Location: Fullerton, CA
System Type: Solar Electric (PV)
System Size: 19.3 kW
System Details: 56 SunPower PV Panels with 2 Central “String” Inverters and Online Monitoring
Year Installed: 2013

Electric Bill Before: $1,000
Electric Bill After: -$10.53

Clay and his wife couldn’t have been more excited to move into their new home and start remodeling it into their dream home. Then, they received a few of their first utility bills. The larger space and lack of insulation was driving their utility costs up to $1,000 and higher. They made it a goal to install a solar system and bring down their bills before the heat would hit in the following summer.

In May of 2013 they started talking to a few companies, AMECO Solar being one of them. Between the high-efficieny of the SunPower solar panels and our company’s reputation as a reputable, long-standing solar company, the couple chose to go with AMECO.

Though they were convinced of the financial savings that solar would bring them, they were very concerned with how the solar installation would look. They drove around the neighborhood to see other installations and weren’t too impressed with the results. One house even had a similar style to their own home, but the solar panels (installed by another company) were an eyesore.

Since aesthetics were important, AMECO made sure to design and install the solar system with this in mind. “We’re very pleased with how it turned out,” Clay explained, “You can’t see the solar panels from the street and most of the equipment is hidden, too.”

Throughout the entire installation process, Clay was in constant contact with AMECO Solar’s Operations Manager, David Saltzman. He helped coordinate the solar installation with the roofing company, pulled all the necessary permits, and worked with the city inspectors to make sure that the install passed Fullerton’s notably difficult inspection procedure. “David was fantastic, his service couldn’t have been better,” Clay said.

Now that the system is installed and running, Clay checks in on the production at least once a day. He’s found the SunPower interface incredibly easy to use. With a just few clicks, he can pull up a range of information such as how much energy the system is producing by the day or even by the hour!

Since he knew the solar panels had overproduced in the first month that it was turned on, he wasn’t surprised to see his electricity bill come in at -$10.53. Still, after months and months of owing Edison such high amounts, there’s nothing sweeter than to receive a bill and see that the utility company now owes him.

Typically, electricity companies are not big fans of Orange County and Los Angeles solar power. They see distributed generation (DG) and particularly Net Energy Metering (NEM) as threats to a long-standing business model that relies on a regulated monopoly to generate profits and earn income for investors.

Utilities Claim Solar Creates Higher Costs

The utility companies have argued that as more customers migrate to solar power, the fixed costs of running an electricity grid (things like maintenance and transmission) will be spread over fewer rate-payers. This will raise electricity prices, which will make solar more attractive and convince even more customers to make the switch.  And then, the price of electricity will rise once again.

Because of this belief, utilities spend a lot of their marketing and lobbying budgets trying to persuade policy makers and the general public that solar power is an economic disaster. One of their strategies is convincing people that NEM policies, which allow customers to receive a credit for the solar energy they feed back into the grid, act as a subsidy for solar customers at the expense of non-solar rate payers.

Winning the Battle with AB327 and “Net Metering 2.0”

Actually, the utility companies almost succeeded in eliminating the NEM program in California with the  introduction of AB327 using this exact argument. Thankfully solar advocates were successful in getting specific amendments made that not only protects the current NEM program but also extends the program for what is now being called “Net Metering 2.0”.

Though the solar industry won this small battle against Big Energy, we expect the utility companies will try to get similar legislature passed using the same argument that solar customers make electricity more expensive for everybody.

Research Proves Utility Claims are Incorrect

For this reason, we decided to revisit a study published by Crossborder Energy earlier this year that analyzed the effects of California’s NEM policies on overall electricity rates. It found that there was actually a positive effect for non-solar customers.

“On average over the residential markets of the state’s three big [investor-owned utilities], NEM does not impose costs on non-participating rate payers, and instead creates a small net benefit,” state the report’s authors. “In the commercial, industrial, and institutional (C&I) market, NEM results in significantly greater benefits than costs for non-participating rate payers.”

How does NEM help non-participating customers?

Solar Results in Financial Benefit for Non-Solar Customers

Most importantly, while Big Energy has claimed that solar customers in the NEM program cost non-solar customers big bucks, the study proves that it actually brings $92 million dollars in benefits to non-solar customers.

The report’s authors stress that the results of their study may not necessarily apply to other utilities, and more research needs to be done to understand how DG truly effects energy costs for non-participating entities.

Still, it seems clear that the story of how solar affects other customers is much more complicated than the narrative that electric companies are trying to sell. It’s important to note that utilities are invested in protecting their profits and shareholders, regardless of whether doing so might negatively impact their customers. When making choices about the future of California solar energy, we hope that the public will consider other priorities than those of the electric companies.

The Ivanpah Solar Generating Station, located in the Mojave Desert near the Nevada border, has completed its first synchronization, which is a major step toward full production. The plant’s operators, NRG Solar, announced the “first sync” on September 24, hailing it as a milestone for the California solar energy industry.

The Ivanpah solar thermal plant is the largest generator of its kind in the country, covering 3,500 acres. With a total generating capacity of 392 megawatts (MW), once completely operational the station will provide enough electricity to power 140,000 homes annually.

Synchronization Now, Solar Energy Next

“Given the magnitude and complexity of Ivanpah, it was very important that we successfully complete this milestone showing all systems were on track,” said Tom Doyle, President of NRG Solar, in a press release. “We couldn’t be more excited about achieving ‘first sync,’ and we share this success with our project partners, BrightSource and Google, as well as Bechtel, which is responsible for engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning on the project.”

Synchronization is an important part of integrating new power sources into the electric grid. In order for these plants to begin producing electricity for California rate payers, the operators must ensure that the voltage, current, frequency and phase angle matches that of the grid.

How Concentrated Solar Power Works at Ivanpah

Ivanpah generates electricity from sunlight using a solar thermal technology called Concentrating Solar Power (or CSP), which is different from the rooftop solar panels that AMECO installs on residences and businesses throughout Southern California. With CSP, thousands of large mirrors, called heliostats, concentrate sunlight and focus it onto a giant furnace in a tower hundreds of feet above the ground. The heat from that sunlight causes water to boil and generate steam, which spins a turbine connected to a generator. This technology is useful for utility scale power plants because it can run 24 hours a day with the use of thermal storage technology, whereas photovoltaic (PV) panels create electricity only when the sun is up.

However, solar thermal requires a massive system of mirrors that can track the movement of the sun, which makes it infeasible for use in homes.

There are three separate generator towers at Ivanpah. The first one, where the synchronization was performed, will deliver electricity to Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) under a power purchase agreement (PPA). Tower three is also contracted under a PPA with PG&E, while the second generator will provide power for Southern California Edison customers.

Ivanpah Achieving Clean Energy Goals for CA

In addition to NRG Solar, Brightsource Energy, Inc., Bechtel and Google all served as co-developers and investors in the Ivanpah project. It will help California meet its renewable energy goals, while also providing a source of electricity that emits no carbon dioxide and helps improve air quality. When the plant goes into full production mode sometime in 2014, it will be a major step in the state’s ongoing efforts to derive more power from the sun, and less from conventional fossil fuels.

The Solar Decathlon is coming up soon and will be taking place in Irvine, California, from October 3 to 13. Hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the competition challenges teams of college students to design and construct houses that are energy efficient, affordable and aesthetically pleasing. Most importantly, the houses must be powered by California solar energy and produce more electricity than they consume. Each entry will be judged in several categories by panels of experts from the renewable energy and environmental industries.

The goal of the Solar Decathlon is two-fold. First, the DOE is using it as an opportunity to encourage college students to pursue careers in alternative energy, engineering and design. Second, the competition gives the public a chance to learn about solar energy and green building techniques, as the houses will be on display at the Orange County Great Park for 10 full days. Attendance is free, and each team will be offering tours of their houses. The DOE is hoping the homes will demonstrate that energy efficiency, solar power, comfort and aesthetics are not mutually exclusive concepts.

This will be the sixth time that the DOE has put on a Solar Decathlon. The first event was held in 2002, and subsequent competitions have taken place every two to three years. There will be 20 participants this year, with students hailing from universities all over the world, including Stanford, Santa Clara, Czech Technical University and Arizona State University. We’ll be attending this year to root for our two local teams: USC and another team made up from students at Sci-Arc and Caltech.

“The Solar Decathlon is the Great Park’s first-ever international event,” Jeffrey Lalloway, Chair of the Orange County Great Park Corporation, said in a news release. “We are excited to welcome the students representing the 20 competing teams and their creative energy, innovation and talent as they prepare to build solar houses that will allow the public to see the future of energy, today.”

Each house will be judged in ten separate areas relating to efficiency, design and affordability. Judges will analyze the water heating systems, temperature controls, comfort levels and even the public relations campaigns of each team, such as the quality of their website and press releases. For each category, a score out of 100 points is awarded, and the team with the highest aggregate score from each criteria will walk away victorious.

Winners will be given name recognition, along with invaluable contacts and networking opportunities from the Solar Decathlon Alumni Network. Members of the jury include executives from the home building, architecture, interior design and energy industries, journalists, marketing professionals and public policy experts.

The winners of the most recent Decathlon, from the University of Maryland, will not be participating this year, so the competition is wide open. If you live in Orange County, make sure to set aside a few hours during the first part of October to visit the Orange County Great Park and tour the houses on display. We hope to see you there!

The California legislature has approved Senate Bill 96, which authorizes the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to collect revenue from the Electric Program Investment Charge (EPIC).

Funding from EPIC will be used to finance research, development and deployment (RD&D) of clean energy technology, including California solar energy, with the goal of improving the state’s energy infrastructure and saving rate payers money.

Pending the governor’s signature, the CPUC will be able to authorize the state’s utilities, including Pacific Gas & Electric, San Diego Gas & Electric, and Southern California Edison, to begin collecting $162 million for the EPIC program.

The approval of this bill was crucial to the state’s renewable energy future. Prior to its passage, funding for clean energy RD&D was set to expire, bringing to a halt the California’s leadership on this issue. As far back as the 1970s, California has been setting an example by requiring that utilities reinvest some of their revenue back into research.

However, after restructuring of the utility industry in 1996, there was some question as to the permanence of RD&D appropriations. At the time, the legislature put in place a system benefits charge, which would be used to provide a minimum level of funding. This charge expired in 2012.

Senate Bill 96 ensures that funding for clean energy technology will continue until at least 2020. The California Energy Commission will administer 80 percent of the revenue collected through EPIC, while the utilities will manage the other 20 percent. Both institutions will need to submit plans to the CPUC every 3 years, and in 2016 the program will be reevaluated by an independent auditor to determine its strengths and weaknesses.

The EPIC will primarily focus on problems that represent the biggest obstacles to reducing California’s emissions and meeting its renewable portfolio goals while also aiming to devote as much of its revenue to RD&D as possible.

The approval of this program shows that California is still leading the way when it comes to clean technology and renewable energy. The outcomes of EPIC research could result in billions of dollars in benefits for utility customers and the environment, so passing the bill is definitely good news for our state.

The Great Recession has left a lot of Americans approaching retirement in a bad position, as many investors and 401K holders have seen their assets drop in value. Adding to this problem is the fact that interest rates are historically low, and one can only earn so much on certificates of deposit (CD) and other types of savings accounts.

Solar Panels: A Home Investment that Pays

Diane Hammond, a resident of Sudsbury, Massachusetts, found herself in a similar situation when she researched options for investing $30,000 to earn income for retirement.  Forbes explains how Hammond could only hope for an interest rate on a CD of about 0.4 to 0.5 percent, a low monthly income that couldn’t possibly support her when she retired. So, she looked for an alternative that would help save money and generate a decent return on investment.

Hammond has found the solution to her problem by investing in solar energy and pre-paying a 20-year lease on a solar electric system. The savings on her energy bills, coupled with renewable energy credits and other government and utility incentive programs, are far greater than what she would have earned from a savings account.

“I figure I’m going to pay off my original investment in about five years and make 20% on my money (in total, savings and [solar renewable energy credit] payments come to about $2,500 annually),” Hammond told the source. “I thought, ‘Wow, this is much better than a CD. I’m killing two birds with one stone – lowering my electric bill and getting money with interest.”

Retirement Planning for Orange County Solar Owners

While leasing works well for some consumers, purchasing a solar system is another option that can lead to great savings for future retirees. For example,  AMECO Solar customers Linda and Dan bought solar panels as a way to save money on their monthly utility bill and free up their budget in preparation for their future retirement.

Now that their solar panels are installed, they have reduced their bill to almost nothing and estimate a savings of $3,000 each year. Over the lifetime of the solar system (typically 25-30 years), their annual savings will add up to a significant amount and will result in an impressive 19% return on investment.

Find Out How a Solar Investment Works for You

Current and future retirees should consider solar installation as an investment alternative that produces a healthy ROI. Whether leasing or purchasing, solar panels could be a good investment alternative to traditional investments. For more information, contact AMECO Solar at (888) 595-9570 or email us at gosolar@th2.e81.myftpupload.com. We would be happy to evaluate your energy needs and show you how a home solar installation could give you a good return on your investment.

Last week, the Senate and Assembly passed AB 327 with a majority of the vote. Now, the bill is headed to California Governor Jerry Brown’s desk for the final signature. The bill marks some losses for the solar industry, but thanks to the hard work of CALSEIA and other solar advocates certain amendments were made so that the bill shines bright for solar as well.

A few weeks ago, AMECO Solar wrote about AB 327 and how it could negatively affect individual solar system owners along with the solar industry as a whole. At this point, there were two parts of the bill that were a cause of worry: 1) the future of the Net Energy Metering (NEM) program and 2) the possibility of a mandatory monthly charge for all utility customers.

One loss is that the monthly surcharge has passed. Whether you own solar panels or not, you will have to pay $10 a month for merely accessing the grid and using electricity.

It’s possible that solar owners will not have to pay the charge initially and will be grandfathered in, but the details of the “grandfathering provision” will be hammered out in the coming months before the bill turns into a law.

Amendments were made to the net metering portion of the bill that accomplished goals for the solar industry.

Current solar owners enrolled in the NEM program can rest easy for now. AB 327 was amended so that your contracts will be protected and you will be granted a reasonable pay-back period based on when you originally enrolled in the program.

Even better, the amendment removed the 2014 deadline of the NEM program and extended it so another 5,500 MW of solar customers can enroll in the program between now and July 2017. This extension means a lot for residential solar installation companies as NEM is a huge incentive for potential solar customers, especially as utility rebate programs are entering their last steps and closing down.

The bill also demands that the CPUC (California Public Utilities Commission) develop a new net metering program, which solar advocates have dubbed as “NEM 2.0”, by March 2014. While the prospect of a future net metering program seems like a win, it’s uncertain how the CPUC will design the program. Due to this uncertainty, CALSEIA and those that support the organization will need to be a constant presence at the legislative level so that “NEM 2.0” will be beneficial.

All eyes will be on California during these next eight months. As a solar leader in the nation, the solar policies and legislature that develop in our state inevitably have an effect on solar in other states. Once needed, AMECO Solar will request that our customers and other solar enthusiasts take action so that our voice is heard by state leaders.

If there’s anything that the city of Lancaster, California, is known for, it’s sunlight. The community located in the high desert north of Los Angeles county gets approximately 300 days of sun per year, which makes it the perfect location for widespread integration of solar power. Mayor R. Rex Parris has made it a goal for the city to be completely energy independent, or “net zero” as it’s known, within the next three years.

Among the various policies that have been adopted to make this happen is a law the requires new homes to be built with solar panels. The city has also made it clear that they will accommodate developments and commercial projects that promise to rely on renewable energy for power production.

“We would be the deepest well if you were to imagine that [sunlight] was oil,” Parris told CBS News. “And what’s oil but power? And what’s solar but power?”

Currently, the city derives about half of its electrical needs for solar power, and leads the state in terms of solar power produced per capita. Over six thousand panels have been installed on the city’s buildings, including its baseball stadium, schools and local malls. The increased reliance on photovoltaics has also helped the municipal budget situation. Deputy City Manager Jason Caudle states that Lancaster pays about 10 cents per kilowatt-hour for its solar power, a major improvement over the 18 cents it was charged by utility companies.

And contrary to popular belief that such aggressive renewable energy goals can be a hindrance to economic development, Mayor Parris reports that the city’s residents and businesses have been extremely supportive of the idea, as California solar energy has helped them make their companies more cost-effective. Here’s to the citizens of Lancaster and hoping that many cities follow their example.

Location: Los Angeles, CA
System Type: Solar Electric (PV)
System Size: 5.6 kW
System Details: 32 Sharp PV Panels with a Central “String” Inverter and a Wireless Display
Year Installed: 2007

Electric Bill Before: $450
Electric Bill After: $30
Reduced by 93%!

Townson and his wife had considered going solar before, but it wasn’t until they moved into a new home that it became more of a reality.

“When we moved in 2006, we inherited recessed lighting that consisted of 40 ceiling lights throughout the entire house,” Townson explained. Combined with an aging air conditioner and the usage demands of a growing family, they were suddenly looking at electricity bills upwards of $450.

It was then that they seriously researched solar panel installation. Todd Fanady, AMECO Solar’s representative, visited for a site visit and found an ideal roof for solar. “Todd was practically salivating when he saw our roof. He told me that we had the perfect location, perfect angle and more than enough roof space for a solar system that would fit our needs,” Townson said, “He presented us with many different options and really seemed to know what he was talking about.”

Ultimately, Townson choose AMECO from the three companies that sent him solar quotes. While he appreciated Todd’s low pressure approach, he also wanted to install with a company that had been in business for a while.

Their 32-panel Sharp solar electric system was installed over two days in the summer of 2007. Since then, Townson began tracking production with wireless display that came with installation. He would watch the production start in the morning as the sun came up and enjoyed seeing the curve of the graph increase dramatically as the day went on and more solar energy was produced.

However, one day in 2012 he noticed that something was off. Production would start off as usual in the morning, but then the graph revealed huge spikes instead of the normal upward curve.

He immediately called AMECO Solar and the team looked into the issue. As it turned out, the inverter was slightly malfunctioning and clipping production at peak times. Since Townson had purchased a 10 year warranty on the inverter, it was quickly replaced and installed at no cost to him. “The entire process was pretty painless and our production was back to normal in no time,” he said.

Townson is happy with the decision he made to go solar with AMECO back in 2007. As predicted, the cost of electricity has gone up since the system was first installed. While others continue to pay more and more for their electricity, he and his family are able to produce their own solar energy and avoid rate hikes.

You’ve probably seen the headlines. It seems every month the solar industry breaks solar records as more homeowners take control of their energy. But there’s another critical detail you need to know: the 30% federal solar tax credit is on a countdown. This powerful incentive has made going solar more affordable for thousands of families, and the clock is ticking. We’ll explain what this solar surge means for you, how you can still benefit from it, and why acting now is more important than ever for your energy independence.

Solar Power Shatters Records Across the Globe

It’s exciting to see that the solar movement we’re part of here in California is gaining incredible momentum worldwide. This isn't just about adding a few panels here and there; entire regions are fundamentally changing how they get their power. For instance, the UK recently shattered its own solar energy record, at times running its electricity grid almost entirely without natural gas. This shows just how powerful and reliable solar has become, proving it can be a primary energy source for millions of people. It’s a clear signal that the shift to clean energy is happening faster than many of us expected, making it a more dependable choice for homeowners than ever before.

The trend is just as strong right here in the US, even in places you might not expect. Texas, a state long known for its oil and gas industry, has been setting incredible new records for solar power generation. On one day, solar energy provided more than half of the state's entire electricity demand during peak hours. This isn't just a symbolic achievement; it demonstrates that solar can handle the strain of a modern, power-hungry grid. For us in California, this is great news. It proves that investing in solar isn't just about personal savings—it’s about building a more resilient and independent energy future, especially when paired with solutions like battery backup to keep your lights on no matter what.

Why California Keeps Breaking Solar Records

The Golden State added a record-breaking 521 megawatts (MW) of solar generating capacity from April to June of this year. This was an all-time high for any state over a three month period, and made up 53 percent of the total amount added by the nation during the same time frame.

The growth in California was fueled, in part, by the completion of large-scale projects such as the California Valley Solar Ranch near San Luis Obispo. The other 41 percent came from residential and commercial solar arrays on rooftops and private property.

Which States Are Following California's Lead?

After California, the next four states to add the most solar energy installations were North Carolina, New Jersey, Arizona and Texas. Many solar experts speculate that the increase in solar expansion is related to favorable state policies and more progressive energy policies.

California, in particular, has made aggressive efforts to reduce dependence on fossil fuel sources such as coal and natural gas. Other regions of the country, such as Arizona and New Jersey, have fostered growth of solar in their states with similar laws and incentive programs.

Texas Sets New Generation Milestones

It’s not just California making waves in the solar world. Other states are rapidly catching up, proving that the shift to renewable energy is a nationwide movement. Texas, for example, is quickly becoming a solar powerhouse. On February 13, 2024, the state’s grid, ERCOT, set a new record for solar power generation, producing an incredible 16.7 gigawatts (GW). At that moment, solar energy accounted for over 36% of the entire grid's power. This wasn't a fluke; it surpassed a previous record set just weeks earlier, highlighting the explosive growth and potential of solar technology even in states traditionally known for other energy sources.

The UK's Nearly Gas-Free Grid

The solar boom isn't limited to the United States, either. Across the Atlantic, the United Kingdom is also demonstrating what's possible with renewable energy. This past April, the UK didn't just break its own record for solar energy production; it achieved something remarkable. For periods of time, the country was able to run a 99% gas-free grid, powered almost entirely by renewables like solar. This milestone shows that with the right infrastructure and investment, it's possible to drastically reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and move toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future on a national scale.

The Driving Forces Behind the Solar Boom

This incredible growth in solar energy isn't happening by accident. It's the result of a perfect storm of factors, including falling costs, rising energy demands, and a growing public desire for energy independence. While California has long been a leader, the recent surge in places like Texas signals a major shift in how we think about and produce energy. This isn't just about large-scale utility projects; it's about individual homeowners recognizing the power they have to change how their homes are powered. The same forces driving this boom are making solar more accessible and necessary than ever for families right here in California.

Two key drivers are pushing this solar revolution forward: the decreasing cost of technology and the increasing strain on our existing power grids. On one hand, solar panels have never been more affordable, making the financial barrier to entry lower than ever. On the other hand, our aging electrical infrastructure is struggling to keep up with modern demands, leading to more frequent blackouts and rising utility costs. This combination creates a compelling case for homeowners to generate their own power, offering both long-term savings and reliable energy when the grid fails.

Record-Low Solar Panel Costs

One of the biggest reasons for the solar surge is simple economics: solar panels are more affordable than ever. In the past, the upfront cost was a significant hurdle for many homeowners. Today, thanks to better manufacturing processes and an improved supply chain for parts, the price of installing a solar system has dropped dramatically. This improved availability has been a key factor in the recent expansion of solar power. It means that the dream of producing your own clean energy is no longer a luxury reserved for a few but a practical and attainable goal for many California families. You can even calculate your potential savings to see how the numbers work for your specific home.

Surging Electricity Demand and Grid Challenges

At the same time that solar costs are falling, the demand for electricity is skyrocketing. Our lives are becoming more electrified, from the cars we drive to the appliances in our homes. This puts an immense strain on the power grid. In Texas, for instance, the state recently set a new record for winter power usage, crossing the 80 GW threshold for the first time. This isn't a temporary spike; it's a trend. As demand continues to climb, the grid's reliability comes into question, making power outages and price hikes more common. For California homeowners, this reality hits close to home, making the case for energy independence stronger every day.

The Growing Strain on the Power Grid

The pressure on our electrical grid isn't just a seasonal issue; it's a year-round concern that’s projected to get worse. Grid operators like ERCOT in Texas are forecasting that summer power demand could soar to over 140 GW by 2029. This kind of sustained, high demand pushes our infrastructure to its limits. When the grid is strained, utility companies often have to resort to rolling blackouts to prevent catastrophic failures. This leaves families without power, often during the hottest days of the year. This growing instability is a powerful motivator for homeowners to seek out reliable alternatives that put them in control of their energy supply.

How Battery Storage Provides a Solution

This is where the combination of solar panels and home battery storage becomes a game-changer. Generating your own power is the first step, but storing it gives you true energy independence. Recent events have shown that record solar power and battery storage can help prevent power emergencies, especially when the sun isn't shining but demand is high. With a home battery backup system, you can store the excess clean energy your panels produce during the day. You can then use that stored power at night, during peak-rate hours, or most importantly, during a blackout, keeping your lights on and your family safe when the grid goes down.

A Critical Look at Solar Legislation Changes

While technology and demand are major drivers, government policies and incentives also play a significant role in the solar landscape. Programs like tax credits and net metering have historically made switching to solar even more financially attractive. However, these policies can and do change. It's important for homeowners to understand that while incentives are a great bonus, the fundamental value of solar power remains constant. The ability to generate your own electricity, reduce your monthly bills, and secure your home against blackouts are powerful benefits that stand on their own, regardless of shifting legislation.

Navigating these changes can feel complex, which is why working with an experienced partner is so important. With over 50 years of experience in both solar and roofing, we've seen policies evolve and have helped thousands of homeowners make informed decisions. A solid solar investment starts with a solid foundation, which is why integrating roofing solutions with your solar installation is crucial for long-term performance and peace of mind. Our personalized approach ensures you get a system that’s right for your home and your goals, helping you feel confident in your transition to clean energy for decades to come.

What's Next for Pro-Solar Legislation?

