By: Tamara Gilden

California is at the forefront of the nation’s green economy, pioneering innovative renewable energy incentive programs, creating green jobs and spurring economic growth. Our cutting-edge local, state and regional initiatives have made California one of the best places to invest in solar energy and green technology.

recent study of real homeowners by One Block Off the Grid shows that California enjoys some of the lowest solar energy installation costs, highest savings rates and quickest payback periods in the nation. California residents and businesses that “Go Solar” expect to save hundreds of dollars every month.

As one of the state’s leaders in solar incentive programs and green building standards, San Francisco is in a unique position to guide the state — and the nation — toward a greener future.

What can San Francisco do to make renewable energy more accessible and affordable?

In 2008, Phil Ting helped launch GoSolarSF, San Francisco’s first municipal solar incentive program. GoSolarSF has reduced the costs of green energy, created green jobs and stimulated the city’s green economy. Demand is soaring for renewable energy incentives in San Francisco, and investing in the future of our city’s green infrastructure would yield high civic ROI.

As homeowners and businesses seek new ways of reducing our carbon footprint, programs like these are important ways to empower San Franciscans to integrate renewable energy into our daily lives. But when it comes to the environment, our work is never over. We can always do more.

Sign the petition to support GoSolarSF and check out the infographic by One Block Off the Grid below (click the image for a larger version).

California enjoys some of the lowest solar energy installation costs, highest savings rates and quickest payback periods in the nation.