Solar Power San Diego | Solar Panels, Battery Storage, Roofing, HVAC
Does Going Solar Make Sense In San Diego? The San Diego region is blessed with an abundance of sunlight, making it an ideal location for solar power. Solar panels installed in San Diego can generate enough electricity to power a home or business, and the region's climate means that panels will typically experience little wear and tear. Reasons To Go Solar San Diego If you're considering solar power for your home or business, San Diego is a great place to do it. Solar power is generated by converting sunlight into electricity. Solar panels are made up of many solar cells, and when sunlight hits these cells, it knocks electrons loose. These loose electrons flow through the material to create an electric current. This current can then be harnessed and used to power homes and businesses. Solar power is a renewable, clean, and efficient source of energy, making it a smart choice for San Diego residents. With an average of 260 sunny days per year, San Diego has the potential to generate a significant amount of solar power. Solar panels require little maintenance and have a long lifespan, making them a cost-effective investment. Making the switch to solar power can help reduce your carbon footprint and support the move towards a more sustainable future. Solar Panel Installations San Diego Overall, solar power is a great choice for San Diego residents. With plenty of sun and little wear and tear on the panels, solar power can save you money in the long run. Plus, it's good for the environment!
Originally Published March 29th, 2019. Updated January 6th, 2021. In Southern California, Rancho San Diego is known for it's sunny, comfortable climate and overall year-round good weather. It’s one of those places that is just made for taking advantage of solar energy. While it's never “too late” to install solar panels in Rancho San Diego in our books, there are some things that are a little time sensitive to keep in mind. For instance, if you are looking to maximize your savings on a solar panel system, there are some incentives, credits and rebates that will be expiring soon or in the near future. That’s why we recommend jumping on the solar bandwagon sooner than later! Don’t Miss Out On Major Savings You can always save when switching to solar -- especially with the rising popularity and development of solar technology driving the cost for production down -- but why not save even more by taking advantage of incentives as well? Here are some of the timelines to be aware of:
Promising year-long perfect weather right along the beachside, the city of Oceanside immediately becomes the ideal place for life in general. What more could you ask? That warm, sunny, happy weather also offers a specific advantage for residential solar power and for many reasons, now is the best time to go solar in Oceanside. Solar Financing Options for Oceanside One of the most significant incentives for switching to clean energy continues to be the many solar rebates and incentives provided. These various financial aids have helped make solar affordable for everyone! However, some of these incentives won’t last much longer, so getting started with solar today could allow you to save more! At Semper Solaris, our local and tailored service makes us the best solar company in Oceanside for Oceanside. For information regarding the different financial aids, your Oceanside residence qualifies for is just one call away at our Oceanside Semper Solaris office. SOLAR LOANS Solar loans are an excellent option for residential solar, and many solar loans are $0-down. A PV (photovoltaic) solar system is an asset that gives you financial revenue. From the rebates and tax credits for installation to the value of the energy, you produce throughout your system’s lifetime. LEASES AND PPA’S Leasing or getting a power purchase agreement (PPA) is like renting a solar system for your home. The third-party owner of the solar system will install and maintain the solar system on your property, in exchange, you pay a below-market rate for the electricity during the duration of the lease agreement. Because they own the PV system, they will be eligible for the tax rebates and incentives. You can still expect to save 10-30% over the cost of your electric bill and get to enjoy the electricity it produces! So why wait? NOW is the time to go solar! Why Semper Solaris? As a homeowner in Oceanside, finances are always a big part of the equation. Which is why, at Semper Solaris, we work directly with your goals, your home, and your budget to provide the best solar installation in Oceanside for you. Our experienced solar technicians and contractors know how to install your system to ensure it works at its highest energy efficiency. If you have concerns about the feasibility for you to go solar, get in touch with your Semper Solaris solar company in Oceanside!