It’s paramount for the solar industry and its customers to continue pursuing legislative efforts at the state and federal level. Programs like Net Energy Metering, rebates for California solar panels, and the Federal Renewable Energy Tax Credit need to be extended and renewed until solar costs become competitive with conventional power in the absence of subsidies.

Unfortunately, utility companies have stepped up their efforts to prevent solar incentive programs from being extended. Mainly because they’re concerned that their profits will decrease and they’ll lose control of the way residents generate and use electricity.

Hopefully, the state legislature can recognize that it is in the best interest of Californians everywhere, whether they have solar energy at home or not, to spur more growth in renewable energy sources. Then, perhaps, California can look forward to leading the nation in megawatts of solar energy installed not just in Q2 of 2013, but for many years to come.

Understanding the 2025 Deadline

While state-level incentives are crucial, a major federal policy shift is on the horizon that you need to know about. A recently signed bill will end the 30% federal residential solar tax credit on December 31, 2025. This change accelerates the credit’s expiration by nearly a decade, as it was originally set to last until 2034. This tax credit has been one of the most significant financial incentives for homeowners transitioning to solar, making clean energy more accessible and affordable. Its early termination marks a pivotal moment for anyone considering a solar solution for their home. The window to take advantage of this substantial saving is now clearly defined and closing sooner than expected.

What This Means for Homeowners

The takeaway here is straightforward: if you're thinking about getting solar panels, the time to act is now. To secure the full 30% tax credit, your system must be installed and operational before the end of 2025. Waiting until after this deadline means you’ll miss out on a credit that can save you thousands of dollars on your upfront investment. For many California homeowners, this incentive is the key to making the project financially feasible. You can calculate your potential savings to see just how impactful the credit can be for your specific project. Beyond individual finances, the policy change is also expected to cause job losses across the solar industry, affecting the very experts who help families make the switch to clean energy.

The Rationale Behind the Policy Shift

This policy change comes at a particularly challenging time. By cutting the residential solar tax credit, lawmakers are removing the primary tool that helps families reduce their dependence on the grid. This is happening just as electricity demand is surging and utility bills are climbing to new highs. A major factor in this increased demand is the rapid growth of energy-intensive AI data centers, which puts an even greater strain on our aging power infrastructure. For homeowners, this means the grid is becoming less reliable and more expensive. Investing in solar, especially when paired with a battery backup system, provides a direct path to energy independence and protection from blackouts and rising costs, making the 2025 deadline even more critical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there so much buzz about going solar right now? It’s a combination of a few key factors. First, the cost of solar panels has dropped significantly, making it a more affordable investment for many families. At the same time, our electricity grid is under more strain than ever, leading to rising utility bills and more frequent power outages. Homeowners are realizing that generating their own power offers a reliable, long-term solution to both of these problems, giving them control over their energy and their budget.

You mentioned a tax credit deadline. What does that mean for me? The 30% federal solar tax credit is a significant incentive that can reduce the total cost of your solar installation by thousands of dollars. However, this credit is set to expire at the end of 2025. To qualify, your system must be fully installed and operational by December 31, 2025. This creates a clear window of opportunity, and waiting too long means you will miss out on this substantial financial benefit.

If I get solar panels, will my power stay on during a blackout? By themselves, standard grid-tied solar panels will shut down during a power outage for safety reasons. To keep your lights on when the grid goes down, you need to pair your solar panels with a home battery backup system. This setup allows you to store the excess solar energy you generate during the day and use it to power your home at night or, most importantly, during an outage. It’s the key to true energy independence.

I’m interested in solar, but I’m worried my roof might be too old. What should I do? That’s a very important consideration, as your roof is the foundation for your solar system. A reputable installer will always start with a thorough roof inspection. If your roof needs repairs or a replacement, it’s often most efficient to handle that work at the same time as your solar installation. This ensures your entire system is built on a solid, long-lasting base and prevents potential issues down the road.

Since solar technology keeps improving, shouldn’t I just wait a few more years for it to get even cheaper? While it's true that technology is always evolving, the financial landscape is changing. The 30% federal tax credit, which provides a massive discount on your system's cost, is disappearing after 2025. The savings you would get from this credit will almost certainly outweigh any minor price drops in panel technology over the next couple of years. Acting now allows you to lock in this major financial incentive before it’s gone for good.

Key Takeaways

• Act Now to Secure the 30% Federal Tax Credit: The most significant federal incentive for going solar is set to expire at the end of 2025. To take advantage of this credit, which can save you thousands, your system must be installed and operational before the deadline.
• Gain Energy Independence from a Strained Grid: Rising electricity demand is making our power grid less reliable and more expensive. Combining solar panels with a battery backup system gives you control, providing consistent power during blackouts and protection from rising utility rates.
• Solar is a Proven and Practical Choice: The rapid growth of solar power worldwide, coupled with record-low panel costs, shows that it is no longer a niche technology. It is a mainstream, reliable energy solution that offers long-term stability and savings for your home.

Related Articles

• Solar Tax Credit 2026: What Homeowners Need to Know
• Solar Tax Credit | Industry Updates | Ameco Solar USA
• Solar Tax Credit 2026 Income Limit: The Truth
• How the Federal Tax Credit Works for Solar Owners

Now that you have gone solar and have a Net Energy Metering (NEM) contract with Edison, you will be receiving a monthly Edison bill that is different from what you are accustomed to seeing. We think it’s important that you understand what these bills are telling you, and hopefully this explanation will help you quickly assess your charges or credits.

On the first page of your new Edison bill, there is an item that has created a great deal of confusion. It is the item called “Net Generation.” This is the amount of electricity your solar system has generated that has exceeded your consumption; it is NOT the amount of energy that your system has produced in that billing period. The LCD display on your solar inverter will tell you how much electricity your solar system is producing right now and also how much it has produced since the first day it was turned on.

Edison has their Smart Meter in place only to measure how much electricity they send to your home, or how much electricity you may send back to them. This Smart Meter actually has no idea what your solar system is generating. It simply measures the amount of electricity that you take from Edison (when you are using more than the solar system is producing), or the amount of electricity that you send back to them (when you are using less than the solar system is producing).

Typically, during the daytime your solar system is producing more electricity than your house is using and you are sending the excess back to Edison for a credit. When the sun goes down and the lights in the house go on, the solar system turns stops producing energy and you are now taking electricity from Edison. Some months have more sunshine than others and in some months you use more electricity than in others. So, at the end of the month you may have either a credit or a charge on your Edison bill.

The summary of net charges and credits is usually displayed on either the 3rd or 4th page of your Edison bill and is highlighted in a square box on the upper right hand section of the page. Within the box a sentence states:

Additional information regarding your Net Consumption/Generation

• This information will show your cumulative charge or a credit as of the previous month
• Your current month energy charge total;
• Your accumulated energy charge Year-to-Date;
• Your accumulated kilo-Watt hour (kWh) consumption Year-to-Date.

This is important information and will inform you as to the status of your financial position with Edison’s billing.

At the end of the billing year (starting from when your solar system was first turned on) you will receive a bill which tallies all of the credits and charges from each month. If you used more electricity than your system has produced in that year, then you must then pay this total. If your solar system has generated more electricity than you have used over the year, Edison will actually pay you. It is important to pay attention to the information on your monthly Edison bills so that you are NOT surprised if you still owe Edison a substantial amount of money at the end of the billing year.

If you have any questions with regard to Edison billing practices, you may contact one of the Edison representatives who understand NEM at (866) 701-7868.

Rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems that deliver California solar energy to homes and small businesses are a great way lower or even eliminate utility bills, but each panel array represents only a small part of the overall energy infrastructure.

This has led many electrical companies, developers, investors and governments to press for the construction of utility-scale solar farms that can add hundreds of megawatts of generating capacity to the state’s renewable energy portfolio.

Projects like the Ivanpah Solar Generating Station in the Mojave Desert and the California Valley Solar Ranch (CVSR) in San Luis Obispo, California, promise to expand solar power in the Golden State, but these plants are difficult to get off the ground for a number of reasons.

The Ivanpah facility ran into delays because of those concerned with the native desert tortoise population. The CVSR and other plants often face heated opposition from local residents who fear the stations will create “visual pollution” that could lower property values.

On the other hand, rooftop solar installations on homes and small businesses face none of these problems. Though smaller in size, they can be constructed quicker and when adopted on a wide scale, could end up contributing to the electric grid as much as utility-scale projects.

If the number small-scale solar installation projects continue to grow, it will be good news for the economy and environment. Solar power provides a clean, renewable and steady source of energy unaffected by the price instability that plagues fossil fuels, and could help mitigate the effects of air pollution and anthropogenic climate change.

NerdWallet, a financial advice blog, recently reported on a study about the solar industry and market in all 50 states to determine which ones provided the best conditions for homeowners who want to install solar panels on their rooftops. There are a number of factors that guide someone’s decision to go solar, and while other states may provide certain advantages such as more sunlight or better tax incentives, it’s important to aggregate all of these measures to determine which one produces the ideal conditions for a photovoltaic (PV) installation.

NerdWallet used four main criteria in determining the best state for solar power:

Based on scoring for all four of these measures, California leads the way with its favorable regulatory, tax and natural environment that combine to create ideal conditions for any customers who are planning on going solar.

Fourteen schools in the Jefferson Elementary School District (JESD), located in Northern California just south of San Francisco, will be going solar in an effort to stabilize finances and dramatically reduce its carbon footprint.

The San Francisco Examiner reports that this $12 million project will save the district $17 million over the next 25 years, an important accomplishment given the fact that so many education institutions have suffered from major budget cuts and limited financial resources over the last several years.

The solar installation will provide clean, renewable energy to 14 schools while also producing energy for the district’s administrative building and central kitchen facility. This will reduce the amount of electricity that the district purchases by 85 percent. In addition, the use of California solar energy will prevent 1,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide from being emitted.

Funding for the project came from a number of sources, mainly a local ballot measure that authorized the district to borrow money to pay for energy improvements, as well as appropriations from the California Solar Initiative (CSI).

Additionally, the district has designed a curriculum that will promote solar energy to its students and educate them about the virtues of solar technology. Teachers will be given resources to help their pupils better understand how this move will benefit their schooling, and each school’s main office will be equipped with an LCD display showing data on energy production.

The JESD’s solar project serves as an excellent model for any school administrators who are hoping to implement a similar effort to help their district become more energy independent and financially stable.

Due to a sharp decrease in the price of solar panels, the cost of installing solar energy in California continues to fall. A new report from the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, located at U.C. Berkeley, found that the per watt cost of small rooftop photovoltaic (PV) systems with less than 10 kilowatt capacity declined nationwide from $12 in 1998 to $5.30 in 2012.

In California, the price per watt of installation for small systems dropped from $6.40 in 2011 to $5.70 in 2012.

The report credited 80 percent of these price reductions to the fact that solar panels themselves are becoming cheaper. Between 2008 and 2012, panels dropped by $2.60 per watt. Other factors, referred to as “soft costs” which include employee wages, permitting fees and other equipment needed for installations, remained relatively flat over the same period. The study’s authors pointed out that further reductions could be achieved if these expenditures were lowered through public policy.

“Soft costs are especially important from the perspective of public policy efforts,” said Galen Barbose of Berkeley Lab’s Environmental Energy Technologies Division, and one of the report’s co-authors, in a news release. “Unlike module prices, which are established based on global supply and demand, soft costs can be influenced more directly by local, state and national policies aimed at accelerating deployment and removing market barriers.”

Among the proposals that have been put forward by solar energy industry advocates and lawmakers are reforms to the licensing and permit process to make it more streamlined. There have also been calls to reinvest in the California Solar Initiative, funding for which has largely been spent. But even absent these solutions, it’s clear that a solar electric system is becoming more affordable and accessible to a larger share of the population.

Since the beginning of the year, utility companies have been making headlines with their efforts to eliminate the Net Energy Metering (NEM) program for solar in California. But now, the utilities are making headlines with a new topic: AB 327. This bill can also be seen as a direct threat to the solar industry.

Sponsored by California Assemblyman Henry Perea and backed by Big Energy, the two main goals of the bill is to 1) eliminate the NEM program and phase out the thousands of solar customers who are currently part of the program and 2) level out the tiered pay structure for utility companies including Southern California Edison. In order to accomplish the latter, the utilities would charge all ratepayers a mandatory $10 monthly fee or $120 annually. This fee is for merely accessing the grid and would be in addition to the charges for monthly electricity usage.

Those behind the bill argue that a monthly surcharge is necessary to pay for fixed costs lost to customers who utilize solar energy. Additionally, they claim to need the funds to maintain the state’s transmission grid and prevent outages.

However, solar advocates and those in the solar industry interpret the bill differently. In effect, the utilities are proposing to shift costs now incurred by high rate payers by increasing costs for low rate payers.

What makes this effort unusual is that this charge will be placed into law by the legislature, rather than through due process at the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). If passed, legislating similar fees will certainly be considered a path to success in the future by utility lobbyists, and may lead to additional surcharges for whatever utility stockholders believe is possible or necessary to improve the monopoly’s bottom line.

It should come as no surprise that energy monopolies are pushing so strongly for a bill at this point in time. In the last few years, residential “rooftop” solar has experienced explosive growth as many households have chosen to go solar and generate their own renewable energy.

The Net Energy Metering program — which allows solar owners to receive credit for any over-production — has been a large incentive for many to go solar and since the program was instituted in 2007, thousands of solar customers have signed up. By eliminating the NEM program, the utility companies will not only take away a major incentive for potential solar customers but will also renege on a contract that they already signed with those already enrolled.

In addition, the monthly mandatory fee will affect many potential solar customers whose incentive is largely financial. Many of those who are currently interested in solar are getting charged a lot for electricity in the higher tiers. Therefore, they install solar panels in order to reduce their consumption and lower their utility bill.

If AB327 does in fact pass, then the financial incentive to go solar will be severely reduced for small and modest users of energy, and diminished as well for larger users. The average ROI (return on investment) in the first year will decrease by as much as 10% for average consumers (from a modest first year return of 9.7% to 8.6%). Moreover, the payback period for a solar system (now around 5-7 years for most solar installations) will increase to 8-10 years or more, hindering many potential consumers from going solar.

What can we Californians do to fight against AB327? Join AMECO Solar, CALSEIA and thousands of solar supporters by calling your Senator (find out who your Senator is by visiting this website) and asking them to, “Protect All Net-Energy Metering Customers”. Then, spread the word to your friends and colleagues by tweeting, posting on Facebook or sending an email with a link to this blog post. The bill will be voted on this Friday, August 30 so be sure to take action today.

A major challenge for states like California that are trying to meet renewable portfolio standards (RPS), standards which dictate the minimum percentage of electricity that a state needs to derive from renewable sources, is to find energy storage options that are both affordable and effective.

The main issue is that renewable technologies such as Los Angeles solar and wind power generate a lot of electricity at certain times of the day, and none at others. Particularly with wind energy, the electrical grid needs to be able to handle massive fluctuations in electrical production in a way that it is currently incapable of doing. This is due to the absence of battery technology that can be scaled to such sizes that it can handle gigawatt-hours of energy.

Reuters reports that California Governor Jerry Brown told attendees at the InterSolar Conference in San Francisco that Californians can’t simply rely on sunlight for power, saying that “we’ve got to bottle the sunlight.”

Fortunately, many companies are entering a heated race to develop batteries that can handle large amounts of grid electricity. These include LG Chem, a large-scale battery maker, in addition to more well-known companies such as General Electric, and investors Peter Thiel and Bill Gates. Brown put forward a proposal that would increase the state’s commitment to funding battery tech, which many see as the principle obstacle to wider integration of solar energy into the electric grid.

The more progress these firms can make on this front, the more Californians will be able to benefit from this great energy source.

Location: Long Beach, CA
Solar System Types: Solar Electric (PV) and a Solar Hot Water System
Solar System Details: 10 PV Panels with a Central “String” Inverter and 2 Solar Hot Water Panels

Electric Bill Before: $35
Electric Bill After: $5
Reduced by 86%!

“Our electric bill wasn’t that expensive before we went solar, only averaging about $35 a month,” said Debbie, “We made the change to become a ‘sales tool’ for solar and hopefully motivate others to explore it as a renewable energy option.” With the couple’s solar electric and solar hot water panels easily visible from their corner home on the Alamitos Bay Peninsula in Long Beach, they have the perfect set-up to promote solar energy.

Joe explained further, “It’s a good conversation starter — many people see the panels and come up to ask questions. We’ve noticed a lot more homes in the neighborhood with solar since we had ours installed in 2006. While we can’t claim all the credit, we think we may have played a part in inspiring them to go solar.”

The couple has been happy with AMECO service from Day 1 when company owner Patrick Redgate visited their home for the initial site survey. He evaluated their shake roof to make sure it was in good condition and would hold up long enough to make solar financially viable. Then, he took the time to explain how solar electric would reduce their electricity bill and the solar hot water panels would provide the majority of the hot water used in their home.

Since they trusted his opinion and solar suggestions, the couple didn’t even look into other companies and signed a contract with AMECO. Afterwards, the AMECO installers arrived to install the two solar systems. “They were very polite and quick, the installation was complete in a few days,” Debbie commented.

During the past 7 years, the solar panels have not required any maintenance at all. Moreover, there has been no need to clean the panels either. They merely allow the rain to wash away any dust that might have accumulated in the past months and the panels continue functioning at peak performance.

Whenever questions have come up, they appreciate that AMECO is very responsive and calls them back with answers in a timely manner. “The best part about working with AMECO has been the people. You can tell that they are passionate about solar and really believe in what they are doing,” she continued, “It’s nice to be working with like-minded individuals.”

Debbie and Joe are hoping to invest in a plug-in vehicle soon, and are considering a Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid or the BMW i3. They are planning to install additional solar panels to offset the electrical use of the EV. Though they haven’t made up a decision about which car to purchase, there is no doubt in their minds about who they will hire for the solar installation — AMECO Solar, of course.

The two main arguments that are often cited in favor of Los Angeles and Orange County solar power are economic and environmental. By going solar, residents and businesses can reduce and potentially eliminate their electricity bills. In doing so, people also help improve the planet’s climate by decreasing carbon dioxide emissions.

Those two reasons alone are enough to justify widespread adoption of solar power for electrical generation, but something that often goes unmentioned is the way that solar technology can help boost public health.

The reasoning is simple. Burning fossil fuels not only produces carbon dioxide but other forms of air pollution that can cause serious respiratory illnesses in children, adults and seniors. Even natural gas, which burns much cleaner than coal, still releases toxins into the air that can exacerbate health conditions such as asthma and obstructive pulmonary disease. According to Scientific American, particulates emitted from fossil fuel power production is estimated to cause 59,000 cases of acute bronchitis and 603,000 asthma attacks annually.

While this is a problem in many communities spread throughout the U.S., EarthTechling, a clean technology news site, points out that seven of the ten worst counties in the nation in terms of air pollution are located in California. Much of this air pollution comes from the production of electricity, and could be eliminated through greater reliance on solar power.

When considering the merits of having a rooftop PV system installed on your home or business, along with the environmental and financial advantages, keep in mind that you’ll also be contributing to improved public health.

Electric vehicles and plug-in models like the Chevy Volt, Tesla Model S, Nissan Leaf and BMW i3 are becoming much more viable options for customers looking to save money on gasoline and energy costs. EV technology used be to very expensive, and though it still remains on the high end of the price spectrum for many drivers, it’s quickly moving in the direction of being more affordable for many families.

At the same time, solar power is rapidly bringing renewable energy to a wider market of customers in Southern California.

So, this begs the question: Can energy users who want to capitalize on these trends take advantage of the economic and environmental benefits of both? Does having an all-electric or plug-in hybrid vehicle increase the value of a rooftop solar energy system?

In an article on GigaOM, a technology news site, writer Kevin C. Tofel, wrote about how he had installed solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on his home and bought a Chevrolet Volt. He claimed that the purchase of the car had shortened the solar payback period on his PV system by half.

Tofel figured that three-quarters of the family’s driving was powered by electricity from the solar panels, saving roughly $2,400 a year in gasoline costs. At the same time, Tofel was spending $2,500 less on electricity for his home annually, for a combined savings of $4,900. While he had originally projected the break-even point on his PV system to be about 11 years before buying the Volt, the gasoline savings after the purchase meant he would hit that point at about 6 years after buying the solar panels.

It’s worth mentioning that the results for solar customers in Orange County and Los Angeles could vary from Tofel’s. He purchased a relatively oversized system for his house, plus he lives in Pennsylvania, which has different incentives than California. But, it wouldn’t be very difficult for California customers to outpace these results, as electric rates and gasoline prices in the Golden State are much higher than those in Pennsylvania.

If you are interested in purchasing a solar system to offset electricity costs of your home and electric vehicle, contact AMECO Solar today. One of our solar consultants will be able to run the numbers to figure out the size of the solar system that you will need and how long it will take to hit the break-even point.

The Brightsource Ivanpah Solar Electric Generating System, in the Mojave Desert of California, is ready to go online, and pending approval by the California Public Utilities Commission should begin generating electricity very soon.

Located off the Interstate-15 near the Nevada border, the Ivanpah solar project is one of the largest ever completed. Using 170,000 mirrors, sunlight is concentrated and focused on three 450-foot tall towers. Water in the towers is heated to boiling temperatures, where it converts to steam and spins a turbine that generates electricity.

The total power capacity of the Ivanpah project is 392 megawatts (MW), enough to light 140,000 homes. The process produces no carbon emissions and qualifies as a renewable energy source.

The technology involved is very different from the photovoltaic panels that AMECO installs on rooftops, but the goal is the same: To provide a clean, affordable energy source to California residents that will reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and stabilize long term energy costs. The project is funded by Brightsource Energy, along with support from Google and NRG and a federal loan.

The completion of Ivanpah will help the state of California meet its renewable portfolio standard (RPS) goal of 33 percent by 2020. It has drawn some criticism for the impact the project has had on desert tortoise populations, but biologists hired by Brightsource have relocated the animals to alternative locations where they can thrive.

By integrating more California solar energy into the state’s electrical grid, plants like the one at Ivanpah allow more Californians to reap the financial, economic and environmental benefits of solar power.

Whether the state of California and the country as a whole can move away from fossil fuels depends largely on the growth of renewable energy sources such as solar power, as these are the only solution that provides the electricity we need affordably without the pollution of coal and oil or the dangers of nuclear power.

Although much more progress needs to be made, two recent reports highlight the fact that things are moving in the right direction.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration has published a study showing that renewables, along with nuclear power, will be the fastest growing sources of energy over the next several decades, expanding at a rate of about 2.5 percent per year. In terms of renewable energy (RE) sources, much of the increase will come from wind, hydropower and solar.

In addition, NPD Solarbuzz, a market research company for the solar industry, put out a new paper that states the U.S. has passed the 10 gigawatt (GW) benchmark for solar generating capacity, trailing only Germany, Italy and China. The same report predicted that the industry would grow by 80 percent and reach 17 GW in total solar PV installations by 2014.

“The US has now joined an elite group of maturing solar PV markets that have accumulated more than 10 GW of installed capacity,” said Christopher Sunsong, analyst at NPD Solarbuzz, in a news release. “The United States is only the fourth country to reach the 10 GW milestone of installed PV capacity.”

The new head of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Gina McCarthy, was confirmed by the U.S. Senate last week after an unexpected delay due to political gridlock over the role of the EPA in regulating environmental impact. McCarthy’s position will see her in charge of one of the most powerful agencies in the country in terms of regulating business, and it appears she will continue to focus on issues related to energy consumption, as did her predecessor, outgoing EPA chief Lisa Jackson.

Because of a 2007 Supreme Court ruling, the EPA was given jurisdiction over regulating greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, meaning that the Obama administration could pursue an agenda of limiting production of carbon dioxide and other GHGs without rule-by-rule approval from Congress. As such, it could be the case that the regulatory environment will continue to favor renewable energy sources over fossil fuels such as oil, coal and natural gas, particularly in the realm of electrical generation.

There are many ways that the EPA could shift the country’s energy infrastructure in the general direction of renewable sources, including levying penalties for companies that emit too many GHGs, requiring higher fuel efficiency standards and providing more streamlined permitting processes for the construction of new solar energy and wind projects.

Businesses that are looking to improve their long term financial stability and avoid potential penalties for fossil fuel consumption should consider switching to a solar electric system constructed by Los Angeles area solar installers. AMECO Solar can design and install a solar PV system that will meet your energy needs. Contact us today for more information.

The pace of adding renewable energy sources to the U.S. electrical grid continues to accelerate, as the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s Office of Energy Projects released a new report on July 19 showing that 25 percent of electric generating capacity added in the first six months of 2013 came from renewables.

A total of 8,601 megawatts (MW) of new energy projects were completed in 2013. Solar  energy accounted for 969 MW of new capacity added in the first six months of this year,  which is enough solar power capacity to provide electricity for over 700,000 homes, and represents an increase of 3.70 percent over this same time period in 2012.

Renewable energy sources now contribute 16 percent of the total energy used in the U.S., with solar power generating 0.48 percent. However, something to remember is that solar energy is the fastest growing source in the country. A recent report from the Solar Energy Industry Association indicated that the total number of solar panel installations had grown 33 percent year over year for the first quarter of 2013 so it’s possible that this statistic will increase and solar power will make up a larger percentage of new renewable energy added in the coming years.

