For families across the county, these outages are more than inconvenient. They’re a wake-up call. With the strongest winds of the season and wildfire threats growing, many are asking: How can I protect my family from the next blackout?

Santa Ana Winds Today: What You Need to Know

Santa Ana winds are a powerful force in Southern California, especially during fall and winter. Originating from high-pressure systems over the Great Basin, these hot, dry winds can reach speeds over 40 miles per hour, posing significant risks in recent years, their impact has intensified due to climate change and urban development. The dry conditions and strong gusts heighten wildfire risks, threatening communities and causing power outages by toppling power lines and trees. Utility companies now proactively address these challenges by implementing preventative power shutoffs in high-risk areas to mitigate wildfire risks. Residents are advised to stay informed through weather updates and have emergency plans in place for safety. Understanding and preparing for Santa Ana winds is crucial for those in affected areas. By taking proactive measures, individuals can minimize their impact on lives and properties.

Preparing for Power Outages with Solar and Battery Backup

When faced with unexpected power outages, preparation is key. Start by ensuring you have basic emergency supplies like flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food. However, these items only provide temporary relief. For a more robust solution, consider how modern technology can keep your home running smoothly even when the grid goes down.

Investing in a solar battery backup system is a forward-thinking approach to power outages. By harnessing solar power, you can store excess solar energy generated by your solar panels. This stored energy can be used during outages, ensuring that your essential appliances remain operational and reducing your reliance on the grid.

Here’s how you can prepare effectively:

• • Invest in a Solar Battery System: By opting for a solar battery backup system, you can store the excess energy your solar panels generate. This stored energy provides seamless backup power during outages, contributing to energy savings and reducing your electricity bills.
  • Professional Installation and Maintenance: Ensure your solar panels and battery system are installed by certified professionals. Regular maintenance will guarantee optimal performance and longevity of your system.
  • Maximize Solar Panel Efficiency: Keep your solar panels clean and free of debris to ensure they generate maximum electricity, which can be stored for later use.
  • Emergency Preparedness Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency plan that includes a first aid kit and a battery-powered radio to stay informed during outages.
  • Consider Alternative Power Sources: For added security, think about investing in a backup generator or other alternative power sources to ensure continuous power supply.

By incorporating solar energy and battery storage into your preparation strategy, you not only ensure your home remains powered during outages but also enjoy long-term energy savings. This proactive approach leads seamlessly into exploring how a solar battery backup system can offer peace of mind and energy independence.

Solar + Energy Storage System: Your Power, Your Control

Imagine this: Instead of scrambling for candles or searching for ice to save your food, your home is powered by a reliable solar and battery system. The lights stay on, your refrigerator keeps running, and your family feels safe and secure, no matter what happens to the grid. That’s the peace of mind SolarTech delivers.

Here’s how it works: Solar batteries work by storing excess energy generated by your solar panels, ensuring you have power when you need it most.

• • 1. Seamless Backup Power During Outages: When the grid goes down, SolarTech’s solar batteries power your home automatically, keeping your home powered. You don’t have to lift a finger.
    2. Savings That Make Sense: With rising electricity rates and time-of-use pricing, solar systems with batteries save you money by storing energy during the day and using it when prices are highest.
    3. Prepared for the Unexpected: Whether it’s high winds, wildfires, or grid instability, SolarTech ensures your family is ready for anything.
    4. Designed for Your Needs: SolarTech solar systems are custom-built for your home, optimizing energy production and storage to fit your lifestyle.

Solar batteries typically last between 5 to 15 years, but with proper care, they can last even longer.

Installation and Maintenance

Proper installation and maintenance of your solar panels and energy storage systems are key to ensuring they operate efficiently and effectively. Here are some essential tips:

• • • Certified Installation: Always have your solar panels installed by a certified professional to ensure they are securely mounted and optimized for maximum energy production.
    • Regular Cleaning: Clean your solar panels regularly to remove dust and debris that can reduce their efficiency.
    • System Checks: Regularly check your solar battery system to ensure it is functioning correctly and efficiently storing energy.
    • Debris-Free: Keep the area around your solar panels and solar battery system free of debris and dust to prevent any potential damage.
    • Monitoring System: Invest in a monitoring system to track the performance of your solar panels and solar battery system, allowing you to address any issues promptly.

By following these guidelines, you can maintain the efficiency and longevity of your solar power system, ensuring it continues to provide reliable energy for your home.

Solar Panels Generate Electricity! Why Now Is the Time to Act!

The recent Santa Ana winds were a stark reminder of how unpredictable our power grid has become. But the solution is within reach. By going solar with battery storage, you can:

• • • • Protect Your Family: Stay safe and comfortable during outages.
      • Reduce Your Bills: Lower your reliance on the grid, save money on energy bills every month, and store excess energy for later use. By storing excess energy generated by your solar panels, you can use it during peak hours or outages, further reducing your reliance on the grid.
      • Help the Environment: Power your home sustainably and reduce your carbon footprint.

