California to expand solar power use

Thanks to a bold new plan (and solid investment of $2.9 billion) California is set to become the third largest producer in the world of solar power behind Japan and Germany. Given the cost of our dependence on fossil fuels (mostly coming from foreign countries), I think that's one of the smartest decisions I've heard of in a while.

The "California Solar Initiative," backed by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, aims to add 3,000 megawatts of solar energy over 11 years through the installation of 1 million rooftop solar energy systems on homes, businesses, farms, schools and public buildings.
[...]
Solar spending could save California utility customers an estimated $9 billion from a reduced need to build new power plants and purchase electricity supplies during high demand days in the summer, according to a CPUC report.
[...]
The Republican governor's energy goals call for making renewable energy like solar and wind power 20 percent of California's electricity resources by 2017.

Good for him. For once I agree with something a Republican wants to do.