The growth of solar energy is good news for the planet and rate-payers. This technology provides a clean, renewable source of power that can help stabilize utility bills and improve air quality. A solar electric system will allow you to take advantage of California solar incentives as well as many local and federal programs that will deliver a return on your investment.

The California solar energy industry is thriving thanks to tax incentives and shrinking costs of solar panels for homes, but a new report from Environment America Research and Policy Center shows that the state has hardly reached full capacity. The study, entitled “Lighting the Way: What We Can Learn from America’s Top 12 Solar States”, provides information on solar statistics for what the report calls the “Dazzling Dozen”, the 12 states that produce 85 percent of the nation’s solar generated electricity.

California leads the country, having grown astounding 35 percent in 2012 to bring our total amount of installed solar capacity to 2,901 megawatts (MW).

“California’s leadership in promoting renewable energy sources must continue,” State Senator Marty Block (SD-39), said in a news release. “Our shared vision for protecting the environment and developing future technologies is essential to the next generation’s quality of life, our state’s economy, and setting the trend for the nation’s approach to energy security policy.”

California added 1,033 MW of capacity in 2012, 400 more than the next state (Arizona) which is enough power to provide electricity for 750,000 homes.

It’s possible that 2013 will turn into another record breaking year for California. Customers of Southern California Edison can still take advantage of the California Solar Initiative, a rebate program designed to incentivize residents to invest in solar energy, and solar financing is becoming increasingly popular with homeowners who are looking to lower their monthly utility bills. Contact AMECO Solar at (888) 595-9570 or email gosolar@th2.e81.myftpupload.com to find out more about going solar in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

When most consumers set out to do research about solar panels, they will eventually come across the Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit also known as the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This tax credit allows you to claim up to 30% of the price you pay to install solar panels, which discounts the cost going solar significantly. The credit has no limit and will be available through December 31, 2019 and stepped down thereafter.

Admittedly, the solar tax incentive is confusing, and many of our customers have questions about it. While AMECO Solar is not licensed to give tax advice, and we recommend that you consult with a tax professional on all tax matters, we hope that by explaining the basics of the solar tax credit you will have a better understanding of how it will work for you when you are ready to purchase a solar system.

Many people are led to believe that they will receive a check from the federal government after they file their taxes, similar to how typical rebate works when purchasing a product. However, this is not true! The tax incentive is a credit, meaning that when you file your Federal taxes you can claim 30% of the qualified expenditures of your solar system.* If you owe Federal taxes that year, then the credit can be applied and you will either A) owe less, B) owe nothing, C) owe nothing and have a credit left over.

Let’s look at these situations in greater detail. To guide our sample scenarios, we’ll imagine that Joe Solar paid a total of $25,000 for the installation of his solar electric system on his home’s rooftop. This amount qualifies him for a $7,500 Federal tax credit.

In Scenario A (where he would owe less) April arrives, he files his taxes and claims the 30% solar tax credit. It turns out he owes $10,000 in taxes, so the entire $7,500 is applied and he writes check to Uncle Sam for the remaining $2,500 that he owes.

For Scenario B (where he would owe nothing) Joe went to his employer and told him that he would be getting a $7,500 tax credit for the year. The employer adjusted Joe’s withholdings on his pay check so that he took home more money and would owe $7,500 to the IRS in April. In April, Joe applies the $7,500 tax credit to his $7,500 tax bill and owes nothing.

For Scenario C (where he would owe nothing and have a leftover credit), we find out that Joe only owes $1,200 in taxes. His tax credit covers this $1,200 amount that he owes and then the remaining $6,300 tax credit will roll over to any succeeding taxable years through 2016. It may be possible to roll any remaining tax credit past 2016, but it’s not entirely clear as reported by DSIRE.

While most people qualify for the solar tax incentive, there are some that do not qualify. Anyone who does not owe taxes will not be able to benefit from the tax credit. Also, it does not apply for solar installations on rental properties. That said, anyone who installs solar panels on an existing home, new construction or second residence will be able to utilize the solar tax credit.

While you’re in the process of purchasing a solar system, AMECO Solar suggests you consult your accountant or tax professional to figure out the specifics on how to approach the solar tax credit in your specific situation. While we are definitely experts in all things solar, we can’t necessarily claim the same with filing taxes.

If you are interested in a solar installation for your residence or business and would like to see how much you can save with the federal solar tax incentive, contact us at (888) 595-9570 or gosolar@th2.e81.myftpupload.com.

* Typically, “quality expenditures” include the cost of the solar products (panels, inverters, hardware, etc), installation labor and any permitting fees associated with the job. In some cases, you may be able to claim the cost of any re-roofing or electricity work done in conjunction with the solar installation.

Among the many advantages of solar panels are the low maintenance costs associated with the technology. Photovoltaic (PV) panels have no moving parts, and the relatively mild weather in Southern California means they’re almost never subjected to extreme conditions such as high winds, thunderstorms or hail.

For many years, the solar experts at AMECO Solar have recommended that our customers clean their solar panels by merely hosing them off a few times a year. This easy cleaning process combined with the intermittent rain of the area typically cleans the panels enough to keep the solar system running at high efficiency.

However, many solar panel cleaning companies are now selling more thorough cleaning services. They argue that if dust and dirt accumulates on the solar panels, then they will become less efficient in converting sunlight to electricity.

A team of engineers at U.C. San Diego recently called this assumption into question. They studied the efficiency of solar panels for homes that had not been rained on for a period of almost 5 months during a drought, versus those that were cleaned regularly. They found the systems that had not been cleaned or rained on for a 145 day period lost only .05 percent in daily power output. In comparison, those who had washed their solar panels at least once during this same time period ended up saving owners about $20.

“You definitely wouldn’t get your money back after hiring someone to wash your rooftop panels,” Jan Kleissl, a professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at U.C. San Diego and the principal investigator on the study, said in a news release on the solar research.

The study focused on smaller residential solar systems. Kleissl pointed out that owners of larger commercial solar panels might see more gains from routine cleaning, as these systems typically produced thousands more kilowatt hours more than a residential rooftop array. There was little indication that hiring private contractors to clean panels would be worth the cost, unless you live in an area regularly exposed to soot or petroleum residues that would cause collectors to soil more profusely than those tested in San Diego.

Moving forward, AMECO Solar will stick to our recommendation that our customers in Los Angeles and Orange County allow the rain to clean the dust that might accumulate on their solar panels and, if necessary, merely hose them down every once in a while. If you still think that your solar panels need a more thorough cleaning, please contact us about our per panel price.

Scientists from U.C. Berkeley have found that solar power could supply a third of the electricity needs in the Western United States if the grid parity goals of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) are met by 2050. The report, released the Berkeley Energy and Resources Group and the Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory, argues that the DOE’s current goals of bringing solar power to a comparable cost with conventional energy sources would lead to a displacement of other fuels such as natural gas and nuclear.

The study found that if public policies such as carbon caps and pricing are put in place, and if investment in solar technology continues, it could become a much more crucial part of the region’s energy portfolio. This would help the country reduce its carbon emissions and mitigate the effects of climate change.

“Given strategic long-term planning and research and policy support, the increase in electricity costs can be contained as we reduce emissions,” Dan Kammen, study leader and Distinguished Professor of Energy, said in a news release. “Saving the planet may be possible at only a modest cost.”

The DOE has a program called the SunShot Initiative, the goal of which is to bring the cost of solar power down to the equivalent per-kilowatt-hour rate of non-renewable sources by 2020. Doing so would lead to a major shift in the energy infrastructure toward cleaner technologies, but at the moment this is being done through the use of government subsidies that incentivize homeowners and businesses to make use of California solar energy. Taxing carbon emissions and capping output could make the price of fossil fuels reflect the true environmental and economic costs of these sources, thereby making solar power more attractive.

Although the financial and environmental advantages of solar energy are clear, this technology still only provides less than one percent of the total electrical generation in the entire country. As such, it is important for the solar community and public officials to continue communicating to residents everywhere how they can benefit from having solar panels installed on more rooftops and vacant land.*

It’s clear that this encouragement won’t come from utilities, who are concerned that if more people switch to solar power, it will cut into their profits.

A recent New York Times piece discusses this issue and how electrical companies are trying to slow the growth of solar energy, despite the fact that there is so much to be gained for ratepayers.

The main claim being made by utilities is that Net Energy Metering (NEM) policies, which allow payers to sell solar-generated electricity back to the grid and lower their electricity bills, will cause charges for other customers to rise as more homes switch to solar power. As a result, they’ve been campaigning for public officials to eliminate Net Metered systems so that fewer residents can enjoy the advantages of solar energy.

There are many reasons that Net Metering benefits all utility customers as a whole. It is recognized in a general sense that less electricity produced by fossil fuels will improve the health of anybody who breathes air. However, the reason that the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) instituted the NEM class for solar owners in the first place was to create distributed energy throughout the grid. They believe that solar panels help generate electricity during the hottest days of the year, when marginal or ‘peaker’ power plants fueled by conventional means are ramped up to meet higher than normal demand. This not only stabilizes power production when it is most likely to fail, but lowers the cost of building infrastructure and new power plants because the owners of the distributed solar power plants assumed the burden of building the generator, not the state or the ratepayers.

In fact, it has been estimated that the costs of NEM solar has been exceeded by its benefits to the tune of $92.2 million a year in California alone (Crossborder Energy Study, January 2013). This study proves that all ratepayers benefit from solar and that it does not adversely affect non-solar owners.

*AMECO Solar is doing our part to spread the “solar gospel” to Los Angeles residents and officials by working with Environment California, a state-based nonprofit, on their “Go Solar California” campaign. By highlighting the stories of solar system owners in the area, the report will continue to build support for the goal of 20% rooftop solar power by 2020 in the county. Our hope is that by proving how beneficial solar is for all residents, we can bring more clean energy to Los Angeles.

Proposition 39, which was approved by California voters in November 2012, contained two important policy provisions. The first one closed a corporate tax loophole that will cause the state to lose billions in extra revenue. The second provision mandates that money raised by the closing of the loopholes would be invested in other public projects, specifically energy efficiency improvements in educational institutions. The goal was to promote clean technology job creation while also helping local education agencies (LEA) upgrade buildings.

Half of the money raised by the bill was earmarked for the Clean Energy Job Creation Fund, which would be used to pay for upgrades to electrical systems and insulation for aging education facilities. The original legislative language also allowed for agencies to spend grant money on clean energy installations, including Los Angeles and Orange County solar projects. Although some have called into question whether the California Energy Commission (CEC) will still fund solar installations due to ambiguity in the language of later versions of the law, the CEC has never officially ruled out solar energy projects for monetary awards.

The deadline to apply for grants is August 1, so institutions that are hoping to improve energy efficiency at their facilities or invest in solar technology should submit applications as soon as possible.

AMECO Solar can help you plan, budget and install a solar energy system that will help your organization or educational agency save money on utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint. For more information, contact AMECO by calling (888) 595-9570 or emailing gosolar@th2.e81.myftpupload.com.

After many months of negotiations, the European Union (EU) has finally brokered a settlement with China’s Chamber of Commerce regarding the price at which it exports solar panels to European countries. The agreement could have consequences for the U.S. solar panel market, where a similar controversy has erupted over recent years about Chinese “dumping” of photovoltaic (PV) panels.

The New York Times reports that under the terms of the new deal, Chinese solar panel manufacturers cannot sell their products to EU members for less than 56 euros ($0.74 cents) per watt. Those companies that refuse to comply will be subject to a 47.6 percent “anti-dumping” tariff.

The deal was thought by some to be less favorable to the EU than had originally been hoped. The European Commission had launched an investigation into the Chinese practice of dumping in September 2012, hoping that it could pressure China into raising the prices of its panels, making European-manufactured solar cells more competitive.

The practice of dumping, in which China floods a market with low-cost panels, thereby forcing competitors to lower their pricing, has been controversial in the U.S. as well. The Department of Commerce levied a 31 percent tariff in May 2012.

It’s important to note that the cost of going solar will likely continue to fall even with the tariffs in place. GreenTech Media Research, a solar industry research publication, predicts that the cost per watt of solar panels will fall from 50 cents at the end of 2012 to 36 cents by 2017.

The key to wider integration into the electrical grid of solar panels for homes is how the costs of these PV systems compare to natural gas and coal power. A drop in the price of panels will have a positive impact on the availability of solar to residents and businesses in Los Angeles and Orange Counties.

Scientists at Stanford University have developed an ultra-thin, light-absorbing material that could eventually be used to create inexpensive solar cells. In a news release, researchers stated that the new material, which is only several nanometers thick and absorbs 99 percent of the light that hits it, is significantly thinner and lighter than any known material with the same properties.

By laying gold dots only 14 nanometers by 7 nanometers onto a wafer, the research team was able to “tune” the dots so that they absorbed particular wavelengths of light. They found that the wafers were incredibly efficient and could potentially be used as materials for a whole new class of solar cells.

“Our results show that it is possible for an extremely thin layer of material to absorb almost 100 percent of incident light of a specific wavelength,” Stacey Bent, a professor of chemical engineering at Stanford, said in the news release. “Achieving complete absorption of visible light with a minimal amount of material is highly desirable for many applications, including solar energy conversion to fuel and electricity.”

It remains to be seen if these wafers can actually be applied to solar cell technology, as these experiments only proved they could absorb light. The scientists need to run additional tests to see if the wafers will be able to convert the absorbed wavelengths into electricity.

One of the most exciting aspects of operating in the California solar energy industry is that there are constantly new developments in solar cell technology that promise to revolutionize the way we produce electrical power.

An interesting innovation was announced recently regarding dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC), which are transparent, low cost and can convert more sunlight to electricity when it is cloudy outside. Researchers at the École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne in Switzerland have created DSSCs that achieve efficiency rates of 15 percent, making them comparable to the silicon-based cells that are currently on the market.

Commercially manufactured solar cells, such as those in photovoltaic panels that AMECO Solar installs on our customer’s rooftops, typically have a power efficiency of 15 to 23 percent, meaning that approximately a fifth of the sunlight hitting the panel is converted into electricity.

DSSCs are somewhat transparent, giving them broader applications such as installing them on windows. They are also more durable, lighter and cost less to produce. While typical silicon solar cells need to be protected by a sheet of glass, this is not the case with DSSCs.

This technology is still in development, but it is thought that these cells will someday become ubiquitous in rooftop systems and lower the cost of going solar. In the meantime, solar consumers will continue to rely on photovoltaic solar cell technology to provide renewable energy to their homes and businesses.

With temperatures rising into the 80s and 90s, many homeowners in Los Angeles and Orange County are thinking about investing in a swimming pool. But for some, the energy expenses of operating a pool heater are so high that they do not to move forward with the investment. Fortunately, there’s a solution that will allow you to heat your pool without worrying about your monthly utility bill.

A standard pool filter pumps water through a solar collector, which heats it up and then allows it to flow back into the pool. It provides you with enough heat to make your pool comfortable to swim with little or no additional energy cost. A solar pool heater will reduce your normal energy costs significantly.

Although the typical solar pool heater will cost $3,000 to $5,000, the U.S. Department of Energy estimates that homeowners will see a payback period between 1.5 and 7 years, depending upon the fuel that is being replaced, meaning that the cost of installing a solar heater will be offset by fuel savings within that timeframe. Most of AMECO’s solar pool customers see a payback period between 1.5 and 2.5 years.

Depending on your climate and temperature needs, the solar collector will take up between 50 and 100 percent of the surface area of the pool with the average pool taking up about 60 percent of the surface area. Placed on your roof, this will hardly be noticeable, and you and your family will be able to enjoy temperate waters.

If you already own a pool and have been looking for a more cost-effective way of heating it to a reasonable temperature, or if you’re in the market for adding a swimming pool to your property and want to start off on the right track, contact AMECO Solar by calling (888) 595-9570 or emailing gosolar@th2.e81.myftpupload.com to schedule a consultation.

Solar System Type: Solar Electric (PV)

Solar System Details: 27 PV Panels with a Central “String” Inverter

Electric Bill After: $6

Reduced by 98%!

To say that Sarojni and Bruce are environmentally conscious is an understatement; the Long Beach-based couple should really be considered environmental pioneers. They were recycling many years before the city provided curb-side bins and have always maintained a composting system at their home.

As a landscape designer, Bruce uses drought-resistant plants whenever possible while his wife Sarojni created the Long Beach Green Guide, a comprehensive online directory & resource for green products and services in Long Beach.

In an effort to meet other eco-minded people, Sarojni attended the first Long Beach Green Drinks gathering in the fall of 2007. It was during one of these events that she met Todd Fanady, one of AMECO Solar’s representatives. They talked about his bio-diesel fueled car and briefly discussed the benefits of solar energy.

Shortly thereafter, he visited their home to evaluate it for solar. “Todd really educated us during the first consultation. I honestly had no idea how electricity is powered by so much coal,” Sarojni explained. The couple recognized that solar would not only benefit the earth, but would also benefit their finances.

“Since we were already accustomed to paying high electricity bills at an average of $250 a month, we decided to apply that money to a solar loan instead. The idea was that the solar system would be paid off in 6-7 years and then our energy would be completely free,” Bruce explained.

Though their roof had some challenges, the AMECO Solar installers were able to use a special technique to bypass 2-3 inches of insulation panels and mount the solar panels into the wooden support beams. Bruce shared, “We were pretty impressed, the installation went really well.”

The couple’s solar installation was completed mid-December of 2007. Now, almost 6 years later, Bruce and Sarojni are happy to use renewable energy to power their home. “Relying on fossil fuel is not the answer,” Bruce stated. By installing solar panels, they hope to encourage social change and inspire more of the community to go solar as well.

A pair of recent interviews with some of the solar industry's top professionals has shown that, as far as these chief executive officers are concerned, there is little stopping the growth of the solar energy movement. 

In a sit-down talk with Bloomberg News, SunPower head Tom Werner speculated that within the next ten years, the solar industry will begin to supplant traditional sources of power like coal, oil and natural gas. His forecast is based on current expansion projections in California and abroad, which have been encouraged primarily by educational outreach that promotes the benefits of solar. He also pointed to growing demand for quality solar panels for homes that are both more durable and energy efficient. Because of this market strength, he predicts that more Americans will opt to buy these electric systems for their residences.

According to CleanTechina, a green community news source, the CEO of a major German solar panel maker said in an interview with the German-language newspaper Deutsche Welle that solar power might even become cheaper than coal one day. While more technological development is needed to push solar efficiency to new heights, he suggested that shifting perspectives on fossil fuels and growing alarm over the dangers of coal burning could push more households and businesses to adopt solar power.

Residents of California do not need to wait for new types of solar panels to be invented in order to benefit from a solar electric system or solar pool heater, the latter of which makes home recreation even more affordable. The professional team at AMECO Solar can help you determine which solar technology is best suited for you and develop an installation plan. Call our offices today to learn how solar power can change your life for the better! 

A new study compiled by the William C. Velasquez Institute (WCVI), a Southern California-based Latino outreach and research group, indicates that Latin Americans value clean energy overwhelmingly compared to fossil fuel sources like coal, oil and natural gas. A poll conducted by the organization and published late last month showed that the Latino community is making inroads in spreading the word about energy efficiency and renewable power.

Antonio Gonzalez, the president of the WCVI, said in a press statement that the researchers themselves were stunned by the high number of those who believe that sources such as solar energy are worth the investment, rather than relying on coal and oil that harm the environment and do not deliver the same kind of results as renewable power. Nearly 80 percent of respondents said that solar is the way to go.

"The results from this survey show a deepening of the Latino voter embrace for conservation and environment. Our survey shows over 80 percent support for solar power – this is unprecedented and profound especially since things like rooftop solar access are only just beginning to penetrate the Latino community. The bottom line is that green ideologies are being embraced by southern California Latinos," Gonzalez said.

This report is just one indication that popular opinion toward solar power is shifting in a positive direction. Residents of the Golden State are discovering just how advantageous it is to switch from fossil fuels to renewable energy.

If you're someone who wants to learn more about solar power, reach out to AMECO Solar to hear about how photovoltaic solar panels can benefit your household. Our team of Los Angeles solar installation experts can answer any questions you may have, so call our offices today!

The California Solar Initiative (CSI), a program intended to spur widespread adoption of solar energy throughout the state, has led to massive growth in the industry. A report released in June 2013 by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) stated that rooftop solar installations rose 26 percent in 2012, as California homes added 391 megawatts (MW) of generating capacity. What makes this number remarkable is that it doesn’t include Los Angeles solar panels and other cities that are run by municipal electric companies, as CSI only applies to investor-owned utilities.

As of the end of the first quarter of 2013, the state has a total installed capacity of 1,629 MW of grid-tied solar energy “on the customer side of the meter”, meaning rooftop systems on homes and businesses. This does not include utility-scale projects like the recently completed California Valley Solar Ranch in San Luis Obispo County. The stated goal of the CSI in 2007 was to add 1,940 MW of solar generating capacity by the end of 2016.

Most of the funding for CSI has been taken, with the program having met 66 percent of its installation goals while another 19 percent of the goal is slated to be met with projects in development or under construction. What remains to be seen is whether the California legislature will extend additional funding to the program to encourage more solar power, as the state is hardly at its full capacity.

Even without the rate-payer funded CSI, there are still plenty of tax incentives and a federal renewable energy credit available to Southern Californians who want to make the switch to solar. For more information, contact AMECO Solar at (888) 595-9570 and speak to one of our solar energy experts.

2013 is off to a great start for the solar power industry, and you won't find better results than in California. According to a report from the Los Angeles Times, our state leads the nation in terms of solar electric system installation for the first quarter of the year.

Thanks to both federal and state-based subsidies, the U.S. added a collective 723 megawatts (MW) of photovoltaic (PV) generation capability from residential, commercial and utility solar projects. California alone installed 408 MW of PV solar panels during the first three months of 2013. A large majority of the increase is due to installations conducted by utility companies, however the Los Angeles Times noted that residential PV installations did experience an incremental increase when compared to this same time period in 2012.

Rhone Resch, who heads the Solar Energy Industries Association, suggested in an interview that this year's developments are only just the beginning for the solar power movement.

"Obviously California has been a leader for solar energy for some time, but now we're seeing gigawatts installed on an annual basis. It is absolutely conceivable that solar will be installed on pace to replace San Onofre," Resch said, referring to the controversial nuclear power plant that is in the process of being decommissioned.

Californians hoping to take advantage of the eco-friendly benefits of solar power should reach out to AMECO Solar for the professional know-how and guidance that has defined our company for decades. We work with both homeowners and businesses to develop the kind of energy solution that best suits their needs. Contact our offices today to learn more.

The California Valley Solar Ranch (CVSR), a 250 megawatt (MW) solar generating station located in Eastern San Luis Obispo County, has been completed. Once fully operational, the facility will produce enough electricity to power 100,000 homes, almost the entire city of San Luis Obispo.

Energy generated by the CVSR will be transmitted over the PG&E grid, and will allow our Central Californian neighbors to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by as much as 333,000 metric tons per year.

California has a renewable portfolio standard (RPS) that requires utilities to derive 33 percent of the electricity they produce from renewable sources. The CVSR project will go a long way towards meeting that goal. It is currently the largest photovoltaic plant in the state, although GreenTech Media, a clean technology website, reports that a 550 MW capacity generating station will soon begin construction in the Carrizo Plain of Central California.

The CVSR facility covers 4,700 acres, but only about 1,500 of that is actually taken up by solar panels. The remaining 3,200 acres will be set aside for permanent conservancy, in order to support several species living in the area. According to the plant's website, it will inject $315 million into the local economy both during construction and operation, while generating $10 million in total tax revenue.

This development represents a major step forward for California solar energy, but you don't need to wait for your local utility to build its own large scale plant to take advantage of the financial and environmental benefits of solar power. AMECO Solar can design and install a solar electric system that will significantly lower your energy costs while improving air quality. Contact us today for more information.

Last month, the LADWP Board of Water and Power Commissions voted to approve changes to their Solar Photovoltaic Incentive Program that will go into effect on July 15, 2013. The most notable change is that the utility company will be lowering the incentive levels for the remaining steps of the program. The residential solar PV incentive for Step 8 will drop from $0.75 per watt to $0.40 per watt, Step 9 will drop from $0.65 to $0.30 and Step 10 will drop from $0.60 to $0.25.

The incentive program was originally launched as a way to encourage LADWP customers to go solar by rewarding them with a rebate that lowered the initial cost of a solar electric system. Incentive levels were designed to be paid in steps, meaning that as more people install solar systems, the amount of available rebate funding would decrease. At the moment, the program is currently in Step 8 of 10.

Once enough solar panels have been installed and the capacity of the program is reached, it will close and LADWP customers won’t be able to receive any rebates for their solar installations. Estimates by the utility company project that the program will last through 2016. However, many solar experts speculate that it may end earlier, possibly in late 2014 or early 2015 since there is usually an explosive increase in solar installations towards the end of a rebate program.

Many other rebate programs have already closed in other parts of California. The residential solar incentive programs for SDG&E and PG&E have both ended while SCE’s residential solar rebate program is currently in its last step.

If you have been on the fence about going solar and live within LADWP’s territory, there is no better time than the present to go solar while you can still take advantage of the rebate program and get money back on your initial solar investment. Contact AMECO Solar by calling (562) 633-4400 or emailing gosolar@th2.e81.myftpupload.com and we can assist you in going solar.

Location: Van Nuys, CA
Solar System Type: Solar Electric (PV)
Solar System Details: 14 PV Panels with a Central “String” Inverter

Electric Bill Before: $200
Electric Bill After: $9
Reduced by 96%!

