When you install a solar energy system on your property, you save money on your electricity bills and protect yourself against rising electricity rates in the future. How much you can save depends on the utility rates and solar policies in your area, but going solar is a smart investment regardless of where you live.

Solar power, like other renewable energy resources, has many environmental and health benefits. Going solar reduces greenhouse gas emissions, which contribute to climate change, and also results in fewer air pollutants like sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, which can cause health problems.

The easiest way to find out how much you pay for electricity (and how much electricity you use per month) is to take a look at your utility bill. Take your monthly charges and divide that by how many kWh you used for that month. This will tell you how much you're spending per kWh. Currently, the average kWh rate is $.45/kWh.

The amount of power your solar energy system can generate is dependent on sunlight. As a result, your solar panels will produce slightly less energy when the weather is cloudy, and no energy at night. However, because of high electricity costs and financial incentives, solar is a smart financial decision.

Studies have shown that homes with solar energy systems sell for more than homes without them. In most parts of the country, going solar will actually increase your property value more than a kitchen renovation.

Unless your solar energy system includes battery storage and you are fully off the grid, you will still receive a bill from your utility company. Hopefully, it's minimal covering the monthly connection fee. You can dramatically reduce your utility bill, with a solar panel and energy storage system that matches your energy use.

If you are in California and are a PG&E, SCE or SDGE, you are subject to NEM 3. NEM 3 incorporates Net Billing every month. If your solar system generates less energy than your home demands, you will have a utility bill. If your home generates more than your home demands, your net credits (which are pennies per kWh) will be paid out to you on your yearly true up. Solar paired with the right amount of batteries is highly recommended in California under the new NEM 3.

Solar panel systems are made of durable tempered glass and require little to no maintenance for the 25 to 35 years that they will generate power. Cleaning your solar panels is really the only main upkeep and keeping tree branches clear of your solar panels to prevent shading. If something does happen, the equipment manufacturers include warranties and depending on the installer, your system may come with a 25 year production guarantee.

Solar panel systems are made of durable tempered glass and require little to no maintenance for the 25 to 35 years that they will generate power. Cleaning your solar panels is really the only main upkeep and keeping tree branches clear of your solar panels to prevent shading. If something does happen, the equipment manufacturers include warranties and depending on the installer, your system may come with a 25 year production guarantee.

The size of your solar energy system will depend on how much electricity you use on a monthly basis over a 12 month period, as well as the weather conditions where you live. It is recommended that you offset your energy usage by at least 100%, if not 115-120% if your utility will allow you to so to compensate for Time Of Use (Peak vs Non Peak) Net Metering. The three major utility companies in California are now under the NEM 3 solar policy, which will require most homeowners to get solar and batteries together. We cannot oversize a solar system more than 150% offset.

When you work with me, I am an authorized independent dealer with Freedom Forever. They are recognized as the #1 nationwide residential installer in the nation and currently install in 36 states! Because of their ability to negotiate equipment costs due to volume, this allows for me to give you the most competitive price on your solar system whether you purchase or lease your solar equipment. The criteria that everyone should use when choosing a solar installer is to confirm that they are certified, licensed and insured, have relevant experience, and can provide references. Make sure you work with a reputable solar installer before you sign an agreement.

Unfortunately, solar installers do go out of business. The good news is that if you work with me, I align myself with financial strong, cash positive solar installers. But, in the event the installer who installs your solar system does go out of business, you still have your manufacturer warranties in place for 25 years from the time they're installed and commissioned. I also have OEM companies who can come in and do any necessary repairs for your solar equipment!