With movements like CleanPowerSF and other programs and incentives developed by the city of San Francisco, there is no doubt that it is one of the leaders in the renewable energy movement for the Bay Area and beyond. The city fully supports the idea that renewable energy resources like solar, wind, geothermal, and hydro power are essential to the sustainability of our future as a country and a planet. In fact, Mayor London Breed is so passionate about shrinking the city’s impact that she has made a very aggressive goal to completely eliminate San Francisco’s carbon footprint by 2050.
How will the city reduce their dependence on natural gas and other pollutants? By requiring any new buildings in 2030 and beyond to be net-zero carbon emitters and other dramatic tactics, encouraging more efficient electrical appliances, promoting shared or cleaner transportation (like electric cars and bicycles), and providing incentives for residential and commercial renewable energy systems.
By embracing renewable energy solutions like solar panels and more, San Francisco has already successfully reduced their greenhouse gas emissions by 30% compared to the levels in 1990. That stands alongside a major growth in population as well.
Going Solar Can Help the Planet & Your Wallet
Sometimes it feels like going green or reducing your carbon footprint requires significant sacrifice. While it's true that it is a change of lifestyle, reducing your carbon footprint doesn’t mean you have to give up comfort or even suffer financial loss because of it. That’s the beauty of going solar.
So how much can you save with solar panels in San Francisco? It depends. First, you could be looking at significant savings on the cost of installation simply by taking advantage of local rebates, tax credits, and incentive programs.
Some of the options available to SF residents include:
- The Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which allows you to deduct 26% of the system installation costs from your federal taxes.
- City of San Francisco - Solar Energy Incentive Program (GoSolarSF) offers residential homeowners who install solar panels rebates ranging from $300 to $650 per KW, with different incentive levels based on system size, location, and other factors.
- The Single-family Affordable Solar Housing incentive allows qualifying low-income homeowners to get cash incentives when installing solar systems (managed by GRID Alternatives).
The Upfront Cost vs. the Long Term Savings
Though there will be some upfront investment on your part with solar installation on your home, the long term benefits are definitely worth it -- including financial savings, grid independence, and a spike in the value of your property. What could be better than cutting back on greenhouse gases while saving money? It may sound too good to be true, but we promise it isn’t.That’s why countless customers in the area have already trusted Semper Solaris to install solar panel systems on their homes.
If you are interested in talking to a solar contractor in San Francisco about reducing your carbon footprint with solar panels, Semper Solaris is always ready to provide insight. Get started by filling out a simple learning more about our services in San Francisco!