Originally from Malta, Pat has spent much of her life traveling around the globe. After seeing so many natural wonders up close, she decided to lead a green life as a way to preserve the world’s treasures. Whether driving her Prius hybrid car, following a mainly vegetarian diet or tending to her organic garden, she always aims to be environmentally conscious.

When her daughter installed solar panels on her garage in Arizona and was extremely pleased with the results, Pat was convinced that it was time to install a solar system on her home. “Just the idea of the sun going to waste when it could be doing all these good things made me want to go solar,” she said.

Of course, the fact that she could save money by using solar energy was an added benefit. The hot weather in Van Nuys often required her to use the air conditioner driving up her electricity bills to $200 a month.

Technicians for Sustainability, the Tucson-based renewable energy company that installed her daughter’s solar system, recommended Pat get in touch with AMECO for her solar installation in California. She explained, “They told me AMECO is a reliable and long-standing company, so I called you right away.”

During the site evaluation, AMECO Solar Consultant Todd Fanady discussed her solar options and explained the different steps of the installation process. After their conversation, Pat decided to install 14 PV panels on her roof. Shortly thereafter, the AMECO crew arrived and took only a day and a half to install the solar electric system.

Since her solar system has been turned on, Pat has received two bills with zero electricity charges. She enjoys checking the solar monitor to see how many pounds of carbon dioxide she has saved so far. In just a few months, she has already saved 2,800 pounds!

Happy that she’s reducing her carbon footprint with solar energy, Pat tells everyone about her great experience with AMECO. Her friends in Northridge already took her advice and are now using an AMECO solar system to power their home as well. She’s hoping more people will follow suit soon.

In recent years, many solar companies have shifted their focus to leasing solar photovoltaic systems and it has become increasingly popular for consumers. In fact, more than half of all new residential solar installations were financed and owned by a third party in 2012, and many industry experts expect this number to increase in 2013. As a result of its popularity, marketers are spending their budgets promoting solar leases and the market has been flooded with “Zero Down” advertising and sometimes confusing claims.

Once someone has made the decision to investigate solar, they come to us with many questions, and are especially interested in understanding about solar leasing. They want to understand how leasing works and figure out if it makes sense for them. Since so many people have been confused by the mixed messages in the media, we decided to discuss the pros and cons of leasing a system in hopes that the choice to lease or buy will become more clear.

First, let’s go over the basics of a solar lease. A solar lease allows you to rent a solar system from a leasor by paying monthly payments for a certain amount of time. Typically, most lease agreements are for terms of 20 years. Once the lease term is up, one may have the option of renewing the lease, removing the system or purchasing it at fair market value.

The biggest incentive for leasing is that your monthly payment may be less than the amount you previously paid to the utility company, resulting in immediate savings the moment your system is turned on. Additionally, you will continue to realize savings throughout the entire lease term as electricity rates continue to rise and your home benefits from solar energy instead.

Another pro is that the lease provider will take care of the maintenance for twenty years because they are the owner of the solar system. On the other hand, since you are not the owner, you will not receive any rebates, incentives and RECs (renewable energy certificates) associated with your solar system. Instead, they will go to the lease provider.

At the end of a twenty year lease, the final cost of the system for the user is about 2-3 times more than the cost it would require to install and maintain your own solar panels. This is what makes the leasing process so lucrative for providers and explains why so many companies are happy to finance your solar with a lease product.

That said, leasing companies guarantee the solar panel performance for the entire lease term, so you can rest assured that you will be powering your home with solar energy for the next 20 years with no maintenance or repair costs. Also, they usually keep track of production by installing an online monitoring system. If you are a tech geek, you will enjoy checking in online to see how much energy the solar panels produce.

One of the biggest disadvantages of leasing a solar system is that it will complicate and perhaps halt the future sale of your home. If you resell your home before the lease term is over, you must either convince the soon-to-be owner to take over the solar lease (and hope that they will qualify the credit review) or pay off the lease yourself before selling (and hope that there is no penalty for pre-payment).

In summary, leasing is a good way to go solar if improving your immediate cash flow is your goal or simply going green is paramount. If you want a better investment value, then purchasing the system will provide the best results, especially if cash flow is not the primary objective. We offer all types of financing (including leasing) and we’re more than happy to explain and discuss the details of financing options.

Patrick Redgate, AMECO’s CEO and President, was recently interviewed by Solar Industry Mag. In the article, Nora Caley discusses a report released by Lux Research that goes over the solar panel oversupply issues in China and the current health of individual solar companies. After reviewing the past year, she turns to solar experts to get their opinion on the future of the industry.

Redgate responded with the following, “What I think is going to happen this year is there is going to be a shakeout . . . we are going to see who comes out the other end, and it will be either manufacturers committed to staying with this business or manufacturers who have technology that is superior.” He also comments on how competition from other energy sources will affect solar and shares his prediction for the continued growth of residential solar installation.

For more, please visit Solar Industry Mag to read “Coming Soon: Solar Profitability.”

Solar System Type: Solar Electric (PV)

Solar System Details: 22 PV Panels with a Central “String” Inverter

Electric Bill After: $1.74

Reduced by 99%!

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With retirement on the horizon, Linda and Dan started to evaluate their monthly budget and figure out ways to reduce costs. After some research, they quickly realized they could save a substantial amount of money by going solar.

Before they installed PV panels on the garage of their Santa Ana home, they were paying about $250 a month for electricity. However, when guests would visit during the summer and they had to run two air conditioners in the house, the bill would creep up to $300 or more. “Our electrical bill was becoming a large expense and Edison was continuing to increase rates,” explained Dan, a chemistry teacher at the local high school, “We wanted to invest in solar energy before our bill got even higher.”

The couple researched many solar installation companies, receiving estimates from a total of four firms. Though they were originally impressed by our reviews on Angie’s List, they eventually signed a contract with AMECO because of the no-pressure sales environment and the knowledgeable staff. “Todd really knew his stuff,” Linda said, “He went above and beyond to answer all of our questions, many of which were too difficult for the other companies to answer.”

After a quick and easy installation by the AMECO crew, Linda was extremely happy with the result. She immediately shared photos with her friends on Facebook, wrote her own glowing review on Angie’s List highlighting our personal customer service and even sent a handwritten note thanking us for the solar system.

While solar is saving the couple money in the short term, they are well aware of the long term financial benefits. Investing in a solar electric system will give them a 20% return-on-investment, significantly more than any other type of investment that they could make at this time.

Now that solar energy is powering their home and the savings is going straight to their bank account, Linda and Dan are prepared for an easygoing and enjoyable retirement. Congrats to another pair of happy AMECO customers!

On Friday, May 17, AMECO employees joined a large group of government officials, local residents and members of the solar community to celebrate the Mendoza family’s solar installation.

The family was the sixth on the street to benefit from California’s Single-family Affordable Solar Homes Program, which aims to provide low income families with solar energy.

“California is number one in its production of solar energy and we’re number one in our commitment to it,” Governor Jerry Brown said during his speech.

Other government officials, including Long Beach Mayor Bob Foster and California Assemblyman Steven Bradford, commemorated GRID Alternatives for arranging the solar installation in North Long Beach. As the manager of the SASH program, the organization has installed almost 8.5 megawatts of renewable energy for over 3,000 families during the past 9 years.

The family watched with pride as a team of trainees from LA Trade Tech worked alongside seasoned solar workers to install the solar panels on their roof.

Thanks to GRID Alternatives and SASH, the new solar system will reduce the family’s monthly electric bill by 90% and allow them to redirect the savings to other expenses. While they are thankful for the financial benefit, they are also excited that the PV panels will reduce their carbon footprint.

Last week we wrote about how to choose a trusted solar contractor by checking professional credentials, customer references and online reviews. This week’s article will go over the importance of hiring a company that focuses on solar installation in addition to seeking out trained solar professionals and quality products.

Every few years, we see an influx of people trying to get into the solar business. For instance, your general contractor might add solar installation to their services or the local roofing company will start selling solar panels. One time a customer even told us that their real estate company was getting into the solar business! Beware of these types of companies; it’s very likely they will not have the proper training and experience. Since solar installation can be quite complicated and there are many different rules and regulations, it is best to find a firm who is solely focused on solar.

We also recommend going with a locally-based company. They are usually familiar with your city’s building codes and inspection procedures, so they will most likely provide you with a higher quality installation and better service in the future.

In nearly 40 years of business, we have seen a lot of solar installation companies come and go. If a company shuts down it can result in a variety of issues; it is possible the terms of your lease might change or you won’t be able to solicit them for any future maintenance. By choosing a company that’s been installing systems for at least 10 years, there is a better chance that they will stay in business for as long as your solar system is producing energy. You can look this up by going on the CSLB website.

Pay attention to any other contractor’s licenses they have opened in the past. Many people will claim that they have been in business for 20 years but it’s possible those years were spent as a roofer, burglar alarm company or other trade, and they just recently started installing solar panels last year.

Of course, it’s important to hire trained solar professionals to work on your solar system. First, if a company has C46 solar contractor’s license, then you know they have gone through special training. Second, make sure that they do not subcontract any part of the job. Ask them once, ask them twice, and get it in writing. You really want experienced, solar installers up on your roof instead of someone who was hired for just a few days of work.

Finally, there are some companies who have one or two pre-packaged solar deals that they offer to everyone. However, since energy usage, roof space and location vary so greatly from project to project, it’s better to choose a solar installer who offers a variety of products from reputable brands (like SunPower, Sharp, and Bosch/Aleo to name a few). Then, the company can tailor the solar system to your needs and, ultimately, provide you with a higher performing array that will better fulfill your expectations.

Deciding to invest in a solar system is a huge decision and long-term investment. Hopefully, this guide will help you avoid a fly-by-night operation and find a trusted solar installation company who will provide a smooth transition to using clean, renewable solar energy to power your home or business.

If you haven’t already, read Part 1 of our “How to Choose A Solar Installer” series. Also, check out Troy Wolverton’s article  at the Mercury News website. He provides some great information about how to shop for a solar system and solar installer.

Once you have decided to go solar, it’s time to choose who will install the solar system. With hundreds of solar installers and contractors in Southern California alone, it can seem pretty overwhelming. By properly researching your solar contractor, you can ensure that you will receive a quality installation and your system will produce the maximum amount of solar energy for the duration of its lifetime. But, where to start?

First things first, research the company’s professional credentials. We suggest finding out the following:

• Are they a member of CALSEIA?
• Are they listed as an eligible vendor at the California Solar Initiative website?
• Are they licensed by the Contractors State License Board?
• Are they a member of the League of California Homeowners?
• Do they have an A+ Rating from the Better Business Bureau?

CALSEIA, or the California Solar Energy Industries Association, is dedicated to spreading solar technology throughout the state. They make sure that their members are avoiding any deceptive acts and are running an ethical business model. Of course, it’s important to check that the company is listed as an eligible vendor on the California Solar Initiative (CSI) website and is also licensed by the Contractors State License Board (CSLB).

We also recommend choosing a solar installer who is a member of the League of California Homeowners. This nonprofit organization does a rigorous background check on their members every year. Among other things, they check to see that the company did not file for bankruptcy and has the proper workers comp and insurance. They also interview three customers a year to make sure that folks are happy with the company’s work.

The Better Business Bureau doles out ratings from A+ to F based on a 16 point system that evaluates everything from the number and degree of any complaints filed to the use of questionable advertising. We would only accept a solar installer with an A+ rating from the BBB.

Second, ask the solar contractor to provide you with customer references from previous installations. Pay attention to the amount of references they give you. For instance, did they provide you with 3 or 30 references? Are the references from recent jobs only or the entire time that they have been in business? We recommend contacting a few of the references to see what they have to say. Ultimately, their feedback might help you make your final decision.

Lastly, research the solar company’s online reviews on websites like Yelp or Angie’s List. Since these sites are unedited, you can get a pretty good feel for the company’s reputation by reading through the commentary. Solar Reviews is also a good website to gauge a solar installation company’s quality of work and service.

Verifying a solar company’s professional credentials and reviewing their customer references and reviews are a few tips that will give you a good start on researching the best solar installer for your project. Be sure to check back in on the blog next week for the second installment on how to choose a solar contractor with even more pointers and advice.

The California Aquatics Therapy & Wellness Center has awarded a solar pool heating project to AMECO, a local company that is considered a pioneer and leader in the solar industry.

Originally organized as the California Communities Pool for the Handicapped in 1956 by civic leader Evelyn DuPont, the nonprofit organization offers accessible and affordable aquatic therapy to nearly 2,000 children and adults each year.

Because therapeutic pools are typically warmer than the average pool, heating the two community pools has become a significant expense for the center, costing upwards of $13,000 a year. The original solar pool heater, installed by AMECO in 1981, was removed in order to replace the roof and make way for more efficient solar panels that will offset the energy needed to heat the pools.

“California Aquatics Therapy & Wellness Center has been a long-standing institution in Long Beach for fifty years now. We’re honored to provide them with clean, renewable energy so that they can lower their utility bill and direct the savings to support their integral community programs,” said Pat Redgate, President & CEO of AMECO.

Community programs include aquatic therapy and rehabilitation sessions offered to children and adults with disabilities such as cerebral palsy, autism and muscular dystrophy. Many of the pool’s members spend all day in their wheel chairs explained Kit Gabel, the Aquatic Director who has worked at the center for five years. “This is the only time that they can feel free,” he said.

The center also provides programs including ‘Moovin and Groovin’ for children from low-income families and aquatic exercise classes for the elderly.

Funding for the project is provided by the Port of Long Beach as a grant to reduce greenhouse gasses. In addition to the solar system installation, the grant will provide funds to educate local community members about solar energy.

Solar System Type: Solar Electric (PV)

Solar System Details: 20 PV Panels with Micro-Inverters and Monitoring System

Electric Bill After: $22

Reduced by 90%!

‍

Ever since the neighbor across the street installed a solar system six years ago, Rita and Nick had been toying with the idea of going solar. With Rita working from home and two teenage girls constantly watching TV and using blow dryers, their electricity bill was already on the high side. But it wasn’t until 2012 when Edison hiked electricity rates and they saw their bill increase significantly that the family became more serious about investing in a solar system.

Another selling point was that AMECO offers a technologically advanced solar panel with a micro-inverter attached to the back, often referred to as an AC panel. This set-up allows the DC power generated from the sun to be immediately converted into AC power that can be used in the home. Since each panel works independently, it allows the configuration to produce the maximum amount of energy. Also, you can easily enable a monitoring system and access it online as Rita and Nick have done.

Rita reported that the installation process went smoothly, “I was at home the two and a half days that it took for the installers to complete the project. They were so polite and pleasant, and always made sure that our dogs were safe when coming in and out of the house.”

All in all, Rita and Nick are very happy with their AMECO-installed solar electric system. A few neighbors and friends have already come by asking about it and they are eager to share how they’ve reduced their electric bill to practically nothing. “I wish we could say that we went solar to be green and save the environment,” they said, “But we really did it for the other green . . . to save money!”

As the sun rose over El Dorado Park this past Saturday, large groups of middle school and high school students gathered for the Fourth Annual Solar Grand Prix. The event, hosted by Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske and partly sponsored by AMECO, focuses on solar energy education by challenging students to work together to a design, build and race a model car that’s powered by a solar panel.

While checking in teams from 22 different schools in Long Beach, AMECO was able to evaluate each solar-powered model car.

Many teams tried to utilize lightweight materials in hopes that it would increase the speed of their car. One team made a long, sleek frame out of balsa wood while another group used the Styrofoam shell from the packaging of a younger brother’s toy as the body of the car.

Others team got into the technical aspect of the design by trying out new gears, tinkering with the motor or adding traction to their recycled wheels. One team of young women had taken apart an old sewing machine and used some of the parts for the engine — whenever the car ran it sounded like a sewing machine!

We were impressed by the ingenuity and creativity that the students put into their designs. Some of our favorite creative solar cars included a design that looked like the Endeavor space shuttle. Another was doused in glitter to try to increase the amount of sunlight going to the solar panel, also because the team was made up of 12 years old girls.

After every solar-powered model car was registered and reviewed in detail by the judges, the races were set to begin. The appointed rep from each team prepared their solar car at one end of the track, being sure to cover the solar panel with a piece of cardboard. Once the race flag was lowered, off came the cardboard and the sun gave energy to the solar model cars so that they moved down the wooden race track while everyone cheered. Some cars went extremely fast and completed the race in seconds while other cars went at a steady speed.  Unfortunately, a few teams experienced technical malfunctions and had to rescue their cars from the middle of the track.

While only a few teams received trophies for being the fastest or having the most innovative design, it was a winning day for all of the Long Beach students and families involved in the Solar Grand Prix. The students enjoyed the process of planning, designing and building their solar models cars as much as the thrill of the competition. All the while, everyone learned about solar power and how it’s clean, renewable energy benefits our community and environment.

If your home has a solar energy system, how does this translate into value for a potential buyer when the house is “For Sale”?

Today, whenever you purchase a product that uses energy, information provided by Energy Star Label is available to make comparisons. However, there is no standardized approach to assess these features for the many houses that were built before Energy Efficiency methods became widely adopted. Since there is no accepted metric used by appraisers and the real estate industry as whole to gauge the dollar value of energy saving or producing features of older homes, it is important for the prospective buyer or seller to look for an appraiser that uses the Green Addendum and for sellers to insist that solar and other green features be highlighted in their listing.

In the past, the American Appraisal Institute estimated that any feature that saved a dollar a year in operating costs would add twenty times that amount to the home’s value, because such savings would potentially increase the loan amount available to any buyer. This is an example of reverse engineering that could be considered optimistic, or even fanciful.

Since then, thousands of homeowners have installed solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and enough data now exists so that Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory was able to conduct a comprehensive survey and establish a value for homes that produce their own energy through solar panels. Their research analyzed data from the sale of 72,000 homes in California, 2000 of which had a solar electric system. The study indicates that the average solar system added between $3.90 to $6.40 per watt, or approximately $17,000 in value for a house with a 3.1 kilowatt solar system. This would mean that in most cases today, the entire pre-incentive cost of a grid-tied solar PV system will be recaptured once the home is sold.

Many other studies have been published that speak to the importance of solar energy and other energy saving products when selling a home. The National Association of Home Builders reported that home buyers would be willing to pay an extra $7,095 for a home that saved $1,000 in utility costs. Another survey by the National Association of Realtors indicates that 87% of today’s buyers rate energy features as important.

In yet another study, the University of North Carolina has discovered that there is connection between homeowners who install green features and mortgage default rates. The researchers also determined that homes with savings of 15% or higher on utility bills are 32% less likely to default on home loans. This may be connected with the fact that houses with solar panels or other green features are cheaper to live in, and therefore mortgages are easier to pay.

There are so many reasons to go solar, not the least of which is the fact that it’s a home improvement that will not only pay for itself, but will recuperate any funds initially invested in the solar system with value added to the home at the time of sale.

Join us for our Solar 101 Community Workshop on Wednesday, May 1 from 6:30 to 7:30 pm in Long Beach.

Organized by AMECO, the workshop will teach you how to use the sun’s power to benefit your home or business.  Our team of experts will go over the basics of solar energy in addition to other topics including: how much money you can save with solar, how to finance a solar installation and how to choose the best solar system and solar installer.  Attendees will be given the chance to ask questions at the end of the workshop.

Patrick Redgate, our President & CEO commented, “After thirty nine years in the solar business, we have accumulated a lot of knowledge about solar. We want to pass this information on to the community and hope that our session will inspire more people to consider solar, making their homes and business more sustainable.”

There are a limited amount of spaces available so register today to lock in your spot at the Solar 101 Community Workshop.  Fill out a brief form on our Solar 101 Registration page or call us at (562) 633-4400. We hope to see you there!

Solar photovoltaic panels generate DC (Direct Current) electricity. However, almost every household and business in Southern California uses AC (Alternating Current) electricity. A solar inverter changes DC power to AC power so it can provide electricity that is suitable for use in your home or business. Also, this conversion allows you to “backfeed” electricity to the utility grid to which the inverter is connected so that you can sell electricity back to the utility company (a process that is known as net metering).

There are two types inverters used in solar installations today: 1) a central “string” inverter or 2) multiple small “micro” inverters. Micro-inverters are relative newcomers to the marketplace and despite their higher cost (as much as 30% more than a central inverter) their popularity has been growing rapidly in Southern California. In 2008 there were only 18 residential solar systems that possessed micro-inverter technology, but by the end of 2012 that number had increased to 12,000.¹

A typical central inverter is located at ground level, usually near the Main Electrical Service Panel. It combines all of the power from multiple solar panels in this one central location. As a result, voltages can be quite high in the central inverter, sometimes as much as 600 volts DC. Micro-inverters are connected to each solar panel in the system and immediately convert DC power to AC current, usually at 240 volts. Although both voltages can be dangerous, there is an improved safety factor when using micro-inverters that have lower voltages.

Other perceived advantages of micro-inverters:

• Since each solar panel has its own inverter, a failure would mean that only one panel is not working;
• One panel’s poor performance would not affect its neighbor’s production, but if there is a shaded panel in a system with a central inverter then it can alter the energy output of other panels;
• Multiple orientations of panels are possible with micro-inverters while a central inverter usually requires its panels to all face in the same direction.

On the other hand, there are disadvantages associated with micro-inverters:

• Because they are rooftop-mounted, there are higher installation costs and higher costs associated with future serviceability;
• A micro-inverter is installed on the roof under the solar panel where high heat could reduce its life, whereas central inverters have a documented history of reliable performance;
• Voltage drops for long runs at 240 volts of AC power in micro-inverters is greater than that with higher voltage DC wiring associated with central inverters.

Although performance and failure rates are more predictable with central inverters at this point in time, the future looks promising for individual or micro-inverters. If reliability and cost trends continue, central “string” inverters may become a feature of the past in the not too distant future.

The fact that micro-inverters allow AC power output of a solar system to be interrupted by a switch located at ground level markedly improves safety for first responders in the event of a fire. In addition, the ability to design a system with minimal regard for solar panel orientation opens up more roof area for module deployment. Lastly, since many micro-inverter manufacturers provide module-level monitoring, a defective unit will be recognized and replaced, hopefully in time to take advantage of its warranty. This may become more crucial in time as smaller foreign manufacturers leave the US market.

All in all, micro-inverter technology is a winner on many levels, but only time will decide which technology crosses the finish line.

¹Data from the CSI for the utilities of SCE, PG&E and SDG&E.

As the local solar expert of Los Angeles and Orange County, we’re constantly reading up on the latest news to keep informed about the solar industry. Every once in a while, we’ll share the most interesting articles that we come across in an effort to help spread some solar knowledge.

• With so much speculation about the future of solar energy, Rosana Francescato tries to set things straight with her article at the PV Solar Report. In particular, she explains why solar makes financial sense and makes a detailed comparison between renewable energy and fossil fuels.

• In Solar Today’s March 2013 Issue, Tracy Dahl writes about his unique solar photovoltaic (PV) system on Greenland’s ice cap. Its tower-like design allows for maximum solar energy production that powers the Summit Station research center.

• Jennifer Runyon reports on the incredible growth of the solar industry in 2012 on Renewable Energy World. Of course, California comes out on top with the most residential and non-residential solar systems installed last year.

• Did you know that Pope Benedict XVI is often called the “green pope” and installed solar panels on the roof of the Vatican? In Kate Galbraith’s article in the NY Times, she explores the Pope’s influence on churches across the nation and why they are considering solar energy.

• It warms our hearts to see nonprofit organization We Care Solar using solar energy to save lives in Nigeria. Read more in Christie O’Reilly’s article, ‘Solar suitcase’ saving moms, babies during childbirth.

We’d like to take a moment to introduce the newest member of the AMECO Solar team…our Chevy Volt!

The bright and bold design — done by Iconography Studios over in Los Alamitos — highlights the fact that our brand new electric car is powered by solar energy.

Each evening, we plug in the electric car so that it can refuel with clean, renewable energy that has been produced from our solar photovoltaic (PV) panels. After a full night of charging, the Chevy Volt has sufficient energy to go anywhere from 40 to 100 miles on solar power alone. That’s more than enough for a short commute to the office and a few visits to our installation sites.

Similar to solar rebates and incentives, you receive money back from the state and federal government when you purchase an electric car. The California state government offers a $1,500 rebate for plug-in electric vehicles like the Chevy Volt, and the federal government offers a tax credit of up to $7,500. Added together, these rebates reduced the price tag of our electric car by $9,000.

But that’s not all! We’re saving even more money each month by fueling with solar power instead of gas or electricity from the utility company.

Let’s say, on average we drive about 1,000 miles a month.

If we were driving a car that gets 25 MPG with gas currently at a record high of $4.32 a gallon (ouch), then we would spend $172.80 a month to refuel with gas.

If we were driving our Chevy Volt that uses 2.7 kilowatts per hour with electricity currently at an average of about $0.20 per kilowatt per hour, then we would spend $74.07 a month to refuel with electricity from the utility company.

But, by driving our Chevy volt with energy generated from our AMECO Solar-installed solar panels, we will spend $0 to refuel with solar power. Saving us up to $2,000 a year!

While driving an electric car is already reducing our carbon footprint, we are reducing our greenhouse emissions even more by using solar power to charge our new Chevy Volt. And that’s saying a lot for a car owner driving around Los Angeles and Orange County.

If you are interested in adding solar panels to offset the energy usage of your electric vehicle, contact us by replying to this blog post, calling (888) 595-9570 or going to the AMECO Solar website.

