Need to get up to speed on solar or roofing? Ameco has deep reach and insights into the latest and greatest technology and innovations.
Environment California announced the winners of its first-ever “Sunlight. Camera. Action” video contest in which contestants submitted two-minute videos making the case for Los Angeles to become a world-class solar leader.
Congratulations to Alex Loverde on his first place finish. His video, It’s Time, reflects the fact that LA is a city in the sun, perfect for generating clean solar power, and that it’s time to go solar in a big way because, as the video says, “Los Angeles is a place of what’s possible.”
Winning second place is the video, Go Solar!, by Ms. Vargas’ 6th grade class at Micheltorena Elementary School, whose enthusiasm for solar is infectious.
Third place and the People’s Choice Award goes to the 1st grade classes from Plasencia Math and Science Magnet Center with their video, “Let’s Go Solar: The Solution is in the Sky,” which reminds us that “there’s so much to gain and nothing to lose” by tapping into the power of the sun.
New features include upgraded calculator with cost benefit analysis, and the addition of solar hot water and efficiency projects. Mobile access to solar information is also added.
(Los Angeles, Oct. 17, 2012) – Los Angeles County and Energy Upgrade California are pleased to announce the launch of the LA County Solar Map and Green Planning Tool, the next upgrade to the award winning LA County Solar Map website.
The site brings new visualization and analysis tools for residents and businesses interested in “going green” to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. Local businesses that install green projects can use the tools to identify properties with the best potential for outreach.
“The site provides a single source for information about solar electricity, hot water and energy efficiency projects, and personalized information about their property, including where panels would go and what their production and savings could be,” said Howard Choy, manager of the L.A. County Office of Sustainability. “It also allows the public to access Energy Upgrade California in Los Angeles County through the Green Planning Tool, and connect with solar and energy project installers.”
Recent updates to the map include an improved user interface, graphical ‘calculators’ detailing costs, savings and payback for solar systems, addition of detailed rooftop shading visualization for panel placement, a birds-eye view option for inspecting rooftops, mobile access to solar data and printable property-level solar reports.
At the heart of the site is the largest high-resolution solar model in the world, covering more than 3,000 square miles and including over 250 million calculations of solar potential including the impacts of trees, roof pitch and features, and nearby buildings. The new site, developed by Critigen, BKi & Renewable Funding, shows the County’s commitment remain at the forefront of improving the lives of County residents and businesses through the cutting-edge use of technology.
A major enhancement to the site is the new cost/benefit calculator, which estimates the cost, payback time, and cost savings over 25 years. Interactive graphs allow users to change the interest rate and system size and see the impacts on cost and payback. Users can then find qualified installers from the County’s Contractor Directory.
In partnership with Energy Upgrade California in Los Angeles, the new LA County Solar Map and Green Planning Tool also recommends and informs citizens on efficiency projects and associated cost savings to those projects like adding insulation, installing energy efficient heating and cooling systems, and insulating pipes and ducts.
A free iOS and Android mobile application allows solar potential to be accessed on the go, so that users and installation professionals can view solar potential in the field.
The first solar map for La County was launched on Earth day 2009 and this release will mark the 3rdversion of the LA County Solar Map.
“This application has evolved to provide citizens with new interactive tools that allow them to gain insight into cost savings and return on investment information for their solar rooftop, solar hot water, and energy efficiency projects quickly,” Choy said.
Originally organized as Link & Sun Solar Co., AMECO Solar specializes in solar system services including design, installation and repair. As a licensed energy auditor (# 4181), we can provide a feasibility study that encompasses solar and details the complete energy picture for an entire facility. As a licensed solar contractor (# 483280), we do not represent just one manufacturer of solar equipment and reserves its recommendations until after the site is examined.
We are approved by The League of California Homeowners. The League approves only those contractors that meet the following criteria:
We are a member of the Southern California Better Business Bureau.
We are a member of the California Solar Energy Industries Association (CALSEIA), and currently, its owner is a board member.
We are approved by the Southern California Gas Company to provide financing through the Fannie Mae program entitled: Home Energy Upgrade Finance Program.
We are a licensed Energy Auditor (# 4181). As an energy consultant, we can design a solar system to fulfill the needs of anybody from the do-it-yourselfer to the architectural, engineering and construction sectors.
We are a licensed Solar Contractor (C-46 – # 483289) and have been since 1974.
