(a) The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:

1. (1) There is insufficient information available to fully realize the potential of solar photovoltaic energy generation to serve low-income customers, including those in disadvantaged communities.
2. (2) There is insufficient understanding of the barriers to access for low-income customers to all forms of renewable energy being generated in the state.
3. (3) There is insufficient understanding of the barriers to access for low-income customers to energy efficiency investments.
4. (4) There is insufficient understanding of the barriers to access for low-income customers to zero-emission and near-zero-emission transportation options.

(b) On or before January 1, 2017, the commission, with input from relevant state agencies and the public, shall conduct and complete a study on both of the following:

1. (1) Barriers to, and opportunities for, solar photovoltaic energy generation as well as barriers to, and opportunities for, access to other renewable energy by low-income customers.
2. (2) Barriers to contracting opportunities for local small businesses in disadvantaged communities.