For so many Californians who have chosen to install a solar electric system, the phrase Net Metering is simply a way of describing the way power from roof-top solar panels will reduce their own electric consumption and spin the meter backwards.

But Net Metering also allows owners of solar systems to receive credit for clean power provided to the utility company when their own energy needs are being exceeded during the day. The result: electricity generated by your solar panels is purchased by the utility company at the same price that it is sold to the customer.

Most likely because they receive no profit in this transaction, the utility companies originally argued that another customer receives no economic benefit from their neighbor’s decision to go solar.

However, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) believed otherwise. In 1996, it created the Net Energy regulation to permit 0.5% of the utility company’s demand to be generated by clean resources, and later increased it to 5%. The commissioners were convinced that the Distributed Generation (DG) produced by commercial and residential solar panels would offset the cost for new conventional power plants and transmission lines. It would also help to stabilize power supplies during peak summer demand when solar energy is at its maximum.

As the cap of 5% is drawing near, Californian utility companies (including PG&E, SCE and SDG&E) have made it very clear—paying customers full retail value for the clean energy that your solar panels generate is not an economic model that is sustainable for their shareholders.

Meaning, they do not want their customers in the business of generating power and are planning to do whatever they can to stop the advance of net metering at 5% of peak demand. If they aren’t able to stop net metering completely, they would like to require that energy be sold at a wholesale rate (rather than retail rate) at the very least.

Without net metering, the utility companies will pay only a fraction of the cost for electricity generated by photovoltaic solar panels, which would significantly reduce the economic viability of investing in solar power and directly threaten over 120,000 individual solar panel owners and an industry that now employs over 43,000 Californians.

Moreover, a recent study by former CPUC advisor, Tom Beach of Crossborder Energy, estimates that the financial benefits of solar energy are actually exceeding its costs by 92.2 million dollars a year. This study reveals that the utility companies are wrong, and that solar power actually benefits both the owner of the solar panels and their neighbors. These and other arguments will be made by clean energy advocates during the next year as the cap of 5% gets closer and closer.

Net Metering has been the backbone of California’s transition to a cleaner, solar-powered DG future. Unless battery technology that is clean, efficient, non-toxic and affordable is developed soon, Net Metering will disappear and solar panel owners (and rate-payers alike!) will suffer as conventional fossil fuel and nuclear plants are built to meet our future power requirements.

Here at AMECO we hope that clean energy advocates and the solar power industry can win the fight against the utility companies.

And their off!

Recently, hundreds of middle school and high school-aged students gathered for the kick-off orientation of the fourth annual Solar Grand Prix, an event put together by Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske, the 5th District Solar and Sustainability Task Force and Partners of Parks.

We’re proud to announce that AMECO Solar is sponsoring this exciting and educational event where local students learn about solar power while also applying their practical math and science skills.

At the kick-off, each of the 79 teams was given a Solar Power Car kit that included a miniature-size solar panel and motor. The challenge? Work with their teammates to design and build the car that will race down the 65 foot track the fastest. Rumor has it that the lightest designs are usually the top competitors, but awards are also given for the most creative designs.

AMECO employees have enjoyed participating in past years, cheering on our sponsored teams and even participating as one of the highly esteemed judges.

One of our team members explained “It’s cool to see the kids get so excited about solar energy and the designs of their cars. Some are so innovative! I remember one group picked up trash at the park a few weeks before the event and then used different pieces from the trash to build the solar power car.”

Other favorite designs included one made entirely of old, plastic CD holders and more technical designs where the solar panel could tilt to find the best angle for solar energy or bike gears were used to adjust the speed of the car. We can’t wait to see what the kids come up with this year.

“This year’s Solar Grand Prix will be bigger and better than ever. We have a record number of students and coaches who have signed up to compete in the race. Every year, I’m amazed at how innovative and technologically advanced our students are when I see the model cars they create each year,” Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske told the reporter at Everything Long Beach.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, April 20 and join us at El Dorado Park for the fourth annual Solar Grand Prix!

In the meantime, read more about the Solar Grand Prix at Councilwoman Gerrie Schipske’s blog and Everything Long Beach, or check out the Grunion Gazette’s video of the solar-powered model cars in motion from last year’s event.

More than one-third of U.S. solar installers believe that permitting requirements are limiting market growth, according to a new nationwide study conducted by Clean Power Finance.

The study, which the company says is the largest of its kind to date, provides quantifiable evidence of the negative effects that complex permitting regulations have on U.S. solar installers and also on the authorities having jurisdiction (AHJs), including municipalities and utilities, that oversee permitting processes.

Clean Power Finance undertook the study as part of preparations for the National Solar Permitting Database (NSPD), a free, online database of permitting requirements from across the U.S. that is funded in part by Clean Power Finance and in part by a U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) SunShot Initiative grant.

“The study puts real numbers to what all installers have been feeling: permitting is an albatross around the industry’s neck,” says Patrick Redgate, president and CEO of Ameco Solar Inc., a Southern California-based solar installation company, and a member of the board of directors for the California Solar Energy Industries Association. “Clearly, not all cities are bad, but we need to call out the ones that are particularly problematic.”

Please click HERE to read the article in its entirety.

SOURCE: https://solarindustrymag.com/frustrated-installers-say-permitting-holds-back-the-us-solar-market

By Joshua H. Silavent – Staff Writer, Long Beach Business Journal

December 4, 2012 – Patrick Redgate has seen the solar power industry grow from its nascent days of potential several decades ago to a market today that is expanding to meet increased residential and commercial demand.

While working in Saudi Arabia in the late 1970s, during a time of severe gas shortages, Redgate began to think about “where I could make a difference.” He understood the necessity for a robust renewable energy portfolio from both an environmental and economic perspective, long before it was fashionable to do so in either sense.

Patrick Redgate, president and CEO of Ameco Solar, shows off a solar panel
at his company’s headquarters in Paramount. “We have a saying in our
business: Fossil fuels are too precious to burn,” he told the
Business Journal. (Photograph by the Business Journal’s Thomas McConville)

“The energy sector’s huge,” Redgate, the CEO of Paramount-based Ameco Solar, told the Business Journal. So getting in on the ground floor of the emerging solar industry was important for a number of reasons, not the least of which was the world’s need to broaden its energy supply to incorporate sustainable power sources and move away from dependence on oil. “We have a saying in our business: Fossil fuels are too precious to burn,” he said.

Redgate began working with a solar company in Signal Hill in 1979 after his return from the Middle East. He purchased the company two years later and changed the name to Ameco. Today, the company designs, installs and repairs solar energy systems for homes and businesses. “Most of what we do now is photovoltaic, which is electric,” he said.

But it took a while for solar technology to catch up with Redgate’s vision and early entry into the market. “I got to the point where I thought I was just never going to see it in my lifetime,” he said.

These days, however, solar is more popular than ever. One reason lies in the fact that more and more Americans want to reduce their environmental footprint and are resorting to alternative, renewable sources of energy to do so. Solar also makes good fiscal sense these days. “We may put in a system that only tackles 20 percent of their consumption but cuts their bill in half,” Redgate said.

Moreover, companies are finding solar power helps improve the bottom line and adds a measure of credibility for consumers who want to spend their money with socially and environmentally responsible businesses.

“Companies that can afford to go solar and want to present that image just automatically do it,” Redgate said.

The solar industry also has government investment to thank for its recent growth spurt, but many subsidies are set to expire at the end of 2016, which will likely cause some winnowing in the industry, or a “clearing of the field,” Redgate said. But these incentives have helped keep costs down as the industry expands. “I think that people would really be surprised to find out how affordable solar is,” he added.

Net metering, which provides retail rate credits to consumers who generate energy supplies for the power grid, has perhaps been the biggest incentive for consumers to invest in solar. However, utilities are fighting the way this benefit is calculated.

Still, Redgate makes a powerful case for solar. “Not only are we building infrastructure, but we’re creating wealth for the people that live in this state,” he said. Many residents and businesses in Long Beach like the sound of this pitch.

Whereas solar was once an option for the well-to-do, Redgate has seen young families and blue-collar workers clamoring for a new, green-friendly energy source. Furthermore, Ameco has performed installations for a number of small commercial retail centers, as well as doctor and dental offices, in Long Beach.

Ameco holds free workshops once or more a year for interested consumers to learn about the benefits of solar power, both from an environmental and economic standpoint. The company works with three photovoltaic and three thermal manufactures to provide clients with today’s best industry technology.

Thanks to increases in oil and natural gas production, as well as sustained growth in the renewable energy industry, the International Energy Agency reports that the United States is poised to become energy independent in the next decade or so. Redgate understands that solar is but one component of the nation’s energy portfolio, but a strong one at that. “You can’t just go all solar, or all wind, or all coal, or all nuclear . . . You have to have a mix,” he said.

Source: Long Beach Business Journal

Interview with AMECO Solar CEO – Patrick Redgate

The Solar Industry Then & Now

How did you get started in the solar industry?

I got into solar because I was working for an engineering firm in Saudi Arabia in the 70’s.  When I came back from Saudi Arabia, I said this is not sustainable.  That’s probably not the word I used, but that’s a really popular word now and it’s really an important one because when I came back to America I realized this isn’t a business that I wanted to do.  I wanted to get in the business of saving the planet.   Now however, solar has been a rocky road and in the meantime we have learned that solar is really just a part of the mix.  There are many other energy generating technologies that are important for us.

How has the hardware changed?  What improvements have you seen?

The kind of hardware we used to install commonly was generating heat and that would be heat for people’s homes and hot water for businesses, swimming pools.  In fact that technology has really ripened and is mature now.  But what we’ve seen now is that photovoltaics have come down in cost and photovoltaic is the science of generating electricity.  Electricity is so expensive to get in any other way because of not only the economic costs, but the environmental costs.  Photovoltaics are now something I never thought I would see in my lifetime available for everybody for any application that they want.

What were some of the challenges facing you when you were starting out and what are some of the challenges now?

The biggest challenge when we started out was first of all locating products that made sense.  And without any track record or understanding it was our job really to discover what was out there.  Sometimes I think we were just lucky.  We picked the right products and those products did us well.  But we are pretty conservative in how we choose what we represent and what we install.  We don’t manufacture, however in the 70’s we actually did manufacture because the offerings were so limited.  By the mid 80’s there were over 280 domestic manufacturers of Solar Products available to pick from.  So we had a big job, to understand what was good, what was bad, what worked, what didn’t.  We had to work our way through all the claims and figure out and understand if this was a good fit for our customer base.

Now in today’s world the market has changed to the point where there are only a few domestic manufacturers of solar in the United States and a lot of the competition in the photovoltaic field and electric field is coming from China simply because they have a government directing their programs.  They understand the benefit of solar and they have a vision, but we have a laissez-faire economy.  And so the nice thing to see is that solar is doing quite well even in a laissez faire economy, but manufacturing costs are very high and we still have a lot more foreign manufacturers to pick from than we have domestic manufacturers.

Net Metering is the term given to the act of selling energy back to the energy companies.  What are your thoughts on their future use?

Well actually, electric generation for home owners and businesses would not really be technically or economically feasible for the great number of our customers without Net Metering.  Net Metering was passed by the California legislature I think it was in 1996 and it was done as an incentive to…it was done as a…you can deregulate the utilities, the utilities can deregulate themselves, as long as they provide Net Metering.  Net Metering is simply the way that people sell energy back to their utility.  They generate power during the day, the utility buys it back from them at the same price they bought it – they bought the energy the last time.  So it is not a good business model for the utilities.  They can’t generate power and buy it back at the same price they sell it, but it really makes the economics here work.

As far as Net Metering’s future is concerned, I think that it’s already been written that only 5% of the customer base can go Net Metered and if that doesn’t change then the solar/electrical applications will really be left for people that want to power their electric vehicles or they want to sell their electricity at a wholesale price.  And if they sell their electricity at a wholesale price, it may be feasible because the price for solar has dropped where that may be a good deal for everybody.

What’s your viewpoint on incentives and rebates? How do they impact the solar industry?

It’s hard to say the word sustainable and then ask for incentives.  When we have a sustainable technology it should be able to offer the benefits that people would expect without having an incentive applied. But this is an industry that will not come into its own at this point without some kind of support from the government.  And what we have seen for instance, the solar industry go to the point now where over 100,000 people are employed in the state of California where as 10 years ago it wasn’t – this couldn’t have happened without some kind of incentive and support.  And also what we have seen happen is because of that support, prices have come down and we are at the point now where we really may not need incentives much longer.

When the current incentives end for solar, we’ll be faced with a market that is very well developed.  People accept solar as an alternative.  Will the pricing be good enough?  We don’t know.  But if the incentives are gone, the tax credits are currently in place until the year 2015 – that’s a huge break for the buyer.  The California rebates are almost all gone and they were scheduled not to be gone until 2016 also, but it’s been so popular in California that the rebates have disappeared almost.  They started out at $4.50 a watt and now they are down to .20 a watt now.  So we are really at a small percentage – its almost ridiculous the size of the rebates compared to what it used to be.

I think the challenge that we face and the challenge that anybody in the solar business faces is to keep costs low enough so people can buy the solar and justify rather than just being green and employing locally and going sustainable.  They are not only doing the good thing, but they are doing the right thing economically.  And if we can get to the point where the tax credits are on the verge of going away, there will be a huge rush of many people that will want to buy solar before its gone and then the market will collapse.  In my opinion, we need to reduce the support slowly and incrementally and predictably as has the state of California with the rebates.  When the Federal Government reduces its support on December 31, 2015, this industry will be in for a big, big shake down.

Who are your target markets and how has that changed over the years?

We have done commercial, and industrial and residential applications, but because this is a business that has been ephemeral and there have been booms and busts, we have mostly concentrated on the small business and residential market place.

Do the jobs get bigger the longer you are in business?

We have done large projects.  In fact in Long Beach we did the smallest system and the largest system.  The largest system up to that point in history was the California community pool and the smallest system was done for my daughter’s science fair project.  But we haven’t gone for the big bang; we aren’t a big union shop.  This is a family owned company and we believe that we can really provide better service by keeping the operations close at hand.

You have run a successful business for almost 40 years.  What advice can you give to young entrepreneurs today who dream of a career in solar energy?

There are so many different levels, it is a business like anything else; there is engineering, there is marketing, there is product development, customer relations.  And if anybody would want to get into solar back when I did, I had to spend two weeks in the library to read every book there was and then there was nobody to give me advice.  But the advice really is, just as any other business, if you can find a school that has a program that teaches you, you can become an installer.  If you want to go to a business school it’s the same business environment we all lived in and so you can get a job with a solar company if you have a business degree.  If you want to become a marketing person, there’s nothing more unusual about marketing solar or selling solar than any other product that’s out there.   Again, we have the internet is a huge resource and it’s not just a matter of tapping somebody on the shoulder and saying can you help me.  You can help yourself.  If you know how to Google, you can get there pretty quickly.

What makes your company different from all other solar energy installation companies?

My favorite topic.  We have the experience, we have the knowhow and we are dedicated.  We want to make sure what we do works because we’ve discovered our best resource for future customers are the ones we are working with today.

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To watch a video of this transcript, please visit http://youtu.be/kQIBPlaFE14

About AMECO Solar
Since 1974, AMECO Solar 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 our website: www.amecosolar.com .

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 3^rdversion 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.

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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:

• Valid contractor’s license and bond, no outstanding complaints.
• Current Worker’s Compensation and General Liability Insurance.
• Pass a background check for liens, civil litigation, bankruptcy and tax defaults.
• Good business credit verified by the Building Industry Credit Association & Experian.
• Provide at least six satisfactory customer references.
• Provide at least three business references, including material suppliers.
• Abide by the League’s Code of Ethics.

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 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.

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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 18^th  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 16^th 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.”

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Did you know that you will probably blow $68,982 to power your home for the next 25 years. That is a car, a swimming pool, even college tuition.

Don’t blow your cash!

Go solar with AMECO – a sun power premiere partner who has been solarizing California since 1974. Who else can say that? Don’t blow your cash! Go solar today. It won’t cost you a thing. Start today by visiting

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.”

Those hot Woodland Hills summers can really do a number on your energy bills. But with our beautiful custom homes, a generic solar solution just won't cut it. A successful solar installation in Woodland Hills requires a deep understanding of local architecture and permitting. It’s about finding one of the best solar energy companies in Woodland Hills, CA, that can tailor a system for your specific needs. This guide will show you how to choose the right partner—one who can help you slash your energy costs and even add solar battery storage in Woodland Hills, CA for true energy freedom.

But the outcome of your solar journey depends heavily on who installs your system. Choosing the best solar company in Woodland Hills requires more than comparing price tags. You need local expertise, proven engineering, strong warranties, and a partner who will be with you for the long haul.

This guide walks you through the most important criteria to consider when selecting a solar installer in Woodland Hills, covering everything from regional climate concerns to storage options and permit requirements.

Is Solar Power a Smart Move for Woodland Hills Homes?

Homeowners in Woodland Hills have some of the most compelling reasons to switch to solar in all of Los Angeles. The local climate and infrastructure create a near-perfect environment for high-performance systems.

Intense summer heat and heavy air conditioning use
Temperatures in Woodland Hills regularly soar above 100°F in the summer. This significantly increases reliance on air conditioning systems, which pushes electricity bills higher than those in coastal Los Angeles neighborhoods.

Time-of-use electricity pricing
Both LADWP and Southern California Edison enforce time-of-use (TOU) billing. That means power used during peak hours—especially late afternoons and evenings—costs significantly more. A well-designed solar system can help you avoid these peak charges by producing and storing energy for use when rates are highest.

Abundant rooftop space and high solar exposure
Many homes in Woodland Hills—particularly those in areas like Walnut Acres, College Acres, or Vista De Oro—have expansive rooftops and few shading obstructions. This makes them ideal for high-efficiency solar installations.

Sustainability and property value
Solar panels not only lower energy bills but also boost the resale value of your home. In a high-value neighborhood like Woodland Hills, buyers increasingly expect modern energy solutions like solar and battery backup systems.

Understanding the Costs and Savings of Going Solar

Let's talk about the numbers. A solar installation is a significant home improvement project, and it’s important to understand the investment and the return. While the exact cost for your home will depend on your energy usage, roof size, and equipment choices, we can look at local averages to get a clear picture of what to expect. For homeowners in Woodland Hills, the financial case for solar is incredibly strong, turning an initial expense into decades of savings and energy independence. Think of it less as a cost and more as a long-term investment in your home's financial future.

Average Solar Panel Costs in Woodland Hills

Based on recent data, a typical home in the area requires a system of about 11.44 kilowatts (kW). The average cost for a system this size in Woodland Hills is around $26,833 before any incentives are applied. This breaks down to about $2.35 per watt. Of course, this is just a starting point. The final price tag depends on factors like the type of panels you choose, whether your roof needs work, and if you decide to add a battery backup system for outage protection. To get a more precise figure for your property, you can use an online estimate calculator or schedule a personalized consultation.

Projected Savings and Payback Period

This is where the investment truly shines. Over a 25-year lifespan, the average Woodland Hills homeowner can expect to save an incredible $203,974 on electricity bills. What does that mean in the short term? Your solar panel system is projected to pay for itself in about six years. This is known as the "payback period." After that milestone, all the energy your system produces is essentially free electricity. For anyone planning to stay in their home long-term, this represents a massive opportunity to eliminate a major monthly expense and redirect those funds toward other financial goals.

Factoring in Rising Electricity Costs

The savings from solar aren't just based on today's utility rates—they're a hedge against future increases. Electricity costs have a long history of rising, and there's no reason to believe that trend will change. When you install solar, you lock in your energy costs for the next 25 to 30 years. You're no longer at the mercy of unpredictable rate hikes from your utility provider. This financial stability is one of the most powerful benefits of generating your own power, giving you control over a critical household budget item and protecting you from market volatility.

Maximizing Your Investment with the Federal Solar Tax Credit

On top of the long-term savings, government incentives can dramatically reduce the upfront cost of going solar. The most significant of these is the Residential Clean Energy Credit, often called the federal solar tax credit. This incentive makes the switch to solar more accessible, but it won't be around forever. Understanding how it works and its deadlines is key to making the most of your investment. A knowledgeable solar partner can help you manage all the necessary paperwork to ensure you receive the full credit you're entitled to.

How the 30% Tax Credit Works and Who Qualifies

The federal solar tax credit allows you to reduce your federal income tax liability by 30% of the total cost of your solar energy system. For a system costing $26,833, that’s a credit of over $8,000. It’s a dollar-for-dollar reduction in the taxes you owe. One crucial detail is that this credit only applies if you purchase your system, either with cash or a solar loan. Homeowners who lease their panels are not eligible to claim the credit. This is a major reason why owning your system is often the most financially advantageous path for residential customers.

Important Deadlines and Budgeting Tips

The clock is ticking on this valuable incentive. The 30% tax credit is set to expire at the end of 2025. To qualify, your solar panel system must be fully installed and operational by December 31, 2025. Since the process—from initial consultation and system design to permitting and installation—can take a few months, it's wise to start planning now. Waiting until the last minute could risk missing out on thousands of dollars in savings. The best first step is to get a professional assessment of your home to build a clear timeline and budget.

How to Choose the Best Solar Company in Woodland Hills

Prioritize Local Experience and Permitting Know-How

The Woodland Hills area presents unique zoning challenges and architectural diversity. Many homes have complex rooflines, clay tile materials, or custom designs. Some properties are also located in hillside zones with stricter permitting rules. The best solar company will be familiar with:

• Local permit workflows through the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety
• Navigating HOA restrictions, especially in communities with design standards
• Custom roof types such as Spanish tile or flat membrane systems

Choosing a company that has worked extensively in Woodland Hills can mean faster permitting, better system design, and fewer construction headaches.

The Value of Choosing a Local Installer

Choosing a solar installer isn’t a one-time transaction; it’s the beginning of a decades-long relationship with the company that powers your home. That’s why selecting a local company is so important. They bring an invaluable understanding of Woodland Hills' specific needs, from its unique architectural styles to its demanding climate. A local installer has a reputation to uphold right here in our community, and they’ll be there for you long after the installation is complete. This is especially true when one team can handle both your solar and roofing needs, which helps you avoid the delays and finger-pointing that can happen when you're juggling multiple contractors. By partnering with a local expert, you’re not just getting a system designed for your home—you’re gaining a reliable partner for the life of your investment.

Verify Experience, Reputation, and Certifications

When you invest in a solar system, you're not just buying panels; you're choosing a partner for the next 25+ years. A company's history is a strong indicator of its reliability. Look for an installer with a long, proven track record in Southern California. A business that has been around for decades has weathered industry changes and is more likely to be there to honor its warranties down the road. Check customer reviews on independent sites like Google, Yelp, and EnergySage to get a feel for real-world experiences. Also, ask about certifications from organizations like the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), which signal a commitment to high standards. A company’s approach should be transparent, showcasing a history of quality work and satisfied clients.

Ask About Subcontractors and Project Accountability

It’s a common practice for solar companies to hire subcontractors for different parts of a project, especially the roofing work. This isn't necessarily a red flag, but it’s something you need to ask about upfront. Find out who will be performing the installation and, more importantly, who is ultimately responsible for the quality of the work. You want a single point of accountability. The last thing you need is a solar installer and a roofer pointing fingers if an issue arises. Companies that handle both roofing and solar installations with their own in-house crews can offer a much smoother, more integrated experience. This ensures everyone is on the same page and that one team is accountable for the entire project from start to finish.

Ask About Their Engineering-Based Design Process

Many solar companies focus primarily on sales. What matters more is engineering. A proper solar company will start with an energy audit and use advanced software like Aurora Solar or Helioscope to:

• Analyze your home’s historical energy usage
• Model system performance based on roof orientation and sun exposure
• Size battery storage correctly to optimize savings under NEM 3.0

Ask for a full technical proposal, not just a general quote. It should include production estimates, degradation over time, savings forecasts, and utility bill offsets.

Evaluate Panel Quality and Thermal Performance

Woodland Hills heatwaves can test the limits of solar equipment. Not all panels perform equally in high temperatures. The best solar installers will recommend:

• Panels with high temperature efficiency ratings and durable coatings
• Inverters with intelligent thermal management and rapid shutdown capability
• Ventilated racking systems that allow airflow underneath panels to prevent overheating

Systems should also be future-ready for smart energy management and battery expansion.

Why You Need Solar Battery Storage Under NEM 3.0

With California’s Net Energy Metering 3.0 policy, solar customers are now compensated far less for excess energy sent back to the grid. This makes battery storage a central part of any modern solar installation.

A quality solar company will:

• Recommend storage systems that meet your home’s energy patterns
• Simulate how storage shifts energy to peak hours under TOU pricing
• Install solutions such as Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery with mobile monitoring

Without storage, the value of solar under NEM 3.0 is reduced. With it, your return on investment dramatically improves.

Inquire About Warranties and Other Energy Upgrades

A solar system is a significant addition to your home, so it’s essential to understand how your investment is protected. When vetting companies, ask for specifics on their warranties. You should expect two types: an equipment warranty from the manufacturer, which typically covers panels and inverters for 10 to 25 years, and a workmanship warranty from the installer. The workmanship warranty covers the installation itself and is a direct reflection of the company's confidence in its work. A strong workmanship warranty shows that the installer stands behind their team and will be there to resolve any issues, giving you peace of mind for years to come.

