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We can still have most San Diego County solar installations completed in time to beat

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Common residential solar modules are about 3-1/2’ x 5-1/2’ in size.  While size is similar for most solar modules, power output can vary widely.  If space is limited, a solar power system may need to be designed with the most powerful (expensive) solar modules available.  If there is plenty of space, you may be able to meet your needs with less expensive modules.

Common space limitations include:

• Necessary pathways for emergency personnel, as required by your local planning department.
• Vents, skylights and other obstructions
• Shading
• Rafter location

A professional site assessment includes accurate shade analysis as well.  Most solar modules stop working with only a small amount of shade present.  It’s important for the solar power system designer to have accurate information for determining solar panel location, equipment selection and plans for stringing the modules together for optimum performance.

A professional site assessment also includes an inspection of your existing electric service panel.  The National Electric Code and local building departments provide regulations for connecting solar power systems. A qualified professional with local knowledge can determine your best options for connecting a solar power system that meets your needs.

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As the market for residential solar power systems grows, so do options for financing.

We work with a variety of loans from local Credit Unions, PACE program providers and other lenders to find the best solution for every homeowner.  In most cases, homeowners can save on their monthly energy expense from day one – with $0 out of pocket!

Should you purchase or lease?

We recommend purchasing over solar leasing programs.  With today’s $0 down payment solar loans, purchasing solar makes more sense than ever before.  When compared with a 20 to 25-year lease, it’s a no-brainer.  A 12-year solar purchase-to-own program will save thousands of dollars for the average homeowner.

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Storing energy generated from your solar power system can be beneficial. While battery storage has been used for decades in off-grid applications, for some homeowners it now makes sense to add energy storage to grid-tied solar power.

There are two primary reasons to add energy storage:

1. To provide backup power in the case of a power outage.
2. To store energy for consumption during peak demand hours when prices are higher.

If you happen to live an area with frequent power outages, having a reliable backup power system can be practical. Adding a battery system can provide power to critical loads during an outage. Most residents in San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) service areas rarely experience an outage, so the cost of adding energy storage may be prohibitive.

SDG&E customers receiving permission to operate their solar power systems prior to March 30, 2018 can take service under tiered rates. Those adding solar power after the deadline will be required to take service under a time of use rate. The financial benefits of adding energy storage will vary greatly depending on your individual circumstances.

We’re seeing the most rapid advancements related to solar power in the area of energy storage components, including inverters, batteries and energy management systems. We are currently installing the RESU10H battery from LG Chem with the StorEdge 7.6kW inverter from SolarEdge.

This energy storage system in rural Fallbrook gets its power from a 10kW ground mounted solar array. The battery discharges daily to maximize self-consumption, and provides power to critical loads in the event of a power outage.

The recent Lilac fire demonstrated how SDG&E can cut power to large populations in the event of a wildfire. While this home was not affected, several nearby residents were without power for several days. For this homeowner, solar power and energy storage provide real value.

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https://www.sdge.com/clean-energy/time-use-period-grandfathering-net-energy-metering-customers

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1. Check the status of the Company’s CSLB license and if the solar consultant has the appropriate HIS license.
2. Check with the BBB to see if any complaints have been filed.
3. Ask where the Company is based.  Are they in San Diego County?  Are they in California?
4. Ask if the Company has there own installation and service personnel.
5. Ask the solar consultant for references and call them.

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Best solar consultant — this is the person we all wish would show up at our door when we’re ready to go solar.  Most homeowners are going to install solar one time — it pays to get it right!  This is why you want to start the process with someone like Ken Roberts.

Trained, Certified and Licensed

Ken is one of very few solar consultants with a Technical Sales Certification from NABCEP and a CSLB Home Improvement Sales License.  Ken also earned an Electrical Engineering degree from San Diego State University.   Prior to joining San Diego County Solar, Ken enjoyed a successful career in the semiconductor industry.

Professional

Ken is also a considerate individual who cares about his clients and conducts business with the highest level of integrity.  All things considered, Ken is probably the best solar consultant working in San Diego County today.

If Ken Roberts sounds like the kind of solar consultant you’d like to meet with, please call us at (760) 230-2220 or complete the contact form to the right of this post.

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We’re creating more good jobs with affordable solar power through the Green Collar Solar Program.  Now, homes with smaller electric bills can realize significant savings with low-cost solar energy systems.

How does the Green Collar Solar program make solar affordable?

We’ve taken everything we’ve learned designing and installing solar panels to bring affordable solar power to market.  We can install these low-cost systems on select, solar friendly homes.

How affordable is it ?

Homeowners with no upfront money and electric bills from $75-$150 can reduce pollution while saving money with solar power.

This is not a lease.

With available $0 down payment solar financing you can own your Green Collar Solar power system.

No appointment with a salesperson is required to get a free estimate?

Just call (760) 230-2220 and we will provide you with a detailed free estimate based on your home and electric bill.

The Green Collar Solar program was created by San Diego County Solar and is not available through other solar installation companies at this time.

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