Let’s cut through the noise.
Solar’s got a mixed rep right now—and it's not without reason. Some homeowners love it. Others regret it. Why?
Because not all solar setups are created equal.
In the last five years, the market’s been flooded with fly-by-night installers who didn’t have the infrastructure, experience, or patience to navigate the actual hard part: getting it done right.
Permits. Utility paperwork. Fire codes. NEM timelines. Roof structures. Electrical panels that need upgrades. That’s the real work.
Most companies weren’t built for that. And it showed.
So… Is Solar Still Worth It?
If you’re in California, here’s the bottom line:
PG&E raised its rates by 13% in January 2024, and that wasn’t even the first. They typically raise rates 4–6 times per year. That’s not hyperbole—that’s a matter of public record. (Source)
In fact, since 2008, PG&E’s rates have increased at an average of 12.5% per year. Every year, without fail.
If you think your bill is high now, wait 3 years. Or don’t. Because it won’t wait for you.
“But I Heard Solar Doesn’t Work Anymore…”
This confusion mostly comes down to NEM 3.0. Let’s break it down without the jargon.
Under the old program, NEM 2.0, PG&E had to give you full credit for every kWh of power you sent back to the grid. That meant your panels didn’t just power your home—they paid you back.
Under NEM 3.0, that credit has dropped to around 8 cents per kWh.
So yes, solar without a battery doesn’t usually make much sense anymore. But when paired with a battery?
Now you're playing a completely different game.
That battery lets you store your excess energy instead of selling it to PG&E for pennies. And when the sun goes down? You’re pulling from your own system instead of buying overpriced electricity at peak hours.
No more sending them power for 8 cents and buying it back for 45.
PPA vs Loan vs Cash (vs Lease… but let’s be honest, that one’s mostly dead)
Let’s talk real options.
1. Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
You don’t own the system. You don’t pay for the install. You just pay for the power it produces—usually at a lower rate than PG&E.
Pros: $0 upfront, often includes maintenance, predictable rates.
Cons: You don’t get the tax credit. You don’t own the system. If you sell your home, it can complicate the deal.
2. Solar Loan
You finance the system, just like a car or home. Once it’s paid off, you own it outright.
Pros: You get the 30% federal tax credit, you own the system, you build equity.
Cons: Monthly payments (though often less than your current PG&E bill), credit check required.
3. Cash Purchase
You buy the system in full, upfront.
Pros: No payments, full ownership, max ROI, tax credit still applies.
Cons: Large upfront cost.
4. Leases
Outdated. Rarely makes sense anymore. Less flexibility, and no tax credit.
Enough said.
So What Should You Do?
If you’re on NEM 3.0, and your quote doesn’t include a battery, you'll likely want to walk away.
You’ll rarely win trading your energy for 8 cents/kWh.
The smart move in 2025? Install solar with a battery, use it to store your excess, and reduce or eliminate your true-up bill.
This isn’t just about being green. It’s about being smart.
Here’s What You Get When You Do It Right
-Freedom from PG&E’s price hikes
-Nighttime energy covered by your own battery
-A real return on investment (especially with the tax credit)
-Peace of mind when outages hit
-A custom system built to last, not just slapped on your roof
Most homeowners wait too long to take action—not because they’re lazy, but because they’re overwhelmed.
We get it. That’s why we don’t “sell” solar. We guide you through it.
We’re not here to talk you into anything. We’re here to help you make the smartest call for your home—whether that’s a solar loan, a PPA, or just waiting until the time is right.
But if PG&E has already raised your bill and you’re wondering how much longer you’ll let them…
You’re not the only one.
Let’s talk real options. No pressure. No BS.