There is a saying that “a rising tide lifts all boats.” When it comes to solar power, it is truly a rising tide. Solar power will drive the energy of the future and California is ahead of the curve. Access to solar power can have a profound impact on low-income and families living in poverty. In this up and coming renewable energy economy, it is vital that everyone has access to the benefits of solar. Low-Income families spend a more significant percentage of their income on their utility bills compared to most households. California’s new mandate for installing solar power on new construction is paving the way for the future of sustainability. As we move towards phasing out reliance on fossil fuels, everyone should enjoy the economic benefits of solar power in El Cajon. Semper Solaris is a solar power company in El Cajon that cares about the future of this city. We are committed to solving some of the economic problems of the community through solar power. Low-Income Homeowners Homeowners can get rooftop solar installed at no upfront cost and enjoy the benefit of lower bills. With a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), you can have solar installed by a provider. You will pay for your energy usage through the provider at a lower rate than you pay to your utility company. There are low-cost solar loans that can help homeowners install rooftop solar and reap the benefits of lower electric bills and increased home value. Semper Solaris is the best solar contractor in El Cajon. We can help you find the right options for going solar. Landlords Can Help Low-Income Families If you own rental property in El Cajon, you can help struggling tenants with their high utility costs by installing solar on your rental home, condominium, or apartment building. If your tenants pay their own electric bill each month, the addition of solar power can help them reduce costs and as a tradeoff, incur a small rise in rent to help defray the cost of installation. If electric bills are included in rent, installing solar will reduce your monthly expenses. There are several ways to finance your solar power. You can purchase your system for your rental units, or you can go with a solar lease with no upfront costs, and your tenants can enjoy the lowered electricity costs right away. If you choose to purchase your system, there are state and federal tax incentives you can take advantage of as well as other returns on your investment. A solar system will also increase the value of your rental property. We are experts in solar installations in El Cajon. Solar Options for Renters If you rent your single-family home or live in a multi-family apartment building, there are other options for accessing solar power. Whether to protect the environment or save on your power bill, when it comes to going solar, “there is more than one way to skin a cat.” Solar Power for the Homeless In El Cajon and California at large, we have a serious homeless problem. Cities and communities across the country are finding solutions for the homeless population. Solar power is being deployed to help lift people out of homelessness. Organizations offer mobile showers and toilets for the homeless. By providing access to power through, Smart chargers and solar benches the homeless can connect with necessary services and look for jobs. Solar is a powerful resource for helping people in poverty at home and in the world. Semper Solaris is leading the way in installing solar power in El Cajon and other communities. We are passionate about promoting the environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy. Semper Solaris is the best solar power company in El Cajon for solving the problem of access to solar for everyone. Whether for your rental property or your home, solar power is a cost-effective way to help families improve their station in life, putting more money in their pockets for the things they need. Call us, and we can help you find the solutions you need for going solar and moving the line forward for the future of solar for everyone.
