Full Breakdown
Allegations of Misappropriation in California Solar Panel Program
2/27/2026, 10:34:28 AM
Overview of the Allegations
CAL DOGE has alleged that nearly $1 billion intended for California's Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH) program has been misappropriated, with approximately $928 million reportedly redirected towards Democratic voter registration and activism efforts. The SOMAH program, established by Assembly Bill 693 in 2015, was designed to fund solar panel installations in apartment buildings, utilizing proceeds from cap-and-trade auctions.
Funding and Program Structure
Since its inception, SOMAH has been allocated up to $100 million annually. However, CAL DOGE claims that only 269 projects have been completed, costing a total of $72 million. Republican gubernatorial candidate Steve Hilton has voiced concerns over the alleged misallocation of funds, stating, “$928 million has been stolen. Your money... It is an absolute scandal.” Hilton's remarks highlight a growing frustration among critics regarding the program's financial transparency and effectiveness.
Involvement of Partner Organizations
The allegations further implicate several organizations involved in the SOMAH program. GRID Alternatives, a non-profit, serves as a key program administrator, while the California Environmental Justice Alliance (CEJA) is identified as a community-based coordinating entity. CAL DOGE claims that these organizations have engaged in "double dipping" on public funds, suggesting that they are using taxpayer money to bolster a left-wing activist agenda rather than focusing on solar panel installations.
Political Implications
CAL DOGE also points to CEJA Action, a 501(c)(4) political organization linked to CEJA, which reportedly aims to build political power and has been involved in voter mobilization efforts. The organization has published voter guides and endorsed progressive candidates for the California legislature, raising questions about the intersection of public funding and political activities. CAL DOGE argues that the structure of these organizations allows for public funds to indirectly support partisan campaign activities.
Calls for Accountability
In light of these allegations, CAL DOGE is demanding a comprehensive audit of the SOMAH program, particularly focusing on outreach and education spending, including payments to subcontractors. The organization emphasizes the need for transparency regarding how public funds are utilized and calls for accountability in the management of the program.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While CAL DOGE's claims raise significant concerns, there has been no immediate response from SOMAH regarding the allegations. Additionally, the Trump administration's decision to pull funding from GRID Alternatives in August 2025 has been noted, but the implications of this action on the current funding and accountability of the SOMAH program remain unclear.
Verbatim Quotes
- “$928 million has been stolen. Your money,” — Steve Hilton, Republican Gubernatorial Candidate
- “fiscal sponsorship structure and overlapping ecosystem is how public funds meant to inform tenants about solar benefits are indirectly supporting partisan campaign activity.” — CAL DOGE Representative
The unfolding situation surrounding the SOMAH program underscores the complexities of public funding and its potential misuse in political contexts, warranting further investigation and scrutiny.