If you have any questions about solar installations in Long Beach, Torrance, Palos Verdes Estates, Redondo Beach, Lomita, Long Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, Huntington Beach, Los Alamitos/Seal Beach or San Pedro area, please call AMECO Solar today: 888-595-9570.
Solar photovoltaic panels can be installed on many different types of roofs. They can be flush mounted as well as tilted up. Whenever possible it is best to install solar panel mounts while a home is being re-roofed. Composition shingle roofs are the easiest to work with. Tile roofs are more challenging and carrying solar panels across them can be like walking on egg shells.
Solar mounts “flashed-in” during the roofing process will eliminate any possibility of roof leaks. It is also much easier to locate rafters when the roof is off. All mounts need to be secured onto the roof with stainless steel lag bolts bolted through into rafters.
Having structural attachment points “flashed-in” is a wise method of installing solar panels, and the future cost of removal and re-installation of solar panels can be avoided for decades.
Solar Panel Installation Techniques
The installation procedure below demonstrates how to mount solar photovoltaic panels on a sloped roof. This installation also shows how to incorporate solar mounts into a new roof.
STEP 1
AMECO Solar uses Professional Solar Products “FastJack” and “Tile Trac” solar panel mounts to structurally attach solar panels to a roof.
STEP 2
Align mounts on top of rafters, then pre-drill with a pilot bit to avoid splitting the rafters. The rafters can be found with a stud finder. Use a chalk line or laser sight to keep the mounts in a straight line.
STEP 3
Secure the mounts to the roof with stainless steel lag bolts. The roof on this house was brand new but looked sloppy, so a new layer was applied around the mounts.
STEP 4
Metal flashing’s were placed over the mounts and the layer of roofing was hot-mopped around the mounts. Metal rails are secured to the posts with 3/8′ stainless steel bolts.
STEP 5
Next we install the solar panels and connect them into an array.
STEP 6
The final step is to run the conduit to connect the panels to the inverter. This installation is a low profile, unobtrusive, clean, green energy making machine.
This installation is a low profile, unobtrusive, clean, green energy making machine!
Have any questions about Solar Installation in Long Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, Huntington Beach or Los Alamitos/Seal Beach area? Give AMECO Solar a call today: 888-595-9570.
Solar swimming pool heating is the most cost-effective application of solar energy. Unglazed collectors (solar panels), which are the simplest and least expensive of all collectors, are used almost universally for heating outdoor pools and spas.
The heating system itself is normally already required for pools, regardless of whether a solar heating system is added.
In Southern California, a typical pool season will cost in excess of $2,000 of natural gas to heat the pool. Installing a solar swimming pool heating system with a life expectancy of over 20 years, and with an average cost of $5,000 makes economic sense. A solar pool heating installation will save a substantial amount of money while providing a warm and comfortable pool.
AMECO Solar has found solar pool heaters to be one of the most cost-effective solar energy applications. A solar pool heating system will save enough money to pay for itself quickly and provide pool heating energy free for your enjoyment and use for many years. AMECO Solar’s thermal division specializes in designing and installing solar swimming pool heating systems in the Los Angeles area.
How You Can Prepare
To get the full benefits of a solar pool heater you must have an area for the solar collectors (panels) that is large enough and has the proper exposure to the sun. If you install the collectors on a pitched roof, the ideal direction should face south. You will need to add more collectors as the angle facing due south varies.
The collector area required will depend on the surface area of your swimming pool, the water temperature you wish to maintain, the amount of pool shading and the direction the solar collectors face. Typically, the area that will be efficient is 60% the area of your pool surface (length x width x .6). For less favorable solar collector orientation the collector area required may be as large as the pool surface area.
The only routine maintenance you will need to do is the same as you should always do for your pool, keep the pool clean and in proper chemical balance. It is advisable to shut off the water supply to your pool sweep and solar collectors if you will be adding pool shock treatment or excessive amounts of chemicals.
SOLAR PUMP:
In almost all cases where the filter pump is currently keeping the pool clean, it is not necessary to change it or to add a pump for the solar heater. The existing pump is usually capable of circulating pool water through the solar panels.
