Measure B

SOLAR ENERGY AND JOB CREATION PROGRAM

WHAT DOES IT DO? Measure B would amend the city charter to require that by 2014, the city of Los Angeles produce at least 400 megawatts by solar power. This would be accomplished by creating a new unit within the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. The ultimate goal is to have 20% of the city's energy come from a renewable energy source (solar power, wind power, geothermal, hydroelectric, etc.).

Measure B, if passed, would also create a job training program to meet the expected demand for solar power. In addition, it would offer incentives to properties in exchange for allowing the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power to install, maintain, and operate solar panels there. There is also a proposal for an outreach program to educate potential participants about the solar energy program.

The DWP would be responsible for creating a timeline to establish benchmarks for the phased implementation of solar panels. It would also be required to create a financing plan for their project.

HOW MUCH WILL THIS COST? Measure B does not say how much the program will cost taxpayers. One of the provisions of the measure is that the DWP must create a financing plan for program start-up.

WHAT DOES MY VOTE MEAN? A Yes vote on Measure B means the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power would make a new unit devoted to installing and maintaining solar energy panels. By 2014, the program would have to generate 400 megawatts of electricity from solar energy. A No vote on Measure B would mean the DWP would not be required to create a department dedicated to solar energy, and would not be mandated to produce 400 megawatts of power via solar panels by 2014.

WHO WOULD BUY AND MAINTAIN THESE SOLAR PANELS? The DWP would be responsible for purchasing, installing, and maintaining the solar panels.

WHAT DOES THE LA TIMES THINK? The Times editorial board urges a No vote on Measure B.