California recently passed legislation that will require its utilities to achieve 100% renewable energy capacity by 2045. This mandate will directly impact the solar industry in California, which has grown by 29% in the past year alone. If you’re looking for a green and renewable energy source to power your home, businesses, and vehicles, you may be wondering where to turn. If this describes you, then continue reading.
All About Utility Billing
Before you commit to a solar company, it’s important to understand how utility billing works. Your solar installation will almost certainly affect your monthly utility bills. When you initially install solar panels, you will likely see a spike in your electricity bills. However, as the panels generate more electricity than you need, you will start to see savings. The electricity you do use will be cheaper than what you would have paid without the solar panels. This is because utilities get paid per kWh and solar panels produce more Watts than you actually need. Thus, when the sun shines, you will benefit – financially speaking!
The Difference Between Net Metering And Gross Metering
When you use solar energy, you don’t always get to keep the energy you produce. In some places, such as California, you will get paid for the energy you produce and can then store it in a battery or grid-tie system. This is called Net Metering. With Net Metering, you don’t have to worry about your energy usage as there is no way to over-estimate how much power you will produce. Hence, you won’t be penalized for the electricity you need. On the other hand, if you use more electricity than you produce, you will be charged for any additional energy. This is called Gross Metering. With Gross Metering, you could find yourself in financial trouble if you don’t monitor your electricity use carefully.
Which One Is Better For You?
Now that you’re aware of the differences between Net Metering and Gross Metering, you may be wondering which is better for your situation. If you’re wanting to use solar to reduce your energy bills, Net Metering is the way to go. When you use solar energy, you don’t always get to keep the energy you produce and will be subject to your regional electricity provider’s rules. However, if security of supply is a concern, then Gross Metering may be a better option for you. Remember, the more solar energy you have, the more power you will produce, even when the sun isn’t shining. This means you can store more energy than you have now and use it when you need it. With more and more people moving to cities to save on their energy bills, generating your own power is becoming more appealing than ever before.
Additional Considerations
If you are wanting to generate your own power and are located in California, then it’s imperative that you take some time to consider the following:
- The Voltage Of The Region You Are Located In
- How Much Power Do You Need To Run Your Home Or Business
- Whether You Want To Trough-Tackle The Work Yourself Or Hire Someone To Do The Job
- The Cost Of Generating Energy
- How Long Does It Take To Generate Energy (For Wind And Solar)
- How Is The Energy You Generate Stored (For Wind And Solar)
- Does The Energy Policy In Your State Support Wind, Solar, Or Both?
- Additional Notes
- Links To More Information
Where To Start
If you’re wanting to generate your own power and are located in California, then you may be wondering where to start your search. There are several places you can look online to get started. One of the best sources for information is the California Solar Industry Association. You can also contact your regional energy provider to see if they offer any specific assistance with your project. Additionally, you can search online for local contractors who can help with the installation of your solar power system. Doing business in California is also a great way to gain experience if you’re a new business owner or entrepreneur. By establishing a presence in one of the most attractive states in the country, you are giving yourself a greater chance of gaining customers and making sales. California is also a great place for those who are doing their startup phase and looking to establish a base from which to expand their business internationally. If you’re interested in any of these things, then consider California as your potential home base.