Ready to go green and save some green? Going solar is a great way to lower your energy bills. But there are a few things you need to know before you make the switch. Here are 5 things to know before going solar.
1. Know your annual kilowatt-hours
It's important to know and understand what your annual kilowatt-hours are. Your annual kWh from your utility company is the amount of electricity you use each year. Knowing this number is important before getting solar because it helps you determine the size of the solar system that you need.
To start, you'll need to get your utility bill and find the section that shows your annual kWh usage. This number is usually listed in kilowatt-hours (kWh), which is the standard unit of measure for electricity. Next, you'll need to do a few calculations to determine the size of the solar system that you need. For example, if you use 10,000 kWh of electricity a year, you'll need a system that can generate at least 10,000 kWh of electricity. You can also use an online calculator to determine the size of the solar system that you need. Simply enter your annual kWh usage and the calculator will give you an estimate of the size of the system that you need.
Once you have your annual kWh number, you can start shopping around for solar systems that meet your needs. Be sure to look for systems that will generate at least as much electricity as you use annually.
2. Understand the incentives
Let's talk incentives for going solar. There are a variety of incentives available to help cover the cost of going solar and you need to know what they are.
Federal rules changed after the Inflation Reduction Act. Current IRS guidance says the Residential Clean Energy Credit is not available for residential property installed after December 31, 2025. A new 2026 home installation should be evaluated without that expired credit. Business projects follow different rules, and tax eligibility should be confirmed with a qualified tax professional.
Read the current IRS Residential Clean Energy Credit guidance.
California programs are eligibility-based. The CPUC lists paired solar-and-storage SGIP equity incentives for qualifying low-income residential customers, subject to program rules and available funding. The California Board of Equalization also describes an active-solar new-construction property assessment exclusion available through December 31, 2026. Check the current program before including it in a proposal.
3. Know the condition of your roof
It's important to know the condition of your roof. Older roofs may not be able to support the weight of solar panels. Additionally, certain materials are better suited for solar than others. Asphalt shingles, metal, and tile roofs are the most ideal, but other materials may be able to support solar as well.
Take a close look at the condition of your roof. Check for areas of damage, like broken shingles, loose nails, and discoloration. If your roof is in good condition, solar installation should be relatively easy.
Finally, roof orientation, pitch and shade affect production. South-facing roofs are often strong candidates, but east- and west-facing arrays can also work. A site-specific production model should determine the layout.
4. What happens if you move
If you install solar and opt for a monthly plan, you don't have to worry about being tied down. If you move, you can simply sell the monthly solar plan to the new owner of the house. You don't have to keep paying for the solar — the new owner becomes responsible for the monthly payments.
It's a great way to give the new homeowner access to clean, renewable energy while also making sure you don't have to keep paying for something you no longer benefit from. Make sure to include the solar plan in your home sale agreement so that the new homeowner is aware of the benefits they will receive.
5. Choose a reputable solar company
When you're looking to install solar on your home, it's important to go with a reputable solar company. A reputable company will have experienced installers and the necessary equipment to get the job done right the first time. They will also be knowledgeable about the latest technologies and able to provide you with the best possible advice for your home's unique needs.
A reputable solar company will provide you with a warranty on their work and the equipment, so you won't have to worry about unexpected costs or repairs down the road. They will be able to explain the process to you in detail and make sure you understand what you're getting and the benefits that come with it.
Lastly, a reputable solar company will have the right connections and resources to ensure that you get the most out of your solar panels. They can help you with any paperwork, permitting, or other issues that may arise and make sure you get the best possible return on your investment.
In Conclusion
Going solar is a great way to save money. With the right information, you can make an informed decision and take advantage of all the benefits of solar energy. Contact Net Metering Systems and we can guide you through these steps so you can be better informed when making a decision to add solar and start saving money.