Real Stories, Real Results

Families across San Diego who’ve partnered with SolarTech are already enjoying the benefits of energy independence. They’ve swapped worry for confidence and dark nights for well-lit homes.

Over the past 23 years, we have assisted more than 13,000 customers in installing solar systems on their homes, ensuring they remain safe and powered during unexpected power outages. This remarkable achievement highlights our commitment to providing reliable and sustainable energy solutions. Our extensive experience in the solar industry has equipped us with the knowledge and expertise to tailor solar battery systems to meet the specific needs of each household.

As a result, our clients enjoy the benefits of energy independence, reduced electricity bills, and peace of mind knowing that their essential appliances will continue to function seamlessly during power outages.

The adoption of solar power and battery systems not only contributes to individual energy savings but also plays a significant role in reducing the overall carbon footprint, promoting a cleaner and more sustainable environment for future generations. By choosing to go solar, our customers are not only investing in their home’s energy security but also in the well-being of the planet. With the growing unpredictability of the power grid due to natural disasters and other factors, now is the perfect time to make the switch to solar energy.

Take the First Step Today and Start Storing Excess Solar Energy

Don’t wait for the next outage to leave you in the dark. SolarTech makes going solar easy with:

• • • • • Free Consultations: Get a custom solar and battery plan tailored to your needs. Choosing the right solar battery system is crucial to maximize your solar energy investment and ensure reliable power during outages.
        • Flexible Financing Options: Make the switch affordable and stress-free.
        • Expert Installation: Our experienced team handles everything from permits to panels.

Ready to Power Up Your Home?

Click below to schedule your free consultation. Let SolarTech show you how simple it is to protect your family and save money with solar. Our experts will help you determine how many solar batteries you need based on your energy consumption and the size of your solar panel system.

While solar energy is indeed an alternative means of power, it stands out as a sustainable option. With many states embracing solar as a reliable and cost-effective alternative energy source, it’s important for residents to be aware of the various incentives that come with making the switch.

Considering the growing solar community, there are compelling reasons to transition to solar power. The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts a substantial 75% increase in U.S. solar power generation, projecting an ascent from 163 billion kWh in 2023 to 286 billion kWh in 2025.

Investment Tax Credit

One of the most substantial federal incentives for residential solar energy is the Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Originally established in 2005 and extended several times, the ITC allows homeowners to deduct a percentage of their solar system installation costs from their federal income taxes.

For eligibility, the installation of the solar system must be completed within the tax year. Solar PV systems installed in 2020 and 2021 qualify for a 26% tax credit. Congress, in August 2022, extended the ITC to 30% for installations between 2022 and 2032, and those installed on or before December 31, 2019, also retain a 30% tax credit. The credit decreases to 26% for systems installed in 2033 and further reduces to 22% for installations in 2034. Beyond 2034, the tax credit expires unless renewed by Congress.

The ITC has revolutionized the landscape, enhancing the financial feasibility of solar energy for homeowners. By reducing initial costs, it expedites the return on investment for solar installations, making them an appealing choice for a broader spectrum of households.

To be eligible for this tax credit, ensure the following criteria are met:

• Your solar PV system was installed between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2034.
• The solar PV system is located at a U.S. residence.
• You either own the solar PV system outright (purchased with cash or financed, but not leased or paid for electricity from a solar company), or you bought an interest in an off-site community solar project, with electricity credits not exceeding your home’s consumption.

Additionally, the solar PV system must be new or used for the first time, and the credit is applicable only to the original installation of the solar equipment.

Included expenses cover:

• Solar PV panels or PV cells (excluding the fan powered by them).
• Contractor labor costs for onsite preparation, assembly, or original installation, including permitting and inspection fees.
• Balance-of-system equipment such as wiring, inverters, and mounting equipment.
• Energy storage devices with a capacity of 3 kilowatt-hours or more (for systems installed after December 31, 2022), even if installed in a subsequent tax year.
• Sales taxes on eligible expenses.

Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit 

Alongside the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), the Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit is specifically designed for residential renewable energy systems, including solar installations. This credit encompasses 30% of eligible costs for solar property like solar water heaters and solar panels, without any maximum limit. Similar to the ITC, this credit aims to ease the financial burden associated with the initial investment, making the transition to solar energy more attractive to homeowners.

Eligibility for the residential clean energy credit extends to improvements made to your primary residence, whether you own or rent it. The credit is applicable to both new and existing homes within the United States. However, landlords or property owners who do not live in the home are not eligible for the credit.

Expenses eligible for the credit cover various clean energy property types, including solar electric panels, solar water heaters, wind turbines, geothermal heat pumps, and fuel cells. Beginning in 2023, battery storage technology is also included. However, previously owned clean energy property is not eligible. Qualified expenses may encompass labor costs for onsite preparation, assembly, or original installation, as well as piping or wiring for connection to the home. Traditional building components primarily serving roofing or structural functions generally do not qualify, except for solar roofing tiles and solar shingles that generate clean energy.

