California Energy Savings Blog

SCE rates are projected to rise 12.9% in 2026. Here's what that means for your monthly bill and how the Rate Relief Program can lock in a lower, fixed rate.

PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E are all adding a new monthly fixed charge to your bill. Here's what it is, when it starts, and whether solar still saves you money.

The federal residential solar tax credit ended December 31, 2025. But California homeowners still have strong paths to $0-down solar through PPAs and prepaid leases.

NEM 3.0 cut export credits by 75%. Here's why solar is still worth it in 2026 — and why battery storage changes everything.

A side-by-side comparison of California's three major utility rates, the new fixed charges, and how much each utility's customers can save with solar.

Prepaid PPAs are surging after the residential tax credit expired. Learn how they work, what they cost vs. buying or leasing, and whether this option fits your situation.

Modern solar panels are rated for 25-30 years but real-world data shows 30-40+ years of production. Here's what the latest NREL degradation data, warranty terms, and California climate research actually say.

Should you get your solar panels inspected? What does it cost? Here's what's included, when you need one, and California-specific requirements for fire zones and Title 24.

Need your solar panels removed for a roof replacement? Here's what R&R costs in California, how long it takes, and what PPA/lease owners need to know.

From cleaning to inverter replacement, here's the real cost of maintaining solar panels in California — and why PPA owners don't have to worry about most of it.

Pigeons nesting under your solar panels? Here's what bird proofing costs, the best methods, and why it matters for fire safety in California.

The commercial solar ITC is still at 30-40% in 2026, plus MACRS depreciation, C-PACE, and PPAs. Here's how California businesses can finance solar with maximum tax benefit.

Use the simple formula to calculate your ideal system size based on your electricity usage, roof space, and California sun hours. Plus how NEM 3.0 changes the math.

From CARE/FERA discounts to TOU plan optimization to solar, here are the most effective ways California homeowners can cut their electricity costs in 2026.

With no residential tax credit and NEM 3.0 in effect, is solar still worth it? We break down the real math for PPA, cash, and loan options with 25-year projections.

Both offer $0-down solar, but PPAs and leases work differently. Here's a side-by-side comparison to help you choose the right option.

"Free solar" is real — but it's not what most people think. Here's how $0-down programs actually work, common scams to avoid, and how to protect yourself.

Solar panels aren't a scam — but some companies are. Here's how to spot bad actors, verify any installer, and protect yourself with California's consumer protection laws.

PG&E rates are 70% higher than 2020. Here's what's driving your bill — the $24 fixed charge, hidden surcharges, TOU peak rates — and what you can actually do about it.

SDG&E has the highest rates in the continental U.S. Here's the full TOU-DR1, DR2, and EV-TOU-5 rate schedule, seasonal changes, and how solar customers can optimize.

A Power Purchase Agreement puts solar on your roof at no upfront cost. Here's exactly how it works, what you'll pay, and why PPAs dominate California solar in 2026.