This month’s CACE call featured an important conversation on debunking one of the most persistent myths in California energy policy: the claim that rooftop solar creates an $8.5 billion “cost shift.”
Dr. Richard McCann, Partner at M Cubed, walked members through the real numbers, demonstrating how this widely circulated figure is not only misleading, but off by nearly $10 billion. In fact, rooftop solar saves ratepayers approximately $1.5 billion each year, offering significant value while supporting clean energy, grid resilience, and community empowerment.
This discussion was especially relevant as state agencies, utilities, and advocates continue to debate the role of distributed solar in California’s affordability crisis. Understanding the actual data equips CACE members to push back against harmful narratives and champion fair, community-centered energy policy.
Key topics included:
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Debunking the solar “cost shift” myth and why the CPUC’s Public Advocate Office analysis is flawed
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How rooftop solar saves ratepayers money and reduces long-term system costs
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Implications for energy affordability and community power
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How CACE members can use accurate data to advocate for stronger distributed energy policies
Speaker Bio
Dr. Richard McCann – Partner, M Cubed
Dr. McCann is an economist and energy policy expert with decades of experience analyzing California’s electricity system. His work focuses on the cost-benefit impacts of distributed energy resources, market structures, and regulatory policy. His research has helped shape statewide understanding of energy affordability and the true value of rooftop solar.
A recording of this presentation is now available here. You can access all CACE videos at our YouTube channel, here.