Solar panel installation is a great way to take advantage of the sun’s free renewable energy. For many homeowners considering solar, their regional climate is the many concern. Are they in an area well-suited for solar panels? Will they get enough sun to meet their household electricity needs? First, understanding how panels work is key to figuring out if they will work best in your area. So how exactly do solar panels bring electricity to a household? We like to keep it quick and simply so you can understand the basic idea without getting into the nitty gritty science details. When the particles of sunlight reach the solar panels, the conversion process begins. The photons of the particles are turned into electrons, which are used as direct current electricity. From there, the system’s inverter will begin it's work, converting it to usable electricity for a home. Why Cloudy Days Aren’t the End of the World for Solar Most people assume that solar panels are only able to work when the sun is out and shining. While this is definitely the best weather for solar panels to produce useful energy for a home, it's not the only time those solar panels can harvest sunlight. Of course, it would be reasonable to think that solar panels can only create converted electricity when we can see the rays of sun hitting them, but this is simply a misconception. The important thing to remember is that direct sunlight isn’t necessary for this process. All the solar panels on a roof need are the photons that are emitted from the particles of sunlight, which means even a cloudy day can result in solar energy. While not as powerful as direct sunlight, this allows a home’s solar panels to be productive even in not seemingly “ideal” weather conditions.” Overall, solar panels are extremely durable and designed to withstand even harsh winter climates and storms for decades. Still, getting 100% production compared to the 10 to 25% production rate on cloudy, stormy days is preferable, which is why consistently sunny areas can be much better suited for solar panel systems. How Clairemont Is Part of the Renewable Energy Movement When you live in Southern California, you know you’ll be enjoying particularly sunny and comfortable weather year-round. Even with the winter months are pretty moderate considering the snow and ice storms in other areas of the country can experience. That’s one of the main reasons that San Diego - including Clairemont - is one of the leading cities in renewable energy. Modern PV panels undergo serious testing to ensure they meet quality standards and can endure extreme climate and weather. While solar panels can still produce electricity in colder winter climates, the more moderate winter in Clairemont means there will be no snow or ice to clear off of panels to ensure they are operating at maximum capacity. San Diego is one of the top cities (in 2nd place behind Los Angeles) in the nation for solar, boasting a total capacity of 287.2 megawatts and at least 50 watts of PV capacity installed per person. As a nearby neighbor, Clairemont is part of the trend as well, with more and more homeowners opting to have solar panels installed to increase their savings and boost their home value. Want to join the renewable energy movement? Let our team help you install solar panels in Clairemont! Get in touch with our solar contractors to learn more.
With California’s solar boom, green homes win when it comes to real estate. Solar panel installation saves you bundles on your energy bill and increases the resale value of your San Marcos home. Buyers consider solar to be an asset and are willing to pay a premium. And homes sell faster if they have the added value of energy efficiency. More and more realtors are getting on board and featuring energy efficiency aspects of a home as a desirable commodity in home buying. With the California mandate that all new homes and buildings be outfitted with rooftop solar, it isn’t hard to imagine that solar is the wave of the future and will be in demand in older homes as the grid phases out carbon-based fuels. Although there is a cost to installing solar, the cost of the installation according to the Department of Energy estimates will be offset by the substantial savings in energy bills over the life of a 30-year mortgage. And if you take into consideration the other cost reductions, solar installation is an attractive financial investment for your home and will provide a return on your investment. Rebates and Incentives Hedge Against Rising Energy Costs Further Savings When The Loan Is Paid Off Increase In The Value Of Your Home If you are leasing a solar system, you still save money on energy costs, but you don’t benefit from incentives and rebates. And leased systems are not considered in the value of your home. It is best to buy, and you can access low-cost solar loans to pay for your system. There are ways to expand the value of your solar system. As technology is advancing, electricity will be more in demand with smart homes being the wave of the future. Adding to your system is a proactive, forward-thinking way to increase the value of your home and its attractiveness to buyers with innovations and uses for solar power. After all, people tend to like getting a little more for their money. Backup Battery The addition of a backup battery to your solar system will enable you to store extra power for use when you need it and add more value to your system. Use stored power at night or times when your panels are not producing enough Be prepared for emergencies when the grid goes down Become more energy independent Surplus Panels Overbuilding your solar capacity as new technologies arise that increase the need for electricity is a proactive move that will add value to your home now and in the near future. Enhance the potential of your solar system for things like an electric powered car. Adding extra panels will leave room to: Expand and accommodate ECC charging stations Heat your water or pool Add RV solar chargers Add Solar Awnings to high sunlight windows Take hold of the future and prepare for innovative technologies that are on the horizon with solar panels in San Marcos. It is cheaper to install panels in the beginning than add them later. It is even better if you are able to entrust a local solar contractor who is familiar with the area. Semper Solaris is on the frontlines of renewable energy technology and innovation. We use only the very best equipment available, and our technicians have years of experience in the installation of all types of solar systems, and that list is growing. We can provide you with expertise in choosing your solar system, its design, and aesthetics with the many options for Solar installations in San Marcos.
