California is consistently a trailblazer state within the U.S. regarding climate-preserving technologies and practices. The state has historically been a positive promoter of efforts to curb emissions and reduce waste. California residents have been able to reap the benefits of switching to electric vehicles, and now, investing in solar power for their homes.
Switching to Solar Power: The Way to Go in California
Receiving many days of sunshine each year, this coastal state is one of the best states to install solar panels in residential areas because homeowners can invest with confidence, knowing that solar power should be sufficient for their energy needs. Aside from the money-saving perks offered by solar panels, the state of California offers residents many benefits to switching to this cleaner form of energy. Below we’ll dive into a few of the best benefits offered.
Self-Generation Incentive Program
Providing businesses and homes across the state with an up-front rebate for installing an energy storage system, the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) empowers residents to make the switch without worrying about the full costs right off the bat. This program works in a tiered system, changing the size of the rebate based on how many people in your area have made the switch, so getting ahead of the curve has major benefits.
Solar Energy System Property Tax Exclusion
In California, selling or buying a home, or conducting major home renovations can trigger the state to reassess the value of your home and adjust your property taxes accordingly. For homes that install solar energy systems, this exclusion means that property taxes will not increase until 2024, no matter what modifications are made to the home. This is a great incentive to make the switch, especially if you plan on doing some other home updates at the same time.
Net Metering and Switching to Solar Power
Under the state’s Net Energy Metering program, residents can actually get money back if their solar panels produce more energy than they use. The excess energy can be given to the energy grid in their area and the energy providers will pay for it, offering a credit on their account. The amount of money you’ll save and the size of credit you’re eligible for will depend on when your solar energy system was installed, but this is a great way for residents to recognize the benefits of using renewable energy in their homes.
Affordable Housing Solar Program
Solar energy shouldn’t only be available to high-income homes, and California works to ensure access to everyone who wants to pursue renewable energy for their homes. With the Single-Family and Multi-Family Affordable Solar Housing (SASH and MASH) programs, low-income homes that qualify can receive reduced rates to offset the initial investment.
Solar is the Future
Not only is solar energy better for the planet than traditional energy sources, but it can actually save you money in the long run. If reduced energy costs aren’t enough to convince you, California offers a plethora of programs and incentives to convince you to make the switch. Our advice is to take advantage of them as soon as possible to get the most out of switching to solar that you can. Contact Del Sol Energy today for a consultation.
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