California is nothing if not solar-friendly. With an abundance of sun and the state’s rush to implement clean energy, it’s a perfect time for homeowners to enjoy the benefits of going solar. Let’s take a deeper dive into all the reasons that solar is a worthwhile investment for homes in California.
Benefits of Going Solar
The number one factor that drives most homeowners to switch to solar energy is dealing with the high electricity rates. Knowing that you can save money on this significant monthly cost is incentive enough for many homeowners. Other benefits of installing solar in California include:
- Protection from blackouts with solar storage
- Increased home value
- Potentially eliminated electric bills
Additionally, the federal tax credit as part of the Inflation Reduction Act can save you 30% on the cost of installation. Also, California offers multiple statewide rebates and a property tax exclusion for installing a solar system. Your local utility may also offer smaller incentives that can further reduce the investment required by you. All in all, California is working to make going solar easier and more affordable for all homeowners.
What NEM Means for You
One of the biggest advantages of converting your home to solar energy in California is net energy metering (NEM), a policy that has undergone a few iterations. NEM allows you to sell excess power your home generates back to your utility at rates that vary due to multiple factors. The rates change based on time of use and statewide need, so while others are penalized for withdrawing energy from the grid during peak usage, your system will benefit from exporting during high-price periods.
Because NEM now sets rates to pay more for electricity pushed back onto the grid during high-need periods, like in the afternoon and at night, homeowners have a chance to cover the cost of their installation by including a solar storage solution and banking excess daytime energy to send back when rates are at their peak. Opting to include solar storage in your energy system also offers the major benefit of being able to run your home during power outages, making it a double advantage for convenience and savings.
California Solar: Well Worth the Investment
In the end, the answer to whether solar panels are worth it in California is a resounding “yes.” At Simply Solar, we are here to help you make the switch to solar energy so that you can start enjoying all the benefits that come with it.
To get started on your switch to solar or learn more about the process, schedule a solar consultation with Simply Solar by calling our team at (707) 285-7037.