Valley Center, this small rural community in north San Diego, has traditionally been a farming and agriculture community. But that is changing thanks to the nearby Casinos that have generated interest from businesses, investors, and homebuyers alike. Economic prosperity and investment in infrastructure are moving this town forward with real estate development featuring retail outlets, restaurants, recreation center, parks, and more. The wide-open spaces of Valley Center have plenty of room and land for expansion. Valley Center is a community on the rise, bustling with opportunity. As the new city grows, the infrastructure is developing and opening up avenues for businesses and residences with amenities that will be built from the ground up. Investing in solar is one of the smartest moves a community can make. And with California's mandate to meet sustainability goals and phase out fossil fuels along with the requirement to install Solar Panels on new buildings, Solar Power is in. Valley Center has the unique opportunity to be a historic traditional town based on the technology of the future. Solar power, with its flexibility, supports developing smart infrastructure, promotes innovation and investment. This opportunity along with farming and agriculture brings with it the prospect for a truly sustainable town. Going Solar ensures a more healthful environment with clean air and water and a better quality of life for its residents. The benefits to the city through residential, government, and business solar power installations reach far into the future as California leads the way in achieving the sustainable goals for decreasing fossil fuels and carbon emissions. And with a city built on renewable energy, it is possible to detach from commercial utilities and manage energy through what is called Microgrid which leads to energy independence, higher efficiency, and even more savings. Semper Solaris supports conservation and the development of renewable energy. We are committed to sustainable metropolitan infrastructure, clean air, and a reduction in pollution. We are experts in the maintenance, repair, and installation of Solar Panel systems for municipalities and local businesses. Through the implementation, Valley Center can benefit in many ways. We can help you plan for the future. The Benefits of a City Going Solar Financial Reduction in monthly electrical bills and operating expenses Earn credits to apply towards future bills Reinvest the savings in the development of more infrastructure Economy Clean energy and green economy Provide Job growth with local solar contractors Help Low-Income Residents with low-cost power Environment Meet sustainability goals Reduce or eliminate air, water, and noise pollution Promote energy independence Infrastructure Smart Technology Resiliency in natural disasters Provide energy to remote areas Disconnect from local utilities with micro-grid Homeowners in Valley Center are joining their growing community as it moves towards becoming green and clean. In a city on the move with solar as its primary source of energy, aligning yourself with your cities sustainability goals will reduce your carbon footprint while reaping the financial rewards of going solar. The Benefits of Residential Solar Lower or eliminate your electric bills Increase the value of your home Get a return on your investment by hedging against rising energy prices. Offset installation costs with incentives and rebates Access energy upgrade financing Benefit from tax deductions for depreciation Increase the value of your home By going solar, you are investing in the future and opening the door to future technology that will increase efficiency, add useful innovations, and enhance the comfort of your home. Why not get on board and join your cities commitment to clean energy, conservation, and enjoyment of your town? Semper Solaris is on the frontlines of renewable energy technology and innovation. We use only the very best equipment available, and our technicians are experienced in the installation of all types of solar systems, and that list is growing. We can provide you with expertise in choosing your solar system, its design, and aesthetics with the many options for Solar installations. Click here to learn more about solar in Valley Center.
