsidies following an overhaul of the state’s subsidy scheme for the alternative energy source. According to a Reuters report, the California Public Utilities Commission two years ago overhauled its subsidy regime for rooftop solar, making the installations less attractive by offering lower rates for the electricity their owners sell into the grid. Yet those who had signed up for the subsidies before that year will continue to receive their higher rates, while Californians…