SOLAR CONTROLS:
Solar heating is completely automatic in a properly designed solar heating system. When your pool requires heat, the automatic control diverts the water coming from the filter to the solar collectors, if they are receiving solar energy. This continues until the pre-set desired temperature is reached or until no more solar energy is available. The solar collectors will preheat the water before it gets to the gas heater and the gas heater will use only the fuel needed to make up the difference.
OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE:
Operation of solar pool heaters are extremely simple. Just flip a switch on the control to “Auto” at the beginning of the season and set the thermostat on the control to the pool temperature you want. At the end of the season, flip the control switch to “Off”. If you have a solar system that does not drain water back completely the panels should be winterized by uncapping the lowest solar panel to prevent the possibility of freeze damage.
COLLECTOR LIFE:
Solar swimming pool heating collectors can be expected to last for at least 20 years.
LIMITATIONS:
Solar pool heating cannot keep up the temperature on heavily overcast or rainy days or during winter months. You may need to operate your gas heater to make up the temperature difference, if you attempt to maintain an unusually warm pool temperature. Even if you choose to use your conventional gas pool heater as well, the solar heater will still supply a large amount of free energy.
Have any questions about Solar Pool Installation in Long Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, Huntington Beach or Los Alamitos/Seal Beach area? Give AMECO Solar a call today: 888-595-9570.
Photovoltaic solar power is one of the most promising renewable energy sources in the world. Compared to nonrenewable sources such as coal, gas, oil, and nuclear, the advantages are clear: it’s totally non-polluting, has no moving parts to break down, and does not require much maintenance. A very important characteristic of photovoltaic power generation is that it does not require a large scale installation to operate, as different from conventional power generation stations. Power generators can be installed in a DISTRIBUTED fashion, on each house or business or school, using area that is already developed, and allowing individual users to generate their own power, quietly and safely.
Rooftop power can be added as more homes or businesses are added to a community, thereby allowing power generation to keep in step with growing needs without having to overbuild generation capacity as is often the case with conventional large scale power systems But even when photovoltaic power is compared to other renewable energy sources such as wind power, water power, and even solar thermal power, there are some obvious advantages. First, wind and water power rely on turbines to turn generators to produce electricity. Turbines and generators have moving parts that can break down, that require maintenance, and are noisy. Even solar thermal energy needs a turbine or other mechanical device to change the heat energy of the sun into mechanical energy for a generator to produce electric power. Photovoltaic power, by contrast, is generated directly from the sun. PV systems have no moving parts, require virtually no maintenance, and have cells that last for decades.
Have questions about PV Installation in Long Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, Huntington Beach or Los Alamitos/Seal Beach area? Give AMECO Solar a call today: 888-595-9570.
There is no better time than right now to go solar. The Los Angeles City Council recently endorsed a two-year DWP electricity rate hike.
“The Los Angeles City Council approved an 11.1 percent electricity rate hike over the next two years Tuesday, as the Department of Water and Power warned that more increases are coming. By a 10-4 vote, the council approved a new rate that will cost an average homeowner about $3.65 a month. Customers with larger homes or who use more power will see their bills rise about $18.79 a month. Commercial businesses can expect to see their bills increase $15 per month.”
Call AMECO Solar today for a quick quote and turn your utility expense into an investment – 562.633.4400.
By Susan Montoya Bryan
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Pick any stretch of road slicing through the American Southwest. The sun beats down on the asphalt like nowhere else and heat waves distort the landscape.
It’s here, in these open expanses, that experts say is a massive untapped source of energy that could meet the nation’s growing needs. But only if developers can get it out of the desert.
Even as renewable power projects get a boost from the federal government, a lack of transmission lines prevent states such as New Mexico — where the sun shines more than 300 days a year — from converting the obvious potential into real watts that can charge smartphones and run air conditioners thousands of miles away.
Transmission lines are key to developing the region’s solar resources. The problem is existing lines are maxing out, especially as the push intensifies to bring online more renewable energy. Building new lines can take years or even decades of cutting through a tangle of bureaucracy.
SOURCE: http://lubbockonline.com/business/2012-09-19/southwest-needs-power-lines-become-solar-hub
This event is SOLD OUT.
Long Beach, CA – September 10, 2012 – An informal workshop on how to use the sun’s power to benefit your home or business is being held on Thursday, October 18th from 7:00pm to 8:00pm at the Lakewood Country Club, on 3101 Carson Street in Lakewood 90712. The ‘Solar 101 Workshop- Solar Straight Talk’ will be-hosted by one of California’s oldest established solar companies Ameco Solar.