Living in Pacific beach, our ocean is a vital resource for not only the beautiful beaches, but the sea life, plants, and birds that all contribute to an ecosystem that encompasses life along the boardwalk. People stroll the city streets enjoying the enchanting ocean view and urban feel. This is the backdrop of one of the best places to live in California. With the ocean being so much a part of the ambiance and the attraction for visitors and residents alike, what does the future hold for the sea and the wildlife? How do greenhouse gases affect our oceans? What part does solar power play in protecting the ecosystem of the sea? Semper Solaris understands the effect of fossil fuels on the environment, and we are committed to protecting it. Acidification of the Ocean Fossil fuels used for generating electricity release carbon dioxide and make up the greater part of greenhouse gas emissions that pollute the air. The sea is vast, and we have been protected from the effects and have not noticed the changes in the ocean from carbon emissions altering the chemistry of our oceans by lowering the PH and making the sea more acidic. Over time, this acidic state has taken such a toll that it has affected many characteristics of the ocean environment as it has been slowly absorbing the emissions into every facet of life deep in the sea. Shellfish are losing the ability to generate shells including lobsters and mussels Organisms necessary to the balance of the systems are growing at a slower rate Oysters are in danger of extinction The coral reefs that play such a big part of protecting the islands and coast and are the raw material of tourist industries are being eroded at huge losses to coastal ecosystems Solar and the Sea As we move towards implementing more renewable energy sources, solar is advancing innovative technologies from powering ships and boats to solar powered means of cleaning the ocean, offshore solar energy, solar-powered boats. Solar Panels in Pacific Beach are a necessary addition to the means of protecting air and sea. Only one home installing a solar energy system can have a huge impact on the environment; it’s like planting 100 trees. Protecting the ocean through conservation and ensuring clean air is a concern for not only Pacific Beach, but for the California coast. Solar power is leading the charge towards the reduction of carbon emissions. By investing in solar, you are helping to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. Solar power creates no pollution or waste, has a positive impact on the environment, and is cost-effective. Pacific Beach and Solar Pacific Beach residents are informed about conservation and are committed to sustainability in their community and their ecosystem for residents, businesses, and guests of the city. We are making strides in promoting a safe and clean environment. This is foundational to this thriving community. As millions of people are moving to solar-powered homes, Pacific Beach homes and businesses are installing rooftop solar and joining the movement towards a green city, free of pollution. Development is moving on Pacific Beach, and with California's mandate for solar on all new buildings and homes, it is pointing to a sustainable city and an ocean that is being protected. With prices dropping and the benefits of solar installations in both the city and on residential rooftops, makes this an excellent time to join the efforts towards sustainability and reduction in carbon emissions. At Semper Solaris, our technicians believe in using the utmost care in preserving the environment and the atmosphere of Pacific Beach. We are on the frontlines of renewable energy and solar innovation. We use only the very best equipment available, and our technicians are experienced in the installation of all types of solar systems. We can provide you with our years of expertise in choosing your solar system, its design, and aesthetics with the many options for Solar installations. Call Semper Solaris solar contractors today and take the first step of going solar in Pacific Beach.
Living in Corona, you know that there is plenty of sunshine to capitalize on. You may be wondering if it's worth it to invest in solar panels for your home. With numerous expenses and budgets to think through, it can feel like a tough decision to make. Semper Solaris is here to lay out all your options and help you understand what's to gain out of going solar! While the promises of savings and added property value sound nice, is there really evidence to back it up? We are here to provide the insight you are looking for! Top Reasons to Consider Solar Panels Experience Real Solar Savings Having solar panels in Corona can result in significant savings. You are looking at much more affordable electric bills, added property value, and long term savings. With electricity prices going up, the projected savings could spike even more for the homeowner with a solid solar panel system set up already! Paired with the more affordable cost of solar panels and extensive local rebates, incentives, and tax credits available, solar offers real savings to homeowners in Corona. Enjoy More Energy Independence Electricity rates are projected to fluctuate more and more over the next few years. That’s why going solar has become such an attractive option to homeowners throughout California. Why stay dependent on the grid when you can ensure your rates stay relatively the same with solar panels? Specially with time-of-use rates and other things that could cause