What are the benefits of going solar?

Solar energy provides many environmental benefits besides saving money and energy independence. It emits no pollution, produces no greenhouse gases, and uses no finite fossil fuel resources.

Is going solar worth the cost?

Solar panel prices are at a record low, while electricity prices continue to rise in California. A payback period for residential solar investment is often five years or less. Every day without solar is another day of high electric charges.

What is a group buying program?

A group buying program pools the purchasing power of multiple homeowners to negotiate and secure bulk pricing for the purchase of residential solar energy systems. Every homeowner who participates receives the discount just mention OC Goes Solar when speaking with the program solar contractors.

Who is eligible for our group discounts?

All homeowners living in and around Orange County, California.

What makes our group buying program so successful?

Our program makes the process of going solar simple and transparent. It vets contractors, secures a group discount price and warranty, and provides homeowners with community support and education.

Are tax rebates or incentives available for solar energy?

The 30% Tax Credit (also known as 25D in the Inflation Reduction Act) applies to all homes in America. 25D provides households an uncapped 30 percent tax credit for rooftop solar. 25D also includes a 30 percent uncapped tax credit for an electrical panel upgrade, but only if it’s upgraded in conjunction with rooftop solar. Many of the IRA tax credits are live and available now to American homeowners and renters over the next 10 years. These credits reset every year. Click here for more IRA tax credits or go to https://www.rewiringamerica.org/app/ira-calculator.

How do solar energy systems work?

Photovoltaic (PV) solar panels convert sunlight into direct current (DC) electricity; inverters then convert DC electricity into alternating current (AC) for electricity in the home. The utility meter records the net amount of energy generated through the PV system. When creating more electricity than you’re using, your meter spins backward, and the excess electricity is sent to the electric grid. This helps offset the cost of your electricity usage at night when your system is not producing electricity.

What is net metering?

When your solar system produces, more electricity than your home can use, the “excess” electricity automatically passes through the meter and onto the utility grid. When this occurs, the meter runs backward. Net energy metering generates a bill credit for the electricity your system produces and sends to the grid. If your home's electricity demand exceeds the production capacity of your solar system, your home draws extra power from the grid.

How many years do solar panels generate power?

Solar panels generate power for a very long time with little maintenance. While the inverter and some wiring may need upgrading in future years, the panels should remain useful for over 40 years.

What happens to solar panels when it’s cloudy or raining?

Solar panels are most effective in direct sunlight but still work in indirect sunlight. Rain can help your panels work efficiently by washing away dust or dirt.

Can I charge an electric car with energy generated by my solar panels?

Yes, your investment in solar pays off faster when it eliminates or reduces gasoline costs. Utility credits for energy generated by your solar panels during the day can offset your EV charging cost at night. 

What is a power-purchase agreement (PPA)?

A PPA allows a homeowner to pay a predetermined price per kilowatt hour (KHW) for electricity generated by solar panels through a leasing company. Although leasing companies may not require a down payment, actual savings for the customer may be low. PPAs often have escalator rates associated with their fees.

What does the average residential solar system cost?

Prices vary based on a few key factors: electricity needs, the efficiency of the selected solar panels, capacity, and the location of your house.

Is solar battery storage worth the cost?

Unless cost is not a consideration, a battery is best viewed as a limited backup power source. Battery technology is still evolving. Batteries are relatively expensive and are only warranted for ten years. Better to go solar now and add a battery later when they become more efficient and affordable.

What happens to my solar system during a power outage?

During an outage, your solar electric system is designed to shut down immediately for safety reasons unless it includes a battery storage system.

What is an energy storage system?

Storage refers to a technology, such as Lithium-ion batteries, that can capture electricity, store it, and then release it for use later when needed. 

Could I use my battery storage as an emergency backup power?

Yes. Rooftop solar paired with battery storage can provide backup power during power outages. Batteries can keep critical loads, such as refrigerators and lights, operating for an extended period.