The workshop will provide truthful, no strings attached, “how-to” resources for individuals who want to consider solar for their home or business. Information will be provided on net metering; the available government incentives; the differences between using cash, leasing or financing; and what to look for when choosing a system. The focus will be to educate attendees well enough to avoid the solar scams highlighted in the October, 2012 issue of Consumer Reports.
There will be one hour a Q&A session at the end of the program.
The workshop is free, but seating is limited. Beverages will be provided. The public is encouraged to register before October 16th by calling 562-633-4400, or RSVP online at: https://adobeformscentral.com/?f=pO1hQ3XLN2vYmY-rHBlYZg
According to Patrick Redgate, President & CEO of Ameco Solar, “Solar is a technology that has the potential to help anybody who has a utility bill. We want to define in a no pressure environment and in layman’s terms, what going solar is all about and how easily it can be done.”
About Ameco Solar
Since 1974 Ameco has been dedicated to the concept that solar energy is the solution to our energy future. Solar energy is unlimited, non-polluting and free. We are committed to providing cost-effective and reliable solar systems and strive to offer the best components available. We believe that using solar energy is simply the best investment available to homeowners or businesses today, since the alternative to solar is just a never-ending monthly expense. Extensive Solar information can be found on their website: https://amecosolar.wpengine.com.
Jim Noss of Anaheim discusses his reasons for choosing Ameco Solar for his residential, rooftop, solar installation. After two years of service he is showing a 3400 kW monthly surplus and his monthly electric bills are in the negative!
Way to go Solar, Los Angeles!
“The Los Angeles Dept of Water & Power announced that solar power on rooftops in Los Angeles has nearly quadrupled over the past two years as residents and businesses tap into more of the city’s famous year-round sunshine.
After long opposing third-party ownership of rooftop solar systems and affordable $0 down lease financing, LADWP loosened its restrictive monopoly policy in 2009 — which has since turbocharged the Los Angeles solar market. 75% of Californians are now choosing to go solar with third-party financing, which has generated over $1 billion in economic growth statewide.”
If you are interested in adding a solar system to your rooftop please call Ameco Solar, the Solar Expert, to answer any of your questions.
Congratulations California, it appears you have passed the solar gigawatt mark.
Rewire is reporting:
“According to live data provided by the California Independent System Operator (CaISO), the agency that manages the state’s power distribution grid, the state of California reached a long-anticipated milestone this afternoon (as I predicted last month). More than 1,000 megawatts of electrical power is coming into the state’s transmission grid from solar sources, making solar the largest renewable energy contributor to the state’s power consumption — at least for a few hours. Statewide demand this afternoon is running at about 41,600 megawatts, so this solar milestone accounts for about 2.4% of total grid energy being used in California.”
Click the link above for the complete article.
“One of the holy grails of solar cell technology may have been found, with researchers at UCLA announcing they have created a new organic polymer that produces electricity, is nearly transparent and is more durable and malleable than silicon.
The applications are mind-boggling. Windows that produce electricity. Buildings wrapped in transparent solar cells. Laptops and phones – or even cars or planes – whose outer coverings act as chargers. It might even be sprayed on as a liquid. The promise of cheap and easy-to-apply site-generated solar electricity might now be a lot closer to reality.”
Easy to navigate and designed with the conscious of a homeowner looking for Solar resources; Ameco Solar is proud to announce the launch of its new website – www.AmecoSolar.com. The newly designed site offers quick access to extensive Solar information not commonly found on other, newer Solar company websites.
Right at your fingertips; through videos, financial graphs, solar glossaries, photo galleries, and several Solar FAQ sections, AmecoSolar.com offers serious answers to some serious questions thousands of local residents have about going solar.
“The AmecoSolar site is fresh looking, and packed with tons of social, interactive apps which I know appeals to a wide audience.” Ameco Solar President, Pat Redgate adds. “We want people to invite us into their homes through this site because it’s all about building a long-term relationship with solar enthusiasts.”
alifornia has long been a leader in solar energy adoption, and in 2025, the cost of installing solar panels continues to be influenced by a range of factors, from system size to local incentives and evolving net metering policies. If you're a homeowner or business considering solar, understanding the true cost of going solar in California this year is crucial.
