[Blarg]

[ QUOTE ]
If I recall this right, California has some kind of law enforcing measures for cleaner energy solutions. I don't remember the details, but I know that it involves the majors. I am guessing when these solar roofs become popular, Edison will have a monopoly on it as well.

How do they blast the water into the generator? Is this a valve system built of from water pressure? I have some vision of them having to plug this device into a wall socket somewhere.

[/ QUOTE ]

This varies city by city. Some California cities mandate, for new construction, certain types of materials, usage of certain types of lightbulbs, toilets, heating and AC, etc. Sometimes places that are already built are not similarly burdened, or only made to install conforming products during a renovation.

There are also rebates and tax credits for voluntary use of certain products, like refrigerators, washers/dryers, light bulbs, etc. Some things, like energy-efficient lightbulbs, are even given out for free.