Solar mandate compliance with metal roofing

By Jenny Yu.  

Homeowners must consider durability, weight and energy performance when planning for solar. 

As California continues to push toward renewable energy goals, roofing decisions are becoming more closely tied to solar requirements. In the article “What homeowners need to know about the California solar mandate” by Trevor Underwood, DECRA Metal Roofing explains how the mandate affects homeowners and why roof selection plays a critical role in long-term performance and cost efficiency. 

The California Solar Mandate originated from updated energy efficiency standards adopted by the California Energy Commission, requiring solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on new residential construction beginning in 2020. In 2023, the mandate expanded to include additional building types such as larger apartment buildings and certain commercial structures including schools, warehouses and offices. The program supports the state’s goal of generating 50% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. 

Under the mandate, solar systems must be designed to meet a home’s energy needs based on square footage and location. For homeowners required to install solar, DECRA emphasizes that roofing material selection is a key consideration. Solar panels typically last 25 years or more, while traditional asphalt shingles often require replacement within 12 to 15 years. Replacing a roof beneath solar panels adds significant cost and disruption. Metal roofing offers a longer-lasting alternative, with life spans of 40 to 70 years that better align with solar system longevity. 

Weight is another important factor. Solar panels add hundreds of pounds to a roof, which can strain heavier roofing materials or aging structures. Metal roofing like DECRA’s stone-coated metal roofing is lightweight yet strong, offering high load-bearing capacity ideal to support the weight of solar panels.  

Read the full article to learn more about how DECRA Metal Roofing’s systems can meet solar mandates for long-term performance.