California is among the states most committed to clean energy. The ultimate plan is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. Solar energy is key to meeting this goal. And there are many national, state, and local incentives to help residents make the switch. But where do you start?
OC Solar can help.
Since 2016, we’ve offered Southern California with top-quality solar products at the most competitive prices in the market. We’re proud to install cutting-edge solutions from Panasonic and Tesla. And we’re experienced at working with customers to meet their budgets. Let’s look at incentives that could help you start your solar journey, so you’ll be able to say “Lights out” to your electric company.
| Incentive | Type | Frequency | The Basics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Solar Tax Credit | Federal | 1 time | Offers a federal tax credit for up to 30% of installation costs |
| CA Solar Rights and Easement Laws | State | Ongoing | Protects homeowners from HOAs preventing solar system installation |
| Active Solar Energy System Property Tax Exemption | State | 1 time | Eliminates property tax for solar system installations |
| Equity Resiliency Program | State | 1 time | Includes rebates for $1,000 per kWh for energy storage systems |
| Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) | State | 1 time | Offers up to $200 per kWh for solar battery installations |
| Disadvantaged Communities – Single Family Solar Homes (DAC-SASH) | State | 1 time | Offers financial assistance of up to $3 per watt for qualifying low-income residents |
| Local City and Utility Company Rebates | Local | Varies | Additional rebates and incentives are offered at the city and utility level |
| Net-Metering | Local | Ongoing | Allows you to earn energy credits in exchange for excess energy |
Source: Architectural Digest
What about net-metering?
Net-metering is the system that lets customers transfer excess power collected by solar panels back to “the grid”. This offsets the cost of solar by allowing you to sell unused power back to electric companies to lower your grid-based electric rates. In 2024, Net-Metering 3.0 goes into effect in California. This change cuts the previous energy credit by 75% for homeowners not grandfathered into Net-Metering 2.0. But there’s a solution for new solar installations…
Battery storage
If it’s no longer advantageous to sell your extra power, what do you do with it? Simply put, keep it. If you’re thinking about installing solar panels onto your home, you should definitely consider battery storage. OC Solar recommends the Tesla Powerwall. It’s a compact home battery that reduces your reliance on the grid by storing your solar energy for use when the sun isn’t shining. It also puts you closer to energy independence by lowering your bill from the electric company.
What’s next
OC Solar is ready to answer your questions and get you started with solar energy. Our team of solar specialists will work with you to create a customized solution that fits your home’s energy needs. With affordable financing options and the cost-benefit of reduced utility expenses, we can help you go solar today. Let’s chat!