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andrew@reliance-electrical.com

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 Go Solar

Why Now Is
the Smartest Time
to Go Solar

With electricity rates rising and powerful incentives available, California homeowners, businesses, and agricultural operators are turning to solar energy not just for sustainability — but for long-term savings and energy independence.

Utility Rate Trends in California (2023–2025)

PG&E (Northern California)

PG&E customers saw major increases in 2024, including a 16.5% jump in average residential bills (source). Modest increases continued into 2025, resulting in a ~20% total rise since late 2023. CPUC Source

Southern California Edison (SCE)

SCE’s residential bills remained relatively stable, with small increases of 1–2% per year between 2023–2025. Average kWh rates hovered around 31–32¢/kWh. (source)

San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E)

SDG&E maintained some of the highest rates in the nation — averaging 38–40¢/kWh — with minor annual changes. However, some customers saw a net bill decrease thanks to climate credits. (source)

California’s average electricity rate grew from 14¢ in 2006 to over 34¢/kWh by 2024 — a 142% increase. (Enphase)

Solar Incentives That Boost Your ROI

30% Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

Available through 2032, the ITC covers 30% of eligible residential and commercial solar system costs. (IRS)

+10% Energy Community Bonus

Properties in designated zones (like Kern County) qualify for another 10%. (Energy Communities)

SGIP Rebates for Battery Storage

Earn up to $1,000/kWh for energy storage systems like Tesla Powerwall when installed with solar. (SGIP Info)

Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)

Commercial and ag projects can earn RECs for every MWh of solar energy produced, often worth $15 or more per REC. (Energy Toolbase)

+10% Domestic Content Bonus

Add an extra 10% tax credit when your system uses U.S.-manufactured components. (EPA)

California Property Tax Exclusion

Installing solar panels won’t increase your property taxes — the added value is excluded. (CA Renewable Rebates)

SASH Rebates (Low-Income Homeowners)

Eligible homeowners can receive up to $18,000 in upfront rebates. (CA Renewable Rebates)

Solar vs. Utility Power: Savings Over Time

Over 25 years, typical solar customers save $100,000+ in electricity costs — and even more when paired with battery storage or electric vehicle charging.

No Roof? No Problem. Try Community Solar

If rooftop solar isn’t possible, California’s Community Solar programs let you subscribe to shared solar farms and earn monthly bill credits — no panels required.

Local Utility & County Incentives

We help clients access local rebates, expedited permitting programs, and special rates through city utilities and Community Choice Aggregators (CCAs). For example:

SMUD

Battery incentives for greater energy independence.

Rancho Mirage

$500 rebates available for eligible solar projects.

San Diego

Participate in Water District solar pilot programs.

Summary: Why Go Solar in California Now

With utility rates rising and federal + local incentives stronger than ever, solar delivers:

 

3–5 year payback period

Up to 50% off installation costs

Energy independence

Tens of thousands in lifetime savings

Want to See What Solar Could Save You?

Let’s run the numbers. Whether you’re a homeowner, business, or farm, Reliance Electrical Solutions makes going solar simple and profitable.

Serving clients throughout California