Homeowners contemplating solar installations are advised to seek guidance from tax professionals to maximize the benefits of these tax credits. This ensures compliance with necessary requirements for claiming these incentives.

Federal Solar Grants and Rebates

In addition to tax credits and depreciation benefits, the federal government offers various grants and rebates to further support residential solar energy adoption. These incentives are often administered by state or local agencies, providing additional financial assistance to homeowners looking to make the switch to solar.

The availability and amount of solar grants and rebates can vary based on geographical location and specific program criteria. Homeowners are encouraged to explore local opportunities and leverage federal support to make their solar investment more cost-effective.

Summary

The federal incentives for residential solar energy play a pivotal role in fostering a sustainable and eco-friendly future. Through mechanisms like the Investment Tax Credit, Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit, and various grants and rebates, the government encourages homeowners to embrace solar power solutions. These incentives not only reduce the financial barriers associated with solar installations but also contribute to the overall growth of the renewable energy sector.

As we move forward, it is essential for policymakers to continue refining and expanding these incentives to keep pace with technological advancements and the increasing importance of renewable energy. By doing so, we can ensure that residential solar energy remains an accessible and attractive option for homeowners, driving us closer to a future powered by clean and sustainable energy sources.

Do you have questions about how you can take advantage of these Federal Incentives? Schedule a consult with one of our professionals, and we’ll help you get the best deal to go solar for your home!

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About SolarTech

SolarTech is a premier, licensed solar provider for California & Arizona, and an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau. We’ve been providing turnkey solar solutions for residential, commercial, and non-profit customers for over 20 years.

Whether we’re installing a residential solar system or a large multi-array commercial solar project, our mission is to inform our customers so they can make the best economic decisions for their energy lifestyle, lower their utility costs, and make a commitment to a better future with clean energy.

What is Title 24?

Title 24 is a set of building energy efficiency standards adopted by the California Energy Commission (CEC). Title 24 is updated every three years to reflect new technologies and energy efficiency trends. These requirements include HVAC systems, lighting, energy efficiency measures, building envelope, and water heating.

What are the new solar and energy storage requirements for multi-family housing? 

The latest Title 24 regulations are the following:   

• Low-rise multifamily buildings must have solar zones covering at least 15% of the total roof area, excluding skylights. These solar zones can be situated on the roof, building overhangs, or overhangs of nearby structures within a 250-foot radius. This requirement applies to structures with mixed occupancy as well, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
• For low-rise multifamily buildings with interior common areas, occupant sensors must control up to 20% of the floor area, optimizing energy usage in these shared spaces.
• The updated lighting requirements entail several key provisions. Permanent labels indicating maximum rate wattage must be prominently displayed. Each room should have independent manual controls for personalized lighting adjustments. Moreover, multi-level lighting control options and improved shutoff controls, including occupant sensors, automatic time switches, and similar devices, are mandated.
• Multi-family buildings are now required to incorporate on-site renewable energy systems. This necessitates developers to offset approximately 50-60% of both the building and tenant’s total energy consumption, promoting sustainable practices and reducing reliance on non-renewable sources.
• A battery is now required alongside solar PV systems, with its size determined by the size of the solar system.

By adhering to these updated guidelines, low-rise multifamily buildings can enhance their energy efficiency, embrace renewable energy, and contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

What are the new solar and energy storage requirements for industrial and commercial?

California’s Title 24 has implemented new provisions impacting industrial and commercial projects permitted since Jan. 1, 2023. SolarTech can help navigate these regulations and showcase the benefits of solar and energy storage on your property.

Key provisions include: 

• The mandate for photovoltaic (PV) systems and energy storage
• PV systems must meet approximately 60% of buildings’ electricity loads based on factors such as conditioned floor area, climate zone, and building type.
• Electric Vehicle (EV) charging requirements, including EV-capable spaces and chargers. Larger parking lots must have EV chargers installed, with the percentage varying based on size.
• Battery storage is now required alongside solar PV systems for all new constructions, with the size of the battery’s storage system determined by the size of the solar system.

How to comply with the new Title 24 requirements

There are several ways to comply with the new Title 24 requirements. One option is to work with SolarTech who is familiar with the requirements and install the required amount accordingly. Another option is to monetize energy as the Landlord, described below.

How to generate revenue with solar

These requirements present opportunities for monetizing the energy transition. Industrial and multi-family owners can benefit by offering discounted power to tenants, effectively increasing net operating income and creating an added recurring revenue stream. By installing solar to offset tenant usage, the landlord becomes the energy producer for the property.

Through tenant billing and Virtual Net Metering (VNEM), owners can allocate billing credits based on individual tenant consumption, making it financially advantageous for both single-tenant and multi-tenant scenarios.

By embracing these requirements and exploring innovative solutions, building owners