CA AB2460

Revises the Solar Water Heating and Efficiency Act to promote installation of solar thermal systems statewide, expanding beyond water heating to include space heating/cooling and other heat capture methods.

Sets maximum program funding at $250,000,000 from January 1, 2017 through July 31, 2022, with 50% of total budget reserved for low-income residential housing or buildings in disadvantaged communities.

Requires the Public Utilities Commission to implement program changes by July 31, 2017, funded through surcharges on gas customers, with annual surcharge rates established by customer class and exemptions for CARE/FERA program participants.

Establishes eligibility criteria for solar thermal systems including design/installation standards, certification requirements, 10-year warranties, monitoring devices, and compliance with applicable codes; exempts systems where monitoring costs exceed 2% of system cost.

Extends program obligations for publicly owned utilities to adopt and implement solar thermal system incentive programs until August 1, 2022, and repeals the article effective January 1, 2023, unless extended by later statute.