Beyond warranties, consider the company's full range of services. The best solar partners provide comprehensive energy solutions, not just panels. Do they also handle necessary electrical panel upgrades or install EV chargers? A key advantage is finding a provider that also specializes in roofing. This ensures your roof's integrity is assessed and addressed before panels are installed, preventing future leaks or damage. This integrated approach also applies to future-proofing your system. A forward-thinking installer will design a system that can easily accommodate a battery backup later, ensuring your home is ready for whatever energy needs arise without requiring a costly overhaul.

Verify Licensing, Insurance, and Long-Term Support

At minimum, your solar company should hold:

• A valid California C-46 (solar) or B (general contractor) license
• NABCEP certification for solar installation or system design
• General liability and workers compensation insurance

Beyond paperwork, they should offer robust customer service. Look for companies with:

• Real-time monitoring portals for system performance
• Maintenance support in case of inverter or panel failure
• Clear points of contact for billing, warranty claims, and future upgrades

What to Expect During the Installation Process

Once you’ve selected your solar installer, the journey toward energy independence begins. While a major home project can feel daunting, a professional company manages the entire process, keeping you informed without overwhelming you with technical details. The installation is designed to be thorough, ensuring your system is safe, efficient, and built to last. From the initial paperwork to the moment you start generating your own clean energy, every step is carefully coordinated by a project manager. Knowing what’s coming next can make the experience feel smooth and exciting. Here’s a look at what you can expect after you sign the contract.

From Contract to Activation: A Step-by-Step Guide

After you’ve committed to a solar partner, the project moves from a sales proposal to an engineering reality. The first step is a detailed site assessment where technicians confirm measurements and finalize the system design. This is where an engineering-focused company approach truly shines, as they tailor the plan to your home’s specific needs. Next, your installer handles all the administrative work, including securing permits from the city and ordering your panels, inverters, and mounting hardware. The physical installation usually takes just one to three days. During this time, the crew will prepare your roof, install the racking, mount the panels, and wire the electrical components. The final step is a city inspection to ensure everything is up to code before the utility company grants permission to connect to the grid.

Typical Project Timeline

It’s important to set realistic expectations for the project timeline. While the on-site installation is quick, the entire process from contract to activation typically takes around six months. Don't worry—your roof won't be a construction zone for that long! The bulk of that time is dedicated to behind-the-scenes administrative tasks. The first month is usually spent on final designs and submitting permit applications. The longest phase is often the wait for approvals from your local building department and utility company. Once the permits are in hand, the physical installation is scheduled and completed quickly, followed by a final inspection. The last step is receiving Permission to Operate (PTO) from the utility, which officially allows you to power your home with solar. A great partner keeps residential customers updated throughout these waiting periods.

Why Your Neighbors in Woodland Hills Choose AMECO

Since 1974, AMECO Solar and Roofing has delivered exceptional solar solutions across Los Angeles. We have completed numerous projects in Woodland Hills, adapting systems to its microclimates, custom homes, and utility constraints.

Here is why AMECO stands out in Woodland Hills:

We understand local architecture
From clay tile homes to hillside builds, our in-house engineers and roofers design systems that integrate beautifully with each unique structure.

We handle everything from start to finish
Our team manages site analysis, permitting, installation, and post-installation monitoring. We never outsource key work to unknown subcontractors.

We are experts in solar plus battery
AMECO specializes in helping homeowners design storage systems that dramatically increase savings and energy independence under the NEM 3.0 structure.

We deliver transparency and long-term value
No hidden fees. No pressure sales. Just accurate system modeling, high-efficiency equipment, and warranties that stand the test of time.

What if Rooftop Solar Isn't Right for You?

While rooftop solar is a fantastic solution for many homeowners in Woodland Hills, it’s not a universal answer. Your journey to clean energy should be tailored to your specific situation, and sometimes, that means the best solution isn't installing panels on your own home. If you've explored getting a system and run into obstacles, it’s easy to feel like you’re out of options. The good news is that you’re not. The goal is to find a sustainable energy plan that fits your property, budget, and lifestyle, and there are multiple ways to get there.

Several common scenarios can make a traditional rooftop installation less than ideal. For instance, the condition of your roof is a major factor; if it’s nearing the end of its life, you’d need to replace it before installing panels. Your property might also have significant shading from nearby trees or buildings, which would limit your system's production. Renters, of course, don't have the authority to install a system. Even for homeowners with a perfect roof, the upfront cost can be a hurdle. If any of these situations sound familiar, it’s worth exploring an alternative that is gaining popularity across California.

Exploring Community Solar as an Alternative

Community solar offers a way to benefit from solar power without installing anything on your property. Think of it like subscribing to a large, local solar farm. Instead of owning panels, you claim a share of the energy produced by the project. In return, you receive credits on your monthly utility bill, which lowers your overall electricity costs. This model makes solar accessible to almost everyone, including renters and homeowners with shaded or unsuitable roofs. You can get many of the same financial and environmental benefits as rooftop panels, just through a different approach. It’s also a flexible option, since your subscription isn’t tied to your home, making it easy to join or leave if you move.

Ready for Your Solar Installation in Woodland Hills?

If you are considering solar, start with the most important decision—choosing a company you can trust. At AMECO Solar and Roofing, we help Woodland Hills homeowners save money, increase home value, and reduce reliance on an unstable grid.

Use our free solar calculator to estimate system costs and potential savings. Or schedule a one-on-one consultation with one of our local solar professionals.

You deserve energy independence—and a partner who delivers it with care and expertise.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I keep hearing about NEM 3.0. Do I really need a battery with my solar panels now? This is a great question, and the short answer is yes, a battery is more important than ever. Under the new NEM 3.0 rules, the utility company pays you much less for the extra solar energy you send back to them. A battery lets you store that extra power for yourself. You can then use it during the evening when electricity rates are highest, which maximizes your savings and gives you backup power during an outage. Without a battery, you're giving away valuable energy for pennies; with one, you're keeping it for when you need it most.

The blog mentions a six-month timeline, but the installation is only a few days. What takes so long? It's true, the actual work on your roof is surprisingly fast. The majority of that six-month timeline is spent on essential behind-the-scenes work. This includes a detailed engineering assessment of your home, creating a custom system design, and then handling the permitting process with both the city and your utility company. These administrative steps involve a lot of paperwork and waiting for approvals, which can take several months. A good solar partner manages all of this for you and keeps you updated, so you don't have to worry about the logistics.

My roof might need some work. Is it better to find a separate roofer, or can a solar company handle that too? This is a common situation, and it's smart to address it before installing panels. While you could hire two separate companies, it's often much smoother to work with a single partner who specializes in both roofing and solar. When one team handles everything, there's no risk of miscommunication or finger-pointing if a problem occurs. They can assess your roof's condition, make any necessary repairs or replacements, and then install the solar system, ensuring the entire project is seamless and covered under one warranty.

I've heard solar is a big investment. What's a realistic payback time for a home in Woodland Hills? It's definitely an investment, but it's one that pays for itself. For a typical home in Woodland Hills, you can expect the solar panel system to pay for itself in about six years. After that point, the energy you generate is essentially free electricity for the rest of the system's 25-plus-year lifespan. When you consider the high summer AC bills in the area and rising utility rates, locking in your energy costs provides significant long-term financial savings and stability.

There are so many national solar companies. Why is it so important to choose an installer with specific experience in Woodland Hills? Choosing a local expert can make a huge difference in the quality of your project. An installer familiar with Woodland Hills understands the unique challenges, like our specific architectural styles, clay tile roofs, and local permitting rules with the city of Los Angeles. This local know-how helps avoid delays and ensures your system is designed perfectly for your home and our climate. Plus, a local company has a reputation to maintain in our community, so they are more invested in your long-term satisfaction and will be right here if you ever need service.

Key Takeaways

• Capitalize on the local climate: Woodland Hills' intense summer heat and time-of-use utility rates make solar a powerful financial tool; a well-designed system directly counters high air conditioning costs and peak electricity prices.
• Prioritize integrated expertise: Select a company that manages both roofing and solar with its own in-house teams, as this single point of accountability prevents common project delays and ensures the quality of your entire energy system.
• Incorporate battery storage for true independence: Under California's NEM 3.0, a solar battery is a necessity, not a luxury. It allows you to store your own energy for use during expensive peak hours, significantly increasing your return on investment and providing outage protection.

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With its endless sunshine and focus on sustainability, it's easy to see why so many Camarillo homeowners are going solar. But this isn't just a one-time purchase. It's a 25-year commitment. The real question isn't just about panels, but who you'll call in year 10 if something goes wrong. Finding the best solar energy companies in Camarillo means finding a partner you can trust for the long haul. We'll show you how to look past the initial sale and identify the top solar panel companies in Camarillo built to support you for decades.

But finding the best solar company in Camarillo is not a one-size-fits-all answer. From ranch-style homes in the Las Posas Estates to suburban developments near CSU Channel Islands, your solar installation must be tailored to your property, energy needs, and long-term financial goals.

This guide breaks down exactly what Camarillo homeowners need to consider when choosing a solar installer—covering technical factors, incentive programs, long-term value, and why AMECO Solar & Roofing is a trusted name in Ventura County.

Why Go Solar in Camarillo?

Camarillo sits just 10 miles from the Pacific, with an average of over 280 sunny days per year, mild winters, and some of the most stable weather patterns in the region. But there's more to solar feasibility than sunshine.

Camarillo's Unique Solar Benefits

1. Rising Energy Costs
Southern California Edison (SCE) rates have increased by over 30 percent in the last five years. Solar helps Camarillo residents lock in lower energy costs, especially during peak afternoon and evening hours under time-of-use (TOU) billing.

2. Large Residential Roof Space
Homes in neighborhoods like Village at the Park and Sterling Hills often feature expansive rooftops perfect for high-output solar arrays.

3. Solar-Friendly Building Code
Camarillo complies with California’s Title 24 code, encouraging the integration of solar in new builds and remodels. Permitting through the City of Camarillo Building & Safety Division is generally streamlined, especially with an experienced contractor.

4. Sustainable Living Culture
The city’s commitment to open space preservation and its proximity to green agriculture make renewable energy a natural fit.

How to Choose the Best Solar Company in Camarillo

Let’s unpack the key areas that distinguish exceptional solar providers from basic installers.

The Broader Energy Context in California

California is leading the solar movement, and for good reason. Homeowners across the state are switching to solar to lower their energy bills and embrace sustainability. The cost for solar panels in California is competitive, making it a practical investment for many families. This is made even more attractive by the federal solar tax credit, which typically saves homeowners about 30% on installation costs—that’s an average of $7,500 back in your pocket. As our state's energy needs grow, driven by everything from summer air conditioning to new data centers, solar remains a smart financial choice. In fact, building new solar and wind power is now cheaper than building new natural gas and coal plants, proving that green energy is also the most economical path forward.

Understanding the Costs and Savings of Solar in Camarillo

Talking about the cost of a solar installation can feel a bit like asking, "How much does a car cost?" The answer depends entirely on what you need. The size of your home, your family's energy consumption, and the specific equipment you choose all play a role in the final price. However, we can look at local averages to get a solid starting point. The key is to view solar not as a simple expense, but as a long-term investment in your home's value and your financial future. The upfront cost is just one part of the equation; the real story is in the decades of savings on your electricity bills and the valuable incentives available to help you get started.

The most accurate way to understand your potential investment and savings is with a personalized assessment. A professional consultation will analyze your roof, your past utility bills, and your future energy goals to design a system that’s just right for you. Many homeowners are surprised to learn how quickly a solar system can pay for itself, especially with rising electricity rates in Southern California. You can get a preliminary idea of your costs by using an online estimate calculator, which can provide a helpful baseline before you speak with an expert.

Average System Costs and Payback Period

To give you a clearer picture, let's look at the numbers for a typical Camarillo home. According to recent data, the average homeowner in the area needs a 7.63-kilowatt (kW) solar system. Before any incentives, a system of this size costs around $18,426. While that number might seem significant, the return on investment is where solar truly shines. Over a 25-year period, that same homeowner can expect to save an incredible $93,480 on electricity bills. This means the system typically pays for itself in about eight years, leaving you with nearly two decades of pure energy savings.

Of course, these are just averages. Your home might need a smaller or larger system, which will affect both the initial cost and your long-term savings. That's why our approach always begins with a detailed analysis of your specific needs. We design a custom solar solution that maximizes your energy production and financial returns, ensuring your investment works as hard as possible for you from day one.

Financial Incentives and Important Deadlines

The good news is that you don't have to cover the full cost of a solar installation on your own. Both the federal government and the state of California offer powerful financial incentives to encourage homeowners to switch to clean energy. These programs can dramatically reduce your net cost and shorten your payback period, making solar more accessible than ever. It's important to be aware of these programs, as they can evolve over time. Working with an experienced solar installer ensures you can take full advantage of every credit and rebate you're eligible for.

The 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit

One of the most significant incentives available is the Residential Clean Energy Credit, commonly known as the federal solar tax credit. This program allows you to deduct 30% of the total cost of your solar installation from your federal taxes. For an average system in Camarillo, that could mean a tax credit of over $5,500. This isn't a simple deduction from your income; it's a dollar-for-dollar credit that directly reduces the amount of tax you owe. This 30% credit is available for solar systems installed through 2032, giving you a great window of opportunity to make the switch.

California's SGIP Rebates for Battery Storage

Beyond the federal tax credit, California offers its own incentives, most notably the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP). This program provides substantial rebates for homeowners who add a battery backup system to their solar installation. A battery allows you to store the excess energy your panels generate during the day for use at night or during a power outage. This not only increases your energy independence but also provides peace of mind, knowing your lights will stay on when the grid goes down. The SGIP rebate makes adding this valuable technology more affordable.

How to Choose the Best Solar Company in Camarillo

Once you understand the financial benefits, the next step is finding the right partner to bring your solar project to life. Choosing a qualified solar installer is one of the most critical decisions you'll make. The quality of the installation directly impacts your system's performance, longevity, and your overall savings. A great company does more than just put panels on your roof; they provide expert guidance, use high-quality materials, and offer robust warranties to protect your investment for decades. You want a team that understands the local landscape, from city permitting to specific weather patterns.

Look for a company with a long history of service and deep expertise in both solar and roofing. Since solar panels are integrated with your roof, having a contractor who understands both systems is a huge advantage. It prevents potential issues and ensures the structural integrity of your home is maintained. A reputable installer will have a transparent process, excellent customer reviews, and a commitment to designing a system tailored to residential customers' unique needs. They should be your trusted advisor, helping you make informed decisions every step of the way.

1. Look for Deep Local Expertise

Solar in Camarillo is not the same as in Santa Monica or Bakersfield. A quality installer will understand:

• How to navigate Ventura County’s regional building standards
• How to design systems around tile roofs, Spanish architecture, or flat roofs common in the area
• Which transformers and substations SCE uses for local net metering interconnection
• What HOAs in places like Mission Oaks typically allow or restrict

A company with this level of local expertise will save you time, reduce project delays, and avoid costly redesigns.

2. Prioritize Engineering Over Sales Pitches

The best solar company does not sell cookie-cutter systems. It starts with a site-specific solar analysis, including:

• Roof orientation and shading modeling using tools like HelioScope and Aurora Solar
• Structural analysis to ensure roof integrity
• Energy usage profile over 12+ months
• Tariff optimization under NEM 3.0 to ensure battery usage aligns with TOU peak times

If a company skips this and jumps straight to the quote, that’s a red flag.

3. Check Their Equipment and Storage Solutions

Not all solar panels or inverters are equal. Camarillo’s coastal humidity, heat, and salt-laden air make durability essential. Look for:

• Tier 1 solar panels from trusted brands like REC, Q CELLS, or Silfab
• Enphase IQ8 microinverters for maximum panel-level performance
• Energy storage solutions like Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery 5P, which integrate with TOU plans

Ask about degradation rates, weatherproofing, and if your panels meet UL 61730 and IEC 61215 standards for performance and longevity.

4. Ask About Equipment and Workmanship Warranties

A solar system is a decades-long investment, so its warranties are your long-term protection. Every installation should come with two distinct types. The first is the equipment warranty, which comes directly from the manufacturers of your panels and inverters. Most high-quality solar panels include a 25-year performance guarantee, ensuring they produce a certain amount of power over their lifespan, while a product warranty covers physical defects. It's crucial to understand what each solar warranty covers, as this protection is tied to the manufacturer, not the installer. Ask your potential installer which brands they use and what those specific equipment warranties entail.

The second, and arguably more important, guarantee is the workmanship warranty. This is your installer’s promise that their team did the job right. It covers issues related to the physical installation, such as leaks, loose racking, or faulty wiring. A typical workmanship warranty lasts around 10 years, but a top-tier company that stands behind its work will often offer 25 years. This is a huge indicator of quality and stability. After all, a long-term warranty is only valuable if the company is still around to honor it. A contractor with decades of experience provides peace of mind that your investment is secure for the long haul.

4. A Clear Grasp of California's NEM 3.0

Under California’s new net billing system, the export value of solar energy has changed dramatically. Camarillo homes can still save significantly—if your system is sized and timed correctly.

The best solar company will:

• Size your system to match daytime usage rather than overproducing
• Include batteries to store excess power and discharge it during peak-rate hours
• Help you forecast your ROI with and without storage using accurate utility modeling

If your installer cannot show you year-by-year savings projections based on your SCE plan, they’re not serious about maximizing your financial return.

5. Demand Clear Pricing and Real Local References

Your solar contract should include:

• All-in pricing (equipment, labor, permitting, warranties)
• Ownership details (especially for leased or PPA systems)
• Projected break-even year and internal rate of return (IRR)
• Clean financing options (loans, cash, or hybrid)

Beware of sales teams that overpromise savings or hide financing terms. A reputable company will gladly connect you with Camarillo homeowners they have previously served and walk you through real examples of system performance and satisfaction.

6. Get Multiple Quotes and Check Reviews

Never settle for the first quote you receive. It’s a good practice to gather at least three different proposals to compare costs, equipment, and system designs. According to a study by EnergySage, comparing multiple offers can help you save up to 20% on your total installation cost. Once you have the quotes, dig into customer reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau. Look for patterns in feedback related to communication, professionalism, and how the company handles issues after the installation is complete. A few negative reviews aren't a dealbreaker, but consistent complaints about project delays or poor customer service should be taken seriously.

7. Verify Certifications and Ask About Subcontractors

A reputable solar installer should be fully licensed and insured. In California, this typically means holding a C-10 Electrical license or a C-46 Solar Contractor license. You should also look for installers with certifications from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), which is the gold standard for technical expertise in the solar industry. It’s also crucial to ask who will be performing the installation. Some companies subcontract the work, which can lead to a disconnect in quality and accountability. Companies with dedicated, in-house crews often provide a more seamless and reliable installation process from start to finish.

8. Understand Your Financing Options

Most homeowners don’t pay for a new solar system entirely in cash. A good solar company will walk you through all the available financing options, including solar loans and cash purchases, helping you find a solution that fits your budget. Many installers can structure a loan so that your monthly payment is roughly equivalent to what you’re already paying for your electricity bill, making the switch financially manageable from day one. Be sure to ask for a clear breakdown of any loan terms, including the interest rate, dealer fees, and total cost over the life of the loan. A transparent partner will help you calculate your long-term savings without any hidden surprises.

What to Expect After Your Solar Installation

Once your solar panels are on the roof and producing power, your relationship with energy changes. The system will handle most of the work automatically, but a little awareness goes a long way in maximizing your investment. You’ll start monitoring your energy production and consumption, likely through a mobile app, which helps you see exactly how much power your home is generating and using in real time. This new insight often encourages small behavioral shifts, like running high-power appliances during peak sun hours, that can further reduce your reliance on the grid and lower your bills even more.

Managing High-Power Appliances

Your new solar system is powerful, but it has its limits. Certain high-draw appliances, like older central air conditioners, electric water heaters, or pool pumps, can consume more energy than your panels produce at a given moment, especially on cloudy days. This is where smart energy management comes in. By staggering the use of these appliances or running them when the sun is strongest, you can avoid drawing expensive power from the grid. For true energy independence, especially during peak evening hours or outages, pairing your system with a battery backup solution like a Tesla Powerwall is the best strategy to ensure you always have the power you need.

Other Services to Consider

Choosing a solar installer that offers more than just panel installation can save you a lot of hassle down the road. Comprehensive energy companies often provide a suite of related services to help future-proof your home. For example, since solar panels are mounted on your roof, it makes sense to work with a company that also has deep roofing expertise. This ensures your roof’s integrity is protected during and after the installation. A full-service provider can become your long-term partner for all things related to your home’s energy and structural health, creating a single point of contact for any future needs.

EV Charger Installation

As electric vehicles become more common in Camarillo, many homeowners are choosing to install a home charging station at the same time as their solar system. This is an incredibly efficient pairing, as it allows you to power your car with the clean energy you produce right on your rooftop. Fueling your EV with sunshine is significantly cheaper than paying for gasoline or even charging with grid electricity. Ask your solar installer if they can bundle an EV charger installation with your project for a streamlined and cost-effective upgrade.

System Repair and Maintenance

While solar panel systems are designed to be durable and low-maintenance, you’ll want a reliable partner for long-term support. Over the 25+ year lifespan of your system, you may need to have panels temporarily removed and reinstalled for a roof replacement, or you might need a service call to diagnose a performance issue. A company with a long-standing history and a dedicated service department provides peace of mind that help will be available if you ever need it, ensuring your system continues to operate at peak performance for decades.

Who Are the Top-Rated Solar Installers in the Area?

When you search for solar installers in Camarillo, you’ll find a mix of large, national brands and established local companies. While the big names have widespread brand recognition, they aren’t always the best choice for your home. National companies often come with higher overhead costs, which get passed on to you, and may rely on third-party subcontractors for the actual installation. This can sometimes lead to a less personal experience and a lack of accountability if issues arise. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of both before making a final decision for your home.

Comparing Local vs. National Solar Companies

Research consistently shows that local installers offer significant advantages. A study from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory found that large, national installers are, on average, about 10% more expensive than local solar companies. Local installers, like AMECO Solar & Roofing, have a deeper understanding of Camarillo’s specific building codes, HOA requirements, and the local utility’s interconnection process. They are also more accountable to the community they serve, often providing more personalized customer service and direct access to their expert teams. Choosing a local company with decades of experience in Southern California ensures you’re working with a team that is invested in your long-term satisfaction.

Why AMECO is a Top Solar Installer in Camarillo

With over 50 years of solar leadership, AMECO is more than an installer—we are energy consultants, roofing experts, and long-term partners in your clean energy journey.

Our Commitment to Camarillo Homeowners

• Extensive Ventura County Project Portfolio
  We have installed and maintained solar systems for homes throughout Camarillo, including complex hillside properties and HOA communities.
• Licensed Roofing Expertise
  Our in-house roofing team ensures solar installations are watertight and backed by full roof warranties—especially critical for clay tile and low-slope roofs.
• Battery and Backup Specialists
  We help Camarillo clients configure smart storage systems that offset TOU costs, manage outage protection, and even support partial home backup during PSPS events.
• Turnkey Project Management
  From site audit to PTO (permission to operate), we handle everything in-house. No subcontracting. No dropped calls. Just professional project coordination.
• High-Skill Local Team
  Our NABCEP-certified professionals, engineers, and project managers are based in Southern California. We live here. We work here. We are committed to your long-term results.

Ready to See Your Solar Potential in Camarillo?

Choosing solar is a major decision—and the company you partner with makes all the difference.

At AMECO, we do more than install panels. We help Camarillo homeowners understand their energy use, protect their roof, and build long-term savings that last for decades.

You can begin by estimating your savings using our free Solar Cost Calculator or speak directly with a solar advisor for a custom analysis.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is solar still a good investment in California with the new NEM 3.0 rules? Absolutely, but the strategy has shifted. Under the new net billing system, the focus is on using the solar energy you generate yourself rather than selling a large surplus back to the grid. A well-designed system, often paired with a battery, allows you to store your daytime solar power for use during the evening when electricity rates are highest. This approach can still lead to significant long-term savings and greater energy independence.

Why should I choose a company that specializes in both solar and roofing? Think of it as protecting your entire home. Your solar panels and your roof are an integrated system, and an installation error can lead to serious problems like leaks. When your installer is also a licensed roofing expert, they understand how to mount the solar array without compromising your roof's integrity. It also gives you a single point of contact and accountability for two of your home's most critical assets, ensuring both are covered under a comprehensive warranty.

What's the real difference between a workmanship warranty and an equipment warranty? An equipment warranty comes from the manufacturer of the panels and inverters; it covers defects in the actual products themselves, usually for 25 years. A workmanship warranty, on the other hand, is the installer's promise that they installed everything correctly. It covers issues like faulty wiring or leaks caused by the installation. A long workmanship warranty is a sign of a confident, high-quality installer who plans to be around to support their work for decades.

Do I need a battery backup system with my solar panels? While not strictly required, a battery is highly recommended for most Camarillo homeowners today. A battery allows you to store excess solar energy generated during the day to power your home at night, which is essential for maximizing your savings under NEM 3.0. It also provides invaluable peace of mind by keeping your essential appliances running during a power outage, a common concern in Southern California.

How can I get an accurate cost estimate for my home? Online calculators are a fantastic tool for getting a preliminary idea of your potential costs and savings. However, a truly accurate quote requires a professional assessment. A solar expert will analyze your past electricity bills, evaluate your roof's size, orientation, and any shading issues, and discuss your future energy goals. This detailed analysis ensures the system is designed specifically for your home's needs, giving you a precise and reliable financial picture.

Key Takeaways

• Look beyond the initial quote: A solar system is a long-term asset, so prioritize companies that offer high-quality equipment and can clearly explain your payback period, especially when factoring in the 30% federal tax credit.
• Insist on a custom, local approach: The right installer for Camarillo knows the local landscape, from city permits to specific neighborhood rules. A proper solar design starts with a detailed analysis of your home's roof and energy use, not a generic sales pitch.
• Choose a partner with proven stability: Your installer's workmanship warranty is only as good as the company behind it. Select an established provider with in-house roofing and battery expertise to ensure your investment is supported for its entire lifespan.

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With its sunny climate and beautiful hillside homes, it's easy to see why Agoura Hills solar is becoming so popular. If you're thinking about making the switch, you're on the right track to saving money and adding serious value to your home. But it's not just about panels. You need a team that understands our community's specific needs, from local permits to the condition of your roof. This guide will show you what to look for in a partner, whether you need a top-tier Agoura Hills roofing company or the best residential solar panels in Agoura Hills, CA.

But here's the challenge: how do you find the best solar company in Agoura Hills—one that understands the local landscape, offers top-tier equipment, and delivers service you can count on for decades?

This guide will help you cut through the noise and make a confident, well-informed decision. We will cover essential criteria, local considerations, and how AMECO Solar & Roofing is helping Agoura Hills homeowners go solar the smart way.

Why Your Neighbors in Agoura Hills Are Going Solar

Agoura Hills offers ideal conditions for solar energy. With an average of more than 275 sunny days each year and some of the highest electricity rates in California, solar power is not just a sustainable choice—it’s a smart financial investment.

Local benefits include:

• Strong daily sunlight exposure, ideal for photovoltaic performance
• High property values that benefit from solar system upgrades
• Compatibility with California’s property tax exclusion for solar
• Support from energy-conscious community initiatives

Whether you live in Old Agoura, Morrison Ranch, or up in the hills near Malibu Creek State Park, a solar installation can reduce your utility bills and increase your energy independence.

Understanding Solar Costs and Incentives in Agoura Hills

Let's talk about the bottom line. Investing in a solar system is a significant financial decision, but it's one that pays you back over time. For homeowners in Agoura Hills, the combination of high electricity rates and abundant sunshine creates a powerful financial case for going solar. The initial cost can seem daunting, but federal and state incentives are designed to make it much more accessible. Think of it less as an expense and more as a long-term investment in your home's value and your energy independence. Understanding the costs and the available financial aid is the first step toward making a smart, confident choice for your home.

Average System Costs and Savings

To give you a clear picture, homeowners in Agoura Hills typically need a system around 11.68 kilowatts (kW) to cover their energy needs. The average cost for a system this size is about $29,331 before any incentives are applied. While that number might seem high, the long-term savings are substantial—potentially over $133,000 on electricity bills over 25 years. Most solar systems in the area pay for themselves in under nine years, after which you’re essentially generating free power from the sun. Of course, every home is different, so it's always a good idea to get a personalized quote. You can use an estimate calculator to get a preliminary idea of your specific costs and savings.

On a broader scale, the average cost of solar panels in California hovers around $2.77 per watt. This figure is a useful benchmark when you start comparing quotes from different installers. The final price will depend on the specific equipment you choose, the complexity of the installation, and the quality of the components. A lower price per watt isn't always better if it means compromising on panel efficiency or the installer's experience. A reputable company will walk you through the options and explain how the equipment they recommend provides the best value for your investment over the long run.

Key Financial Incentives Available

One of the most significant financial perks for going solar is the Federal Solar Tax Credit, also known as the Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This allows you to claim a credit equal to 30% of the total cost of your solar system on your federal income taxes. This isn't just a deduction; it's a dollar-for-dollar reduction of the taxes you owe, which dramatically lowers the net cost of your installation. The credit applies to both the solar panel system and any accompanying battery storage, making a comprehensive energy solution more affordable than ever.

If you're looking to add a battery for backup power, California offers another great incentive called the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP). This program provides rebates for installing battery storage systems, which help you keep the lights on during blackouts and get the most out of your solar panels. Combining the SGIP rebate with the federal tax credit makes adding a battery an incredibly smart move for Agoura Hills homeowners who want to ensure their energy supply is reliable and uninterrupted, no matter what's happening with the grid.

Planning Your Agoura Hills Solar System

Designing the right solar system for your home goes beyond just numbers; it’s about creating a solution that fits your lifestyle, your property, and your future energy goals. A one-size-fits-all approach simply doesn’t work. Your system needs to be tailored to your home's unique energy consumption patterns, the orientation of your roof, and even your long-term plans, like whether you intend to buy an electric vehicle. This is where working with an experienced solar partner becomes invaluable. A thorough consultation will ensure your system is designed for optimal performance and savings for decades to come.

Sizing Your System with the 20% Rule

A helpful guideline for planning your system size is the "20% rule." This principle suggests designing your solar panel system to produce about 20% more energy than your household currently consumes. This extra capacity acts as a valuable buffer, ensuring you have enough power on less sunny days or during periods of higher-than-usual energy use. More importantly, it future-proofs your investment. If you decide to purchase an electric car, install a hot tub, or add a new air conditioning unit down the line, your system will be ready to handle the increased demand without needing a costly expansion.

Understanding Panel Efficiency

When you start looking at solar solutions, you'll hear a lot about panel efficiency. This rating simply tells you how effectively a solar panel converts sunlight into usable electricity. Panels with higher efficiency ratings can generate more power from a smaller surface area. While they often come with a higher upfront cost, they are an excellent choice for homes with limited or partially shaded roof space, as they maximize the energy output from the available area. A knowledgeable solar consultant can help you weigh the costs and benefits to select panels that provide the best performance and value for your specific roof and budget.

What to Look For in an Agoura Hills Solar Installer

Choosing the right solar installer means looking beyond flashy ads or quick quotes. Here is what truly matters.

1. Do They Understand Local Permitting?

Agoura Hills presents unique installation challenges due to hillside lots, custom roofing materials, and aesthetic considerations governed by HOA rules and local ordinances. A quality solar company will:

• Know the local permitting process inside and out
• Be familiar with the city’s sustainability goals and energy codes
• Customize installations that blend well with your home’s architecture

A company with local roots can also speed up the permitting timeline and handle complications more efficiently than a national chain.

The SolarAPP+ Process

To streamline the process, Agoura Hills uses SolarAPP+, an online tool that makes getting permits for standard home rooftop solar systems much faster. Think of it as an automated checker that instantly verifies if a solar design meets all the necessary building, electrical, and fire safety rules. Instead of submitting paper plans and waiting weeks for a manual review, your installer can input the system details and get an immediate response. This doesn't skip any safety steps, though. A city inspector will still visit your home to perform a final inspection and confirm everything was built correctly.

Project Eligibility and Exclusions

It's important to know that SolarAPP+ is designed for typical residential projects, and some installations don't qualify. If your project is more complex, it will need to go through the traditional permit process to ensure every detail is reviewed. Projects that are generally excluded from the expedited SolarAPP+ process include residential systems larger than 38kW, solar installations that are paired with an Electric Vehicle (EV) charger, and any systems installed on multi-family buildings like apartments. Additionally, all commercial solar projects follow a different permitting path. This is where having an experienced partner really pays off; they'll know exactly which process your project requires and manage it efficiently from the start.

2. Demand Clear Pricing and Timelines

A trustworthy solar installer will give you more than a flat price. They will present a full breakdown of costs, show you projected energy savings, explain how NEM 3.0 affects your system, and outline how long the project will take from start to finish.

Expect your quote to include:

• Cost of panels, inverters, and mounting systems
• Labor, permitting, and inspection fees
• Estimated energy production and savings
• Financing terms and cash vs loan comparisons

For a personalized estimate based on your Agoura Hills home, try our Solar Cost Calculator.

Why You Should Get Multiple Quotes

When you’re making a significant investment in your home, like installing a solar system, getting multiple quotes is a non-negotiable step. Think of it as your due diligence. It’s the best way to ensure you’re getting a fair price, high-quality equipment, and a partner you can trust for the long haul. I always recommend aiming for at least three quotes to get a solid understanding of what different companies offer.

Comparing proposals helps you understand the current market rates for solar installation in Agoura Hills. According to the solar marketplace EnergySage, choosing a good installer is critical to making sure your system performs well and saves you money. By seeing a few different price points, you can spot any outliers—whether they’re unusually high or suspiciously low—and make a more informed decision.

A quote should be more than just a number. A trustworthy installer provides a detailed breakdown of costs, projected energy savings, and an explanation of how policies like NEM 3.0 will affect your return on investment. This transparency is key. It shows the company has done its homework and is committed to helping you understand the true value of your system, not just selling you panels.

Finally, multiple quotes allow you to compare the quality of equipment and service. Look for companies that use their own installation teams and offer robust, long-term warranties of 25 years or more. Every home in Agoura Hills is unique, and gathering different proposals helps you find an installer who offers a customized solution that fits your specific energy needs and the unique architecture of your home.

3. Ask About Panel Quality and Warranties

Quality solar equipment is key to long-term savings. Reputable companies will recommend:

• Tier 1 panels with high efficiency and degradation resistance
• Smart inverters with monitoring capabilities
• Batteries that store solar energy for use at night or during outages

Warranties should be strong and straightforward. Look for:

• At least 25 years on panels
• 10 to 12 years on inverters
• Workmanship warranty of 10 years or more

The installer should be able to clearly explain how your equipment will perform, how it integrates with your existing electrical system, and what happens in case of a power outage or grid failure.

4. Will Your System Include Battery Backup?

With NEM 3.0 changing the way energy is credited in California, battery storage has moved from optional to essential. In Agoura Hills—where many homes are large and often rely on HVAC or pool systems—storage can protect against both peak pricing and blackouts.

Your solar company should:

• Offer battery options that match your usage profile
• Model projected savings with and without storage
• Help you take advantage of any available storage rebates or tax credits

5. Check for Proper Licensing and Insurance

Working with a licensed contractor is non-negotiable. In California, this means:

• An active CSLB C-46 or B license
• NABCEP-certified solar professionals on staff
• Proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance

Without these protections, homeowners can be exposed to liability or receive substandard workmanship.

6. Look for Support After Your System Is On

Solar is not just a one-time transaction—it is a 25+ year relationship. The best companies offer:

• Ongoing system monitoring and performance reports
• Help with warranty issues or system upgrades
• Easy-to-reach support staff and knowledgeable technicians

Avoid companies that disappear after the install is complete. Choose a team committed to supporting your system for decades.

7. Inquire About the Installation Crew

The best solar panels in the world won't perform well if they're installed incorrectly. The team that shows up at your door is critical, especially in Agoura Hills, where hillside lots and custom roofs can complicate the job. Ask if the installers are in-house employees or subcontractors—an in-house team often means more accountability and consistent quality. A company with deep expertise in both roofing and solar is a major advantage, as they can ensure your system is installed without compromising your home's integrity. Don’t forget to check for credentials. A reputable installer will have a team that is fully licensed (CSLB C-46 or B) and insured, with NABCEP-certified professionals on staff. Make sure they provide proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance, which protects you from liability during the installation.

Why Agoura Hills Homeowners Choose AMECO Solar & Roofing

For over five decades, AMECO Solar & Roofing has helped Southern California homeowners take control of their energy future. Our experience in Agoura Hills means we understand the specific needs of local homeowners—from hillside permitting to aesthetic integrations that comply with HOA standards.

With AMECO, you get:

• Highly experienced, in-house installation teams
• Customized proposals, not one-size-fits-all systems
• Premium solar equipment and battery options
• Roofing expertise for solar re-roofs or integrated installs
• No high-pressure sales tactics—just honest, expert guidance

Get Your Free Agoura Hills Solar Quote

Whether you are exploring your options or ready to move forward, we are here to help. Use our free solar calculator to estimate your savings, or reach out for a one-on-one consultation with a local expert.

Take the first step toward energy freedom. With AMECO Solar & Roofing, Agoura Hills homeowners have a trusted partner for the long haul.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I size my solar system to produce 20% more energy than I currently use? Think of that extra 20% as a smart buffer for your future. Your energy needs will likely grow over time, especially if you plan to buy an electric vehicle, add a pool, or upgrade your air conditioning. Designing your system with this extra capacity from the start means you won't have to go through a costly and complicated expansion later on. It ensures your investment continues to meet your needs for decades.

Is it really that important for my solar installer to also be a roofing expert? Absolutely. Your solar panels are mounted directly onto your roof, which is your home's primary shield against the elements. A company with deep expertise in both solar and roofing understands how to install the system without compromising your roof's integrity. This prevents potential leaks and structural issues down the road, ensuring both your solar system and your home are secure for the long haul.

With the new NEM 3.0 rules, is a battery backup system really worth it? Yes, for most homeowners in California, a battery has become essential. Under NEM 3.0, the utility company pays you much less for the extra solar energy you send back to the grid. A battery allows you to store that excess power for your own use during the evening or on cloudy days. This maximizes your self-sufficiency, drastically reduces your reliance on the grid, and protects you from blackouts.

What happens if my project is too complex for the faster SolarAPP+ permit process? This is quite common for larger systems or unique properties, and it's nothing to worry about when you work with an experienced installer. A seasoned local company will be completely familiar with the traditional permitting process in Agoura Hills. They will handle all the necessary paperwork and inspections to ensure your project moves forward smoothly, even if it requires a more detailed review.

Besides the final price, what makes a solar quote a good one? A good quote is all about transparency. It should provide a clear, itemized breakdown of all costs, including panels, inverters, labor, and permit fees. It should also include a detailed projection of your energy savings over 25 years, a clear explanation of all warranties, and a realistic timeline for the project. You should feel like you have a complete picture of your investment, not just a single number.

Key Takeaways

• Choose an installer who knows Agoura Hills: A local partner will handle the unique permitting rules, hillside installation complexities, and specific roofing needs of our community, ensuring a smoother and faster project.
• Size your system for tomorrow, not just today: Aim for a system that generates about 20% more power than you currently use. This smart buffer accounts for future needs like an electric car or new appliances, so you will not have to upgrade later.
• Add a battery to maximize your savings: Under California's NEM 3.0 rules, battery storage is key. It allows you to store the solar energy you generate during the day and use it during expensive peak hours or blackouts, giving you control over your power and your bills.

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Going solar is a fantastic decision for your home and your wallet, especially with Southern California's high electricity rates. But the success of your project doesn't just depend on the panels—it depends on the people installing them. Choosing the wrong team can turn a smart investment into a long-term headache. To find the best solar installation company in Thousand Oaks, you need to look beyond surface-level reviews. We’ll walk you through how to spot a truly reliable partner with the experience and warranties to back up their work.

This guide offers a deep dive into what makes a solar installer truly stand out in Thousand Oaks. From local experience to technical certifications, from product warranties to energy storage options, we will walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed, confident decision for your home.

Why Your Thousand Oaks Home is Perfect for Solar

Before we get into selecting the right provider, it is important to understand why solar energy is a particularly smart investment for homeowners in Thousand Oaks.

High solar potential: Thousand Oaks enjoys over 280 sunny days per year. The region's favorable climate translates into excellent solar panel efficiency and a high return on investment.

Rising electricity rates: Homeowners served by Southern California Edison (SCE) have seen rates increase significantly in recent years. Installing solar panels can offset these rising costs, especially when paired with battery storage under California's Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0).

Strong state and federal incentives: Homeowners who install solar may qualify for the federal solar investment tax credit (currently at 30 percent), as well as other local incentives and property tax exclusions.

Environmental leadership: Thousand Oaks has long been known for its environmental stewardship. By going solar, residents directly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing clean energy goals in Ventura County.

The Financial Case for Going Solar in Thousand Oaks

Beyond the environmental benefits, the numbers behind a solar investment in Thousand Oaks are incredibly compelling. Think of it less as an expense and more as a long-term strategy to reduce your household costs and build equity. With electricity rates consistently on the rise, generating your own power allows you to take control of your energy future. The financial incentives, combined with the sheer amount of sunshine in Southern California, create a perfect storm for significant savings. When you look at the data, it becomes clear that going solar isn't just a good idea—it's a smart financial move that pays dividends for decades.

Understanding Your Potential Savings

The long-term financial upside of installing solar panels is substantial. According to local industry data, "Over the life of solar panels, Thousand Oaks residents can save $60,000 to $100,000." This isn't a small figure; it represents a major reduction in one of your largest monthly expenses. These savings are realized over the 25-plus-year lifespan of your solar system as you generate your own clean electricity instead of purchasing it from the utility company. To get a clearer picture of what this could mean for your specific home, you can use an estimate calculator to project your potential savings based on your current energy usage and roof configuration.

Average System Cost and Payback Period

While every home is different, it's helpful to look at averages to understand the initial investment. Research from EnergySage notes, "Homeowners usually need a 9.34 kW solar system. This system costs about $21,519 before any special offers or incentives... The solar system typically pays for itself in about 6.65 years." The payback period is the point where your accumulated energy savings equal your initial investment. After that, every kilowatt-hour your system produces is pure savings. Because system size, roof condition, and energy needs vary, a personalized consultation is the best way to get an accurate quote and understand your specific payback timeline. A company's approach should always involve a custom design to maximize your long-term savings.

California's Energy Challenges

Living in California comes with a unique set of energy-related challenges that make solar power particularly valuable. From some of the highest electricity rates in the nation to the persistent threat of grid instability and power outages, homeowners are increasingly looking for reliable and affordable alternatives. Solar energy, especially when paired with battery storage, offers a direct solution to these problems. It provides a path to greater energy independence, shielding your family from unpredictable rate hikes and ensuring the lights stay on when the grid goes down. This is about more than just saving money; it's about securing peace of mind for your household.

Rising Electricity Costs

It’s no secret that energy costs in our state are high and getting higher. As one report highlights, "Californians pay about $220 per month for electricity, which is 34% higher than the national average." Installing a solar solution is one of the most effective ways to protect your budget from these volatile and ever-increasing utility rates. By producing your own power, you effectively lock in your energy costs for the life of your system. This insulates you from future price hikes and gives you predictability in your monthly expenses, a welcome relief for any homeowner's budget. It’s a proactive step toward financial stability in an unpredictable energy market.

The Impact of Power Outages

For many Californians, power outages are a frustratingly common part of life, whether due to grid maintenance, extreme weather, or Public Safety Power Shutoffs. A standard solar panel system is designed to shut down during a grid outage to protect utility workers, meaning you'll still lose power. However, there's a powerful solution. As experts point out, "With a battery system, your home or business can still have power when the main electricity grid goes down." Pairing your solar panels with a battery backup system allows you to store excess solar energy and use it to keep your essential appliances running, providing true energy independence and security when you need it most.

How to Find the Best Solar Company in Thousand Oaks

Choosing the right solar partner is about more than just price. Here are the core qualities that separate top-tier solar companies from the rest.

Start by Gathering Multiple Quotes

Your first step in finding the right solar installer is to shop around. Don't just settle for the first company you find. The general rule of thumb is to get at least three quotes from different solar installers to compare your options. A comprehensive quote should be more than just a price tag; it should detail the specific panels and inverters they plan to use, provide warranty information for both the equipment and the labor, and give you a clear project timeline. This process helps you understand the market rate and identify any outliers that seem too good—or too expensive—to be true. Getting a preliminary idea of costs can also be helpful, which is why many companies offer an estimate calculator to give you a ballpark figure before you even schedule a consultation.

Comparing Local vs. National Installers

When you gather quotes, you’ll likely encounter both large national chains and smaller local companies. While big names have brand recognition, they aren’t always the best choice. In fact, a study from EnergySage found that national solar companies are often about 10% more expensive than local ones. Local installers, on the other hand, bring an invaluable understanding of Thousand Oaks' specific building codes, permitting processes, and weather patterns. They also tend to offer more personalized customer service because their reputation is built right here in our community. Choosing a company with deep roots in Southern California means you're partnering with a team that is invested in the area and accountable to its neighbors.

Check Third-Party Reviews and Rankings

Once you have a few quotes in hand, it’s time to do some homework. Online reviews are a powerful tool for seeing past a company's marketing materials. As the experts at SolarReviews suggest, you should check reviews on independent sites like Google, Yelp, and SolarReviews to see how companies actually treat their customers. Look for feedback that covers the entire process, from the initial sales consultation to the final installation and post-project support. A company with decades of experience should have a long public record of customer feedback. This history gives you a much clearer picture of their consistency, reliability, and commitment to quality over the long haul, which is exactly what you want for a long-term investment like solar.

How to Interpret Customer Reviews

Reading reviews is a bit of an art. It’s important to look for patterns rather than getting swayed by a single glowing or scathing review. Be aware that some companies may encourage positive reviews, so the most helpful feedback is often the most detailed. Look for reviews that describe the entire customer journey, mention specific team members by name, or explain how the company handled an unexpected issue. Did they communicate clearly when a permit was delayed? Were the installers respectful of the homeowner's property? These details paint a much more realistic picture of what it’s like to work with the company and reveal their true standard of customer care.

Understanding Installer Tiers and Ratings

Beyond individual reviews, many third-party sites rank installers based on objective criteria. For example, EnergySage evaluates companies on three key pillars: Results, Reputation, and Responsiveness. "Results" refers to the quality and volume of their completed installations. "Reputation" covers their time in business, licensing, and industry certifications. "Responsiveness" measures how quickly and effectively they communicate with potential customers. A top-tier installer will score well across all three categories. When you evaluate a company, consider how their business practices align with these principles. A transparent and consultative company approach, combined with a long history of successful projects, is a strong indicator that you’ve found a reliable partner.

1. Choose a Team That Knows Local Permitting

A solar company with local experience understands the nuances of Thousand Oaks zoning laws, HOA regulations, and the permitting process with the City of Thousand Oaks and Ventura County. This can dramatically shorten project timelines and reduce surprises during inspections.

Experienced local installers often have relationships with inspectors, utility personnel, and city officials, which means smoother communication and faster approvals.

Questions to ask:

• How many projects have you completed in Thousand Oaks?
• Are you familiar with local building codes and HOA requirements?

2. Confirm They're Licensed, Insured, and Certified

Always verify that your solar contractor holds an active license with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB). Look for companies with:

• A C-46 Solar Contractor license or a B General Contractor license
• NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certifications
• General liability insurance
• Workers’ compensation coverage for their crews

These credentials demonstrate that the company meets professional, legal, and safety standards. Do not risk working with unlicensed subcontractors or companies without coverage.

Look for a Company with Proven Longevity

Your solar panels are designed to last for 25 years or more, so your relationship with your installer should be just as long-term. When you choose a solar company, you're trusting them to be there for you down the road to honor warranties and provide service if needed. A company with a proven track record is more likely to have stable business practices and a commitment to customer satisfaction. As the experts at EnergySage note, selecting a high-quality installer is crucial for ensuring your system performs well and saves you money over its lifetime. A company that has been around for many years has demonstrated its ability to deliver on its promises and support its customers long after the installation is complete.

Beyond long-term support, a company with deep roots in the community offers immediate practical advantages. Installers who have been operating for decades have established relationships with local utility companies and city permitting offices. This experience helps your project move smoothly from design to activation without unnecessary delays. For example, at AMECO, we've been serving Southern California since 1974. That history gives us a deep understanding of the specific requirements in places like Thousand Oaks, ensuring a seamless process for our customers. A company's longevity isn't just a number; it's a reflection of their expertise, reliability, and dedication to the community they serve.

3. Insist on Transparent Pricing and Proposals

High-quality solar companies provide detailed quotes that break down:

• Equipment costs (panels, inverters, racking, batteries)
• Installation labor and permitting fees
• Projected energy production and savings over time
• Payback period and return on investment (ROI)

They should also explain financing options clearly, including cash purchases, solar loans, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and leases. There should be no pressure tactics or hidden fees.

If a company cannot answer detailed questions about the economics of solar, they may not be the right fit.

To estimate your own costs, try our Solar Panels Cost Calculator.

Be Wary of Unusually Low Prices

Everyone loves a good deal, but a rock-bottom price on a solar installation should raise a red flag. A solar system is a long-term investment in your home, not a disposable gadget. Companies offering unusually low prices might be cutting corners on equipment quality, installation standards, or even employee training. As some experts warn, a company with an unsustainable pricing model might not be around in five or ten years to honor your warranty or service your system. This could leave you with an expensive problem and no support. Choosing a provider with a long history of stability is one of the best ways to protect your investment for the decades to come, ensuring you have a partner for the entire life of your system.

Ask About Hidden Fees in Solar Loans and Leases

When you finance your solar system, it’s crucial to look beyond the monthly payment. Some solar loan providers include "dealer fees," which are essentially hidden finance charges that can inflate the total cost of your project by 20% or more. Always ask for a clear comparison between the cash price and the total financed price to see the full picture. A trustworthy installer will be upfront about all costs and help you understand the fine print of any loan or lease agreement. They should walk you through every line item so you know exactly what you’re paying for, ensuring there are no surprises down the road for your residential solar project.

4. Prioritize High-Quality Panels and Warranties

Not all solar panels and inverters are created equal. The best solar companies offer:

• Tier 1 solar panels from manufacturers like REC, Q CELLS, or Canadian Solar
• Microinverters or string inverters from trusted brands like Enphase or SolarEdge
• Energy storage options like the Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery

Also pay attention to warranties. Look for:

• A minimum 25-year performance warranty on solar panels
• A minimum 10-year workmanship warranty on installation
• Inverter and battery warranties that match your usage expectations

A reputable company will walk you through the pros and cons of different equipment types and make product recommendations based on your roof, budget, and energy goals.

Key Metrics for Solar Panel Quality

The quality of your equipment directly impacts your system's performance and longevity. When a company talks about offering "Tier 1" panels, they're referring to products from large, financially stable manufacturers known for their investment in research and automated production. Brands like REC and Q CELLS fall into this category, representing a lower risk and a higher likelihood of the manufacturer being around to honor its warranty. Just as important are the inverters, which convert the DC power from your panels into the AC power your home uses. Top-tier installers will offer trusted inverter brands like Enphase or SolarEdge, ensuring your entire system operates efficiently. A great company will always prioritize providing high-quality solar solutions, not just the cheapest option available.

Look for Production Guarantees and Strong Warranties

Warranties are your safety net, protecting your investment for decades. A 25-year performance warranty is the industry standard for panels, guaranteeing they will still produce a specified percentage of their original power after 25 years of use. However, the most critical guarantee is the workmanship warranty. This covers the installation itself—the wiring, racking, and sealing of your roof. A minimum 10-year workmanship warranty shows that a company stands behind its team's work. A company with a long history, like AMECO's 50 years of service, provides extra peace of mind that they'll be there to honor those long-term commitments. This is a key part of our approach to ensuring every customer feels secure in their investment.

5. In-House vs. Subcontracted: Who Installs Your Panels?

Some solar companies outsource installation to third-party crews. While that may lower costs, it can also result in inconsistent quality and accountability issues. Ask if the company uses in-house teams for:

• Site assessments and system design
• Roofing work (if applicable)
• Installation and wiring
• Final inspections and support

In-house teams ensure a higher standard of workmanship and better customer support throughout the life of the system.

Verify Manufacturer Endorsements

Think of a manufacturer endorsement as a seal of approval directly from the companies that create the solar panels and inverters. When a top-tier brand gives an installer their blessing, it means that installer has met strict standards for training, quality, and customer service. It’s a powerful indicator that the company is trusted to install high-quality equipment the right way, protecting your investment and the product warranties. A great installer will be proud to share their partnerships with leading manufacturers. This endorsement ensures the team working on your roof has the specific expertise needed for the products they’re using, which is crucial for the long-term performance and reliability of your entire solar system.

6. Ask About Battery Storage and Energy Management

With California’s evolving net metering policy (NEM 3.0), battery storage is more important than ever. Solar batteries allow homeowners to:

• Store excess solar energy for use during evening peak rates
• Improve backup power reliability during outages
• Maximize the financial benefit of their solar system under time-of-use (TOU) billing

Ask your solar provider about the cost and value of battery storage in your area. A knowledgeable company should run load analysis models and explain how solar-plus-storage affects your long-term savings.

Maximize Your Return Under NEM 3.0

California's energy landscape shifted with the Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0). Under this structure, the financial return on your solar investment is no longer just about how much energy you produce, but about *when* you use it. This is where integrating a battery backup system becomes a financial game-changer. By storing the free, clean energy your panels generate during the sunny afternoon, you can power your home through the evening when grid electricity rates are at their highest. This strategic use of your own stored energy directly reduces your reliance on the utility company and can lead to substantial savings on your monthly bills. To get this right, you need a partner who understands how to model your home's specific energy consumption. A knowledgeable company will perform a detailed load analysis to recommend a solar and storage system that truly maximizes your long-term savings, which is a core part of our approach to every project.

7. What Support Can You Expect After Installation?

Solar is a 25 to 30-year investment. The best companies remain involved long after the panels are turned on. Post-installation services may include:

• Ongoing system monitoring (with mobile app access)
• Troubleshooting and support from local technicians
• Annual system checks or performance audits
• Assistance with warranty claims and repairs

Choose a company that will be around for the long haul and offers clear support channels.

Why AMECO Solar & Roofing Is Our Go-To in Thousand Oaks

At AMECO Solar & Roofing, we have been helping Southern California homeowners transition to clean energy since 1974. With over 50 years of experience, our team brings an unmatched level of expertise, transparency, and personal service to every project.

Here is what sets us apart:

• Deep experience in Thousand Oaks and surrounding cities
• In-house design and installation teams
• Premium solar panel and battery options
• Thorough proposals and transparent pricing
• Long-term service and monitoring included
• Roofing expertise for solar plus re-roof projects

Our goal is not just to install panels, but to build a lasting energy partnership with every customer we serve.

Ready to Make the Switch to Solar?

Whether you are just starting your research or are ready to move forward, we are here to help you make an informed decision.

Use our free solar cost calculator to see how much you could save or speak with one of our experienced solar advisors today.

Take control of your energy future with AMECO—one of the most trusted and experienced solar companies in Thousand Oaks.

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What to Expect from the Installation Timeline

So you've signed on the dotted line—congratulations! While the actual installation on your roof is surprisingly quick, usually taking just one to three days, the full process from start to finish spans several weeks. It begins with a final site assessment and system design. From there, your installer handles the permitting process with the City of Thousand Oaks and your HOA, which is often the most time-consuming step. Once permits are approved, the installation crew gets to work. Afterward, a final inspection by local authorities is required before your utility gives the official "Permission to Operate" (PTO). The good news is that a professional installer manages this entire process for you, keeping you updated every step of the way so there are no surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Besides price, what's the single most important thing to look for in a solar company? Look for a company's history. A solar system is a 25-year investment, so you want a partner who will be around to support it. A company with decades of experience in your local area has proven its stability and understands the specific permitting and building codes. This longevity is a strong indicator that they stand behind their work and will be there to honor warranties years down the road.

Is it okay to go with the cheapest quote I get? A surprisingly low price can be a warning sign. Often, companies offering rock-bottom prices are cutting corners, perhaps by using lower-quality panels, subcontracting labor to less experienced crews, or not having the financial stability to honor long-term warranties. A good solar installation is an investment in your home's value and your energy future, so prioritizing quality and reliability over the lowest initial cost will save you headaches and money in the long run.

Do I really need a battery system with my solar panels in California? While not strictly required, adding a battery is a very smart financial move under California's current Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0). A battery allows you to store the excess solar power you generate during the day and use it at night when electricity rates are highest. This maximizes your savings and gives you greater energy independence. Plus, it provides invaluable backup power to keep your lights and essential appliances running during a grid outage.

My roof is getting old. Should I replace it before getting solar panels? Yes, it is highly recommended. Your solar panels are designed to last for 25 years or more, and removing them to replace a roof later is a complex and costly process. If your roof has less than 10 to 15 years of life left, it makes financial sense to address it before the solar installation. Working with a company that specializes in both roofing and solar can streamline this process, ensuring your roof is perfectly prepared for a secure, long-lasting solar system.

How long does the entire solar installation process take from start to finish? While the physical installation on your roof is usually completed in just one to three days, the entire process from signing the contract to getting permission to operate can take several weeks or even a few months. The longest phase is typically waiting for permits from your city and approval from the utility company. A professional installer will manage this entire timeline for you and keep you informed at every stage, so you know exactly what to expect.

Key Takeaways

• Vet for longevity and local expertise: A truly reliable solar partner has a long history in your community, ensuring they understand local permits and will be around to honor their warranties for the life of your system.
• Focus on value, not just the price tag: A quality installation depends on more than cost. Confirm your installer uses top-tier equipment, is fully licensed, and provides a strong workmanship warranty to protect your investment.
• Plan for energy independence with battery storage: To get the most financial benefit under California's NEM 3.0 policy and gain protection from outages, integrating a battery with your solar panels is a crucial part of a modern solar strategy.

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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.

The Cost of Solar Panels in California in 2025

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:

• A 6 kW system (suitable for small homes with low energy needs) costs between $15,000 and $21,000 before incentives.
• A 10 kW system (common for larger homes) costs between $25,000 and $35,000 before incentives.
• A 15 kW system (for high energy consumers or partial off-grid homes) costs between $37,500 and $52,500 before incentives.

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.

Breaking Down the Cost by Home Size in 2025

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:

1. Small Homes (Under 1,500 Sq Ft)

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:

• $12,500 to $24,500 before incentives
• $8,750 to $17,150 after the 30% federal tax credit

2. Medium-Sized Homes (1,500 to 2,500 Sq Ft)

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:

• $17,500 to $35,000 before incentives
• $12,250 to $24,500 after the tax credit

3. Large Homes (2,500+ Sq Ft)

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:

• $25,000 to $52,500 before incentives
• $17,500 to $36,750 after the tax credit

Factors That Influence Solar Costs in California

1. Electricity Rates and Savings Potential

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.

2. Solar Panel Type and Efficiency

Not all solar panels are created equal. The type of panels you choose affects the total cost and efficiency of your system:

• Monocrystalline Panels: Most efficient (~22%) and longest lifespan but higher cost.
• Polycrystalline Panels: Slightly lower efficiency (~18%) but more affordable.
• Thin-Film Panels: Lightweight and flexible but lower efficiency, suitable for unique roof structures.

Higher efficiency panels reduce the number of panels needed, which can lower overall installation costs.

3. Roof Structure and Installation Complexity

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.

4. Solar Battery Storage

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.

5. Incentives and Financing Options

Federal Tax Credit (ITC)

• The 30% ITC remains in place, reducing system costs significantly.

California State and Local Incentives

• SGIP (Self-Generation Incentive Program): Provides rebates on battery storage systems.
• Property Tax Exemption: Solar installations do not increase property tax assessments in California.
• Utility-Specific Rebates: Some utilities still offer rebates, but these are becoming rarer under NEM 3.0.

Solar Financing

Homeowners can install solar through multiple financing options:

• Cash Purchase: Maximum savings over time.
• Solar Loans: No upfront cost, payments similar to or lower than utility bills.
• Power Purchase Agreements (PPA) or Leases: Low to zero upfront cost, but lower long-term savings.

Long-Term Savings and ROI

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:

• A 6 kW system can save $60,000+ over its lifetime.
• A 10 kW system can save $90,000+ over 25 years.
• A 15 kW system can save $120,000+, especially for high-consumption homes.

With financing options and rebates, the payback period ranges between 5-9 years, after which homeowners enjoy nearly free electricity.

Final Thoughts: Is 2025 a Good Year to Go Solar in California?

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.

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Opening your power bill can feel like a gut punch, especially in California. The average California electric bill seems to climb higher every year, leaving you wondering where it will stop. While the state is a leader in renewable energy, those high costs are a real burden for homeowners. This guide is here to help. We'll break down the typical average California electricity bill by home size and utility provider. We'll also look at why costs are so high and show you how solar can offer a path to lower, more predictable energy bills.

What Goes Into Your California Electric Bill?

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.

Understanding Your Bill's Structure

Fixed vs. Variable Charges

When you look at your California electric bill, it’s helpful to see it in two parts: fixed and variable charges. The fixed charge is a set monthly fee you pay just for being connected to the grid. Think of it as a service fee that covers the cost of your meter and the basic infrastructure needed to deliver power to your home. This amount stays the same no matter how much electricity you use. The variable charge, however, is directly tied to your consumption. It covers the cost of both generating the electricity and then bringing it to your home through transmission and distribution lines. This is the part of your bill that fluctuates each month, and it’s often driven up by statewide expenses like grid upgrades and wildfire mitigation efforts. Understanding this distinction is the first step toward taking control of your energy costs.

Who Provides Your Power in California?

1. Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) – Serving Northern and Central California.
2. Southern California Edison (SCE) – Serving much of Southern California.
3. San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) – Covering the San Diego area.

Each utility provider operates under a regulated pricing system, which includes tiered rates and time-of-use (TOU) plans.

What Drives Up Your Electricity Costs?

• Regulations: California's aggressive push for renewable energy has led to investments in infrastructure, increasing costs.
• Time-of-Use Rates: Electricity costs vary by the time of day, with peak hours being more expensive.
• Weather and Wildfires: Frequent wildfires and heatwaves drive up maintenance and emergency response costs.

California's High Electric Costs: A Closer Look

Why California's Electricity Rates Are So High

If you've ever looked at your electric bill and felt a bit of sticker shock, you're not alone. California has some of the highest electricity costs in the country, with rates often climbing above 30 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). A big part of this comes down to infrastructure. Maintaining and upgrading our state's massive electric grid is a huge, expensive job. On top of that, utility companies are investing heavily in wildfire prevention measures, and these significant costs are passed directly on to consumers like us. It’s this combination of necessary investments and state policies that keeps our monthly bills on the rise.

Comparing California to the National Average

To put it in perspective, the average monthly electric bill in California often lands between $200 and $250, while the U.S. average is considerably lower. This means many of us are paying nearly double what homeowners in other states pay for power. While California's commitment to renewable energy is a positive step for the environment, the transition has contributed to these higher consumer costs. The state's ambitious clean energy goals require substantial investment in new technologies and grid updates, and those expenses are reflected in the rates set by utility providers.

Future Cost Projections and Long-Term Impact

Unfortunately, this upward trend in electricity costs shows no signs of slowing down. Projections indicate that rates in California will likely continue to increase by 3-6% each year for the foreseeable future. For homeowners, this could mean average monthly bills approaching $500 in the coming years, creating a significant and ongoing financial strain. Relying solely on the grid means being subject to these unpredictable and ever-increasing prices. This is why many Californians are choosing to take control of their energy costs by producing their own power, creating long-term stability and independence from utility rate hikes.

What's the Average California Electric Bill for Your Home?

Electric bills in California vary significantly based on home size, energy usage patterns, and efficiency measures. Below is a breakdown by square footage:

Small Homes (500-1,000 sq ft)

• Average Monthly Bill: $50 - $100
• Key Drivers: Small homes typically consume less energy, especially if energy-efficient appliances are used. However, heating and cooling costs can spike in extreme weather conditions.
• Potential for Savings: Adopting solar panels can drastically reduce bills for homes with low energy consumption.

Medium Homes (1,500-2,500 sq ft)

• Average Monthly Bill: $150 - $250
• Key Drivers: Larger homes use more electricity for HVAC systems, lighting, and household appliances.
• Potential for Savings: Installing energy-efficient appliances and adopting TOU plans can lower costs. Solar panel installation is especially cost-effective for medium-sized homes.

Large Homes (3,000+ sq ft)

• Average Monthly Bill: $300 - $500+
• Key Drivers: High energy usage for HVAC systems, pool equipment, and other amenities contributes to large bills.
• Potential for Savings: Solar adoption is highly recommended for large homes to offset significant energy consumption.

Average Monthly Bills in Major California Cities

Your monthly electric bill doesn't just depend on the size of your home; where you live in California also plays a huge role. Different cities have different utility providers, local energy demands, and infrastructure needs, all of which influence the final price you pay each month. To give you a clearer picture, here’s a look at the typical monthly electricity costs across some of the state's major urban areas.

• Los Angeles: Approximately $145
• San Francisco: Around $135
• San Diego: About $165
• Sacramento: Roughly $140
• Fresno: Close to $130

You'll notice that costs can vary quite a bit, with cities like San Diego often seeing higher bills due to factors like infrastructure investments and local demand. These regional differences highlight how much of your monthly energy expense is determined by factors completely outside of your control. This uncertainty is a major reason why many homeowners are taking charge of their energy production. When you install solar panels, you can create a more predictable energy budget and gain independence from fluctuating utility rates, no matter which city you call home.

How Your Utility Provider Affects Your Bill

Electricity rates and average bills differ across California’s major utility providers:

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E)

• Rates: $0.30 - $0.40/kWh (varies by tier and TOU plan)
• Typical Bill for Medium Homes: $200 - $300/month
• Notable Features: Offers TOU plans that reward off-peak energy use.

Southern California Edison (SCE)

• Rates: $0.28 - $0.38/kWh
• Typical Bill for Medium Homes: $180 - $280/month
• Notable Features: Provides rebates for energy-efficient appliances.

San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E)

• Rates: $0.35 - $0.45/kWh
• Typical Bill for Medium Homes: $220 - $320/month
• Notable Features: Higher rates compared to PG&E and SCE but offers robust solar incentives.

What Really Influences Your Electric Bill?

Several factors influence electricity bills in California, including consumption patterns and energy-saving measures.

1. Time-of-Use (TOU) Rates

• During peak hours (typically 4 PM - 9 PM), rates are significantly higher.
• Shifting energy use to off-peak times (e.g., running dishwashers at night) can lead to substantial savings.

2. Seasonal Variations

• Summer months see higher bills due to increased air conditioning usage.
• Utility companies may also impose seasonal rate changes.

3. Energy-Efficient Appliances

• Investing in ENERGY STAR-rated appliances can lower overall consumption and reduce bills.

High-Consumption Devices like EVs

Making the switch to an electric vehicle is a fantastic move for the environment, but it can bring a surprise to your monthly utility statement. Electric vehicles require a substantial amount of energy to charge, and if you plug in during peak hours (usually 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.), you could see a significant spike in your bill. Managing your charging schedule is a great first step, but to truly get ahead of the costs, pairing your EV with a home solar system is the ultimate solution. By generating your own clean electricity, you can power your car with the sun. Adding a battery backup system allows you to store that solar energy and charge your vehicle anytime, day or night, without relying on the grid’s expensive peak rates.

Simple Upgrades for Big Savings

You don’t always need a major overhaul to see a difference in your electric bill. A few simple upgrades can lead to significant savings over time. Start by swapping out old incandescent bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs, which use at least 75% less energy and last much longer. Investing in ENERGY STAR-rated appliances is another smart move that can lower your overall consumption. Smart thermostats are also a game-changer, as they learn your habits and automatically adjust the temperature to save energy when you're away or asleep. While these changes may seem small, they empower you to take control of your energy usage and chip away at those high California electricity bills.

4. Home Energy Audits

Think of a home energy audit as a check-up for your house. It’s a professional assessment that pinpoints exactly where your home is wasting energy and costing you money. An expert will inspect your home from top to bottom, looking for inefficiencies you might never notice on your own. This can include checking for air leaks around windows and doors, assessing the quality of your insulation, and evaluating the performance of your heating and cooling systems. An audit provides a clear, prioritized list of what needs fixing, giving you a roadmap to a more efficient and comfortable home. It takes the guesswork out of lowering your bills and helps you make informed decisions about where to invest in improvements.

The insights from an energy audit are invaluable. You might discover that your attic insulation has settled over the years or that your older windows are a major source of heat loss. These hidden issues force your HVAC system to work overtime, driving up your energy consumption. At AMECO, our consultation process serves a similar purpose. When we design a solar solution, we start by understanding your home's unique energy profile and structural characteristics. This holistic approach ensures that your system is perfectly sized for your needs and that we identify any underlying issues, like an aging roof, that should be addressed to maximize your energy savings for years to come.

Finding Hidden Energy Loss

One of the biggest culprits of high energy bills is hidden energy loss. Many homes, especially older ones, lose a surprising amount of heated or cooled air through poorly insulated walls, attics, and crawl spaces. Your roof is another critical area. An old or poorly maintained roof can be a major source of thermal transfer, making it harder and more expensive to keep your home comfortable. An energy audit is designed to uncover these exact problems. By addressing them—whether by adding insulation, sealing air leaks, or investing in professional roofing solutions—you can significantly improve your home's energy efficiency and see a real drop in your monthly bills.

4. Solar Panel Adoption

• Homes with solar panels can offset electricity costs significantly, especially when paired with battery storage solutions. Learn more about solar solutions at Ameco Solar.

FAQ: Common Questions About California Electric Bills

Why are California's electricity rates so high?

Rates are influenced by wildfire mitigation costs, infrastructure upgrades, and investments in renewable energy.

What is the best way to reduce my electric bill?

Consider TOU plans, energy-efficient appliances, and solar panel installation.

Can solar panels eliminate my electric bill?

While solar panels can drastically reduce bills, most homeowners still pay a small monthly fee to remain connected to the grid.

What are TOU rates, and how can I benefit?

TOU rates charge less for electricity used during off-peak hours. Adjusting your energy usage patterns can lead to savings.

Financial Assistance and Rebates to Lower Your Bill

Even with smart energy habits, high electricity bills can strain a household budget. The good news is that you don't have to face these costs alone. California offers several assistance programs for immediate relief on your monthly statements, and significant federal tax credits are available to make long-term solutions like solar energy more affordable than ever. These programs are designed to provide a financial bridge, whether you need help with your bill today or are planning a major home energy upgrade for tomorrow. Understanding which options you qualify for is the first step toward taking control of your energy expenses and building a more sustainable future. This support system acknowledges that while California leads in green energy, the transition can be costly for individual homeowners. By taking advantage of these programs, you can align your personal finances with the state's environmental goals, making clean energy a win-win. From direct monthly discounts to substantial tax reductions for installing solar, the financial tools are in place to support your journey. We'll break down the key state and federal programs available, explaining who qualifies and how to apply, so you can confidently find the assistance that best fits your family's needs and start saving money.

California State Programs

The state has established two primary programs to help residents with energy costs, both based on household income. These are direct discounts applied to your monthly utility bill, providing immediate savings if you qualify. It’s worth checking the income guidelines annually, as they can change. These programs, CARE and FERA, are administered by your utility company on behalf of the state, making the application process straightforward. They are specifically designed to provide a safety net for those most impacted by high energy rates, ensuring that essential electricity remains affordable. Unlike one-time rebates, these programs offer consistent, monthly savings that can add up to a significant amount over the year, providing predictable relief to your budget.

CARE (California Alternate Rates for Energy)

The California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program offers a substantial discount of 30% to 35% on electricity for eligible low-income households. This program provides direct, monthly relief to those who need it most, making a real difference in your budget without requiring any changes to your home. Eligibility is typically based on the number of people in your home and your total gross annual income, or if you are enrolled in other public assistance programs. You can learn more about the specific requirements and apply through the California Public Utilities Commission website, which has all the details you need to get started.

FERA (Family Electric Rate Assistance Program)

If your income is just a little too high for CARE, you might be eligible for the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. Designed for households whose income is slightly above the CARE limits, FERA provides an 18% discount on your monthly electricity usage. This program helps bridge the gap for families who still feel the pressure of high energy costs but don't qualify for the larger discount. It’s a great way to get some financial breathing room without having to make major lifestyle changes. You can usually find the application on your utility provider's website, like SDG&E, which has details on how to apply.

Federal Tax Credits: The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)

Beyond state-level discounts, the federal government offers a powerful incentive to help homeowners invest in clean energy. The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) provides a tax credit that acts as a dollar-for-dollar reduction in your federal income tax liability, making the upfront cost of a solar installation much more manageable. This credit applies to the total cost of a new system, including solar panels, labor, and even battery backup systems, which are crucial for maintaining power during blackouts.

This tax credit is a game-changer for homeowners looking to make a long-term investment in their energy future. By reducing the initial financial barrier, it helps you start saving on your electric bills sooner. A trusted installer can help you understand how to take full advantage of this credit. A properly designed solar solution not only lowers your monthly expenses but also increases your home's value and your energy independence. It’s a key piece of the puzzle for making sustainable energy an accessible reality.

Using Solar to Lower Your California Electric Bill

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.

Why Going Solar Makes Sense in California

• Reduced Bills: Solar systems can offset up to 90% of your electricity costs.
• Incentives: Federal and state tax credits make solar adoption more affordable.
• Environmental Impact: Reduce your carbon footprint while saving money.

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.

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Can Solar Panels Eliminate My Electric Bill?

This is one of the most common questions I hear, and the short answer is: almost. While solar panels can dramatically reduce your monthly electricity costs, most homeowners will still have a small bill from their utility company. Think of it less as an energy bill and more as a connection fee. This small, predictable charge covers the cost of maintaining your connection to the grid, which provides a reliable backup for your power. After switching to solar, you’re essentially trading a large, fluctuating utility bill for a much smaller, more stable one. To achieve even greater energy independence, you can pair your solar solutions with a battery backup system, which allows you to store excess energy for use at night or during an outage, getting you as close as possible to a zero-dollar bill.

Calculating Your Solar Payback Period

The "payback period" is simply the time it takes for your solar system to pay for itself through energy savings. In California, thanks to our abundant sunshine and high electricity rates, this timeline is surprisingly short. For homeowners who purchase their system outright, the payback period can be as little as four years. After that, every kilowatt of energy your panels produce is pure savings. Your specific payback period will depend on your system's cost, your average energy consumption, and the incentives you use. Our estimate calculator can give you a personalized projection and show you just how quickly your investment can start generating free, clean energy for your home for decades to come.

Understanding California's Net Billing Policy

California's "net billing" policy determines how you're compensated for the extra solar energy you send to the grid. During the day, your panels might produce more electricity than your home needs. This surplus power is sent back to your utility, and you receive a credit for it. However, under the current policy, the credit you receive for exporting energy is lower than the price you pay to import it. This makes self-consumption the smartest strategy. This is where a battery backup system becomes a game-changer. It allows you to store your excess solar energy and use it during the evening instead of selling it back to the grid for a lower rate, maximizing your savings and energy independence.

Key Takeaways

• Your bill reflects more than your usage: Statewide costs for grid maintenance and wildfire prevention are passed on to you, causing rates to rise regardless of how much energy you try to save.
• Take immediate steps to reduce costs: You can find savings right away by using appliances during off-peak hours, upgrading to energy-efficient models, and seeing if you qualify for state assistance programs like CARE and FERA.
• Create your own predictable energy with solar: Installing solar panels is the most powerful way to lock in your energy costs for the long term. Pairing them with a battery gives you true energy independence, protecting you from rate hikes and blackouts.

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