your electricity bills to fluctuate, with solar panels you are looking at more stability and control -- especially with growing solar storage options become more available to homeowners. Add Value to Your Property Studies have found that having a solar energy system added to a home can add significant value. For example, homebuyers are reportedly more willing to pay a price tag of around $15,000 higher for homes with an average solar panel system installed. Other evidence from the study even shows that solar panel homes are selling faster than homes without these renewable energy systems. Who wouldn’t love to have their home sell quicker and for more money than other comparable homes on the market? When it comes to determining if solar panels will add real value to your property, the proof is definitely there! Numerous Financing Options to Fit Your Budget Solar panels have never been more accessible to consumers, with numerous financing and leasing options available. While leasing may seem like a viable option for those who want to be more budget-friendly, the savings may not be as great as they would be if a system was financing for purchase. Either way, you can still save with solar, it just comes down to how much you want to save. If you choose to go with a solar lease or power purchase agreement, you won’t have to put any money down, however, you are more so just enjoying a more affordable electricity bill, so the savings are smaller. Once you’ve thought through your budget and what you want to spend on solar upfront, you can discuss the best solar financing options with our team at Semper Solaris. We help you understand how to maximize your savings from solar without busting your budget! Sunny Corona Offers Optimal Sunshine to Harvest Living in Corona, you know that the weather doesn’t get much better than this. There is plenty of sunshine, with average high temperatures hitting just below that perfect 80°F mark. Southern California is notorious for its beautiful sunny weather, with most areas averaging well over 200 sunny days year-round. That means your solar panels will get plenty of use during the average clear day in Corona, making your solar installation well worth it. Extensive Lifespan & Warranties to Guarantee Performance At the end of the day, anything home improvement should be something you can expect to last a long time. You wouldn’t spend all that time and money remodeling your kitchen if you thought you’d have to do it all again in just five years. Purchasing new windows or insulation is done with the assumption that you won’t be faced with the same upgrades again just a few years down the road. That is something that solar panels offer as well -- peace of mind about the long-term benefits of your investment. So how long can you expect your solar panels to last? The average warranty on solar panels can range from 20 to 25 years (some reaching up to 30 years), meaning you can trust that your panels are guaranteed to perform for a long time. These panels are designed to endure the elements for decades -- often performing efficiently with minimal degradation after 30 to 40 years. Solar Isn’t a Trend -- It's Here to Stay Just a few years ago it seemed crazy to think that solar power would gain any ground on fossil fuel sources. Now, solar panels are becoming more and more affordable and accessible to homeowners. It is pretty evident that solar isn’t just a quick trend or fad that will go away -- it's a renewable energy solution that is here to stay. If you want to enjoy all the benefits and flexibility of having a solar panel system installed on your roof, don’t wait another day. The windows are closing on some tax credits and other incentives that make going solar all the more affordable for Corona residents. If you are ready to talk to a solar contractor in Corona, Semper Solaris is here to help. Contact us today to find out if going solar is right for you!
With 266 days of sun per year, San Diego is a prime candidate to become the leader in solar power. After all, the average number of sunny days is just 205 across the country. We nearly have the type of sun that towns on the east coast could only dream of. You can add to the city’s growth as a green community by putting solar panels on your own home. From Mission Beach to Alpine and Chula Vista to Carlsbad, San Diego County homes are in a great position to make their own energy using the power of the sun. Even better, solar energy is contagious. If you put solar panels on your own home, your neighbors are more likely to consider becoming energy independent, too. Before you know it, San Diego will be totally powered by the sun. Getting It Right with Solar Panels in San Diego If you’re new to the idea of solar power it’s easy to get overwhelmed. How many panels do you need? When is the best time to get them installed? Will you recover the costs of the solar panels when you sell your home? Before you make any decisions, let’s take a look at some of the basic do’s and don’ts of going solar in Sunny San Diego: Do: Consider Getting Panels Installed in the Off-Season Solar professionals have a busy season and an off-season, just like any business. It’s no surprise that the summer months get people thinking about going solar. Air Conditioning means escalating utility bills and the ever-present sunshine is top of mind. If you want to go solar in San Diego, consider getting your panels installed during the off-peak season. Not only can you get better discounts if you get solar installed