Solar panel installation costs are typically measured in two ways: cost per watt and total system cost based on energy needs. In 2025, the average cost of solar in California ranges between $2.50 and $3.50 per watt before incentives. This means:
After applying the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), these costs can be significantly reduced. Additionally, state-level rebates and financing options make solar more accessible.
While system size is an important metric, many homeowners prefer to calculate solar costs based on home size and typical energy usage. Here’s how it breaks down for different-sized homes in California:
Smaller homes generally require less energy unless they have high electricity demands from appliances or electric vehicles. A home of around 1,000 to 1,500 square feet typically needs a 5 kW to 7 kW system, which costs:
The average California home falls within this range, using between 800 and 1,200 kWh per month. To fully offset energy costs, a 7 kW to 10 kW system is typically required, costing:
Larger homes consume more energy due to heating, cooling, pools, or high-usage appliances. A 10 kW to 15 kW system is usually required, costing:
California has some of the highest electricity rates in the country, with average rates in 2025 exceeding $0.30 per kWh. This makes solar an attractive investment since most homeowners can recover installation costs through electricity savings in as little as 5-7 years.
Not all solar panels are created equal. The type of panels you choose affects the total cost and efficiency of your system:
Higher efficiency panels reduce the number of panels needed, which can lower overall installation costs.
Roof type, angle, and condition impact installation costs. Asphalt shingle roofs are the easiest and cheapest for solar installation, whereas tile or metal roofs require additional labor. Homes with shading or multiple roof angles may need microinverters or power optimizers, increasing costs.
With changes to Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0) in California, many homeowners are opting for battery storage to maximize energy savings. A solar battery system (like Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery) can cost $8,000 - $15,000 per battery but allows homeowners to store excess energy for later use, reducing reliance on the grid.
Homeowners can install solar through multiple financing options:
Investing in solar energy is not just about reducing monthly bills—it’s about long-term financial benefits. Over 25 years, a solar system can save a California homeowner between $40,000 and $100,000 in electricity costs, depending on system size and energy usage.
For example:
With financing options and rebates, the payback period ranges between 5-9 years, after which homeowners enjoy nearly free electricity.
Absolutely. While upfront costs vary based on system size, home energy use, and location, the long-term savings make solar a smart financial decision in 2025. California’s high electricity rates, combined with federal incentives and the push for battery storage, make it one of the best states to invest in solar power.
If you’re considering going solar, now is the time to schedule a free consultation with Ameco Solar to find the best system for your home. Whether you’re looking for grid independence or simply lower energy bills, solar is one of the best investments you can make in 2025.
California’s energy landscape is unique, reflecting a mix of innovation, regulation, and challenges. The state leads the way in renewable energy adoption, yet electricity costs can still be a significant burden for many homeowners. This guide will break down California's average electric bills by home size and utility provider, explore factors influencing costs, and highlight how solar energy can reduce bills.
California’s electricity market is shaped by its size, diversity, and commitment to clean energy. The state has some of the highest electricity prices in the U.S., driven by infrastructure maintenance, wildfire mitigation, and renewable energy mandates.
Each utility provider operates under a regulated pricing system, which includes tiered rates and time-of-use (TOU) plans.
Electric bills in California vary significantly based on home size, energy usage patterns, and efficiency measures. Below is a breakdown by square footage:
Electricity rates and average bills differ across California’s major utility providers:
Several factors influence electricity bills in California, including consumption patterns and energy-saving measures.
Rates are influenced by wildfire mitigation costs, infrastructure upgrades, and investments in renewable energy.
Consider TOU plans, energy-efficient appliances, and solar panel installation.
While solar panels can drastically reduce bills, most homeowners still pay a small monthly fee to remain connected to the grid.
TOU rates charge less for electricity used during off-peak hours. Adjusting your energy usage patterns can lead to savings.
Adopting solar energy is one of the most effective ways to lower electricity bills in California. By generating your own power, you can offset high utility rates and take advantage of California’s abundant sunshine.
Ready to make the switch? Explore our solar solutions and discover how Ameco Solar can help you reduce your electric bills and make a positive impact on the environment.
California’s electricity costs may be high, but with the right strategies, homeowners can manage their bills effectively. Whether it’s shifting energy use, investing in energy-efficient appliances, or adopting solar energy, there are plenty of options to lower costs and contribute to a greener future.