Solar FAQ

California homeowners typically save 50-80% on their electric bills with solar. The exact amount depends on your monthly bill, roof orientation, system size, and available incentives. On average, a $250/month electric bill translates to approximately $15,000-$25,000 in savings over 25 years. Use our savings calculator for a personalized estimate.

The federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows homeowners to deduct 30% of the cost of installing a solar energy system from their federal taxes. For a $25,000 system, that's a $7,500 tax credit. The 30% rate is locked in through 2032. You need to have sufficient tax liability to claim the full credit, but it can be carried forward to future years.

Yes. Many California homeowners qualify for $0-down solar programs, including solar loans and power purchase agreements (PPAs). With a $0-down solar loan, you finance the system and pay it off with the money you save on electric bills. Most homeowners see net savings from day one — meaning their monthly loan payment is less than their old electric bill.

Net Energy Metering (NEM) allows solar homeowners to send excess electricity back to the grid and receive credits on their bill. California's current program, NEM 3.0, provides lower export rates than previous versions but still offers significant value. Solar systems paired with battery storage maximize savings under NEM 3.0 by storing excess energy for use during peak-rate hours.

Solar panels are designed to last 25-30+ years. Most manufacturers offer 25-year warranties guaranteeing at least 80-85% of original output. Inverters typically need replacement after 10-15 years, though modern microinverters can last 25 years. Battery systems generally last 10-15 years with warranties of 10 years.

Standard grid-tied solar systems shut off during a power outage for safety reasons. To have power during outages, you need a solar battery storage system (like a Tesla Powerwall) or a hybrid inverter with islanding capability. Battery storage also maximizes your savings under NEM 3.0 by letting you use stored solar energy during peak-rate hours.

South-facing roofs produce the most energy, followed by west and east. North-facing roofs are least ideal. The ideal roof angle is 30-35 degrees, though solar works on flat roofs and various pitches. Shading from trees, chimneys, or nearby buildings can reduce output. During your free consultation, we analyze your roof's sun exposure using satellite imagery.

Yes, you typically need to own your home to install solar panels. Renters can explore community solar programs, which allow multiple participants to benefit from a shared solar installation. If you own your home but are still paying your mortgage, you can still go solar — the system becomes an asset that can increase your property value.

The actual installation typically takes 1-2 days for a residential system. However, the full process from signing to activation usually takes 4-8 weeks, including system design, permitting, installation, utility inspection, and permission to operate (PTO). We handle all paperwork and permits for you.

Yes. Multiple studies show that homes with solar panels sell for more than comparable homes without solar. According to Zillow, solar homes sell for about 4.1% more on average. In California, the Property Tax Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems means your property taxes won't increase due to the added value of your solar system.

If you own your solar system, it transfers with the home — the new buyer benefits from lower electric bills, and the system adds to your home's resale value. If you have a solar loan, you can pay it off at closing or transfer it to the buyer (subject to lender approval). Solar leases and PPAs require the new buyer to assume the agreement.

Buying solar (cash or loan) provides the best long-term savings because you own the system and keep all tax credits and incentives. Leasing or PPAs offer $0-down options with no maintenance responsibility, but the solar company keeps the tax credits and you pay a monthly lease payment. For most homeowners, buying with a $0-down loan maximizes savings.