during the off-season, but you’ll get more attention from your solar installers. A slower schedule for solar companies means they can spend more time walking you through the process and devoting extra energy (no pun intended) to your job. Don’t: Rush to Get Your Panels Installed Before the First Heat Wave You see the summer season approaching and you know the peak season will arrive with it. Better get those panels installed right away… right? Not so fast. Rushing to get your panels installed could present its own problems. For one, you should get your roof assessed before you install solar panels. Like all types of roofing materials, the Spanish tiles popular in Southern California have a limited lifespan. It would be a shame to install solar on a failing roof that needs to be replaced soon. Give yourself a few months for inspection and repairs instead of rushing to get panels installed before the first big heatwave, even if your favorite installer can fit you in. Overall, winter is the best time to make an appointment for solar installation. Do: Examine Which Direction Your Roof Faces to Maximize Panel Access to the Sun The ideal way to place solar panels is facing south. You can also point your solar panels to the east or west, though they will produce about 20 percent less energy. If you only have the option to place your panels on a roof that faces north, you may want to consider installing panels on the ground or using a creative tilting system. The way your solar panels face may have a big effect on the type of panels you choose and the number of panels you need. Planning ahead is key. For instance, you may learn that while your roof faces south, there may be a shadow cast on it for a good amount of the day. Most situations can be altered to make solar work but being aware of your roof’s relationship with the sun is the first step to developing a plan. Don’t: Assume Sea Fog or Tall Palms Mean You Won’t Get Enough Sun It’s true that solar panels work at maximum efficiency when they get regular direct sunlight. If you live in Ocean Beach, you might worry that the frequent ocean fog means your panels will be starved of sufficient UV rays. The good news is that even under fog, solar panels can absorb about half of what they need to operate at full potential. When the fog burns off at about noon, your panels are fully back in business. Likewise, tall trees that provide tons of shade to your roof can be a problem, but they don’t rule out solar panels. Trimming fronds and tilting the panels can mean your trees and solar panels live in harmony. Do: Look for Rebates to Enjoy More Cost Savings Your solar installer may offer great discounts during the off-peak season, but that’s not the only way to save cash on your panels. While the San Diego Gas and Electric (SDGE) solar rebates are currently exhausted for San Diego residents, the solar thermal rebate program is still active and has a total of $28 million to hand out. Keep your eyes peeled for other city or state rebate programs that will cut back on your initial costs. SDGE has a helpful guide that explains the various ways you can leverage various types of savings for solar installation. With the California push toward solar (most new builds will be required to have panels as of 2020), it’s always possible that new rebates could become available for current homeowners in San Diego. Don’t: Give Up on Solar If You Don’t Qualify for State Discounts If you don’t have access to city or state rebates, all hope for major savings is not lost. You can still apply the federal tax credit for solar investment (ITC) to your taxes next year. The tax rebate allows you to deduct up to 30% of the cost of your PV panel installation. You should also consider the annual savings from switching away from the grid and the increased value of your home. Even if you don’t save money in a lump sum rebate upfront, you still stand to make a lot of money in the future. SDGE will also compensate you for the excess energy generation that you give back to the grid if you apply and are approved for the NEM program. Do: Work with a Local Solar Company That Understands San Diego Climate A company that knows San Diego weather and climate patterns will be able to explain exactly what financial returns you can expect from going solar, and how many panels you need to fully power your home. Only a company that knows the entire county will know the needs of homes in Mission Valley versus a property near the coastal fog at the beach. In addition to considering price, it’s wise to place value on how well the solar company understands the needs of a San Diego homeowner. Is it be worth it to pay less if you work with a company that only has a history of working in the desert? Don’t: Be Shy About Vetting Your Solar Company Thoroughly You have the right to ask as many questions as you want of any solar company. After all, going solar is not only a big financial investment: it’s also a change in lifestyle. You want to work with an organization that knows the solar industry and is comfortable being asked about their practices, costs, and knowledge of San Diego installations. So, are you ready to get serious about going solar in San Diego? You won’t be left wanting for sunny days to shower your new panels with energy. Between the increased value in your home and the ability to become energy independent, getting solar panels in San Diego has too many benefits to pass up. Contact Semper Solaris today to find out more about going green in San Diego.
