(a)
In conjunction with the issuance of bonds pursuant to Section 157.1, the department may, until January 1, 2014, enter into lease-purchase agreements, lease agreements, or similar agreements with the California Alternative Energy and Advanced Transportation Financing Authority to secure financial assistance for the acquisition and installation of solar energy systems, and to arrange for the payment of debt service on the Clean Renewable Energy Bonds.
(b)
The department may pledge the solar energy system property, or any interest therein, that is acquired or installed pursuant to this article as security for any payment in connection with the acquisition, leasing, or financing of that property or interest, subject to the purposes described in subdivision (a).