California Alternative Energy
Which are the most used Alternative Energy technologies used in California?
Are energy consumers offered Alternative Energy in California?
Is California Alternative Energy consumption causing the government to look at Green Energy?
California's solar dominance, in one graph
The Golden State boasts almost half of the nation’s overall solar capacity, new federal government data show. Arizona, which is generally sunnier, is second, but way behind. New Jersey, which is generally not sunnier, is third. Ref. Source 8k.
More cities, counties choosing green energy
Cities and counties in California are pursuing or exploring a public energy program that allows elected officials to take the authority to buy and sell power away from utilities and offer ratepayers up to 100 percent renewable energy. Ref. Source 2r.
I rather doubt there would be a requirement that the things be functional at all times.
That said, if they're there, the home owners would be foolish not to make use of the things. The cost of solar is almost entirely bound up in the panels themselves. Once that's done, its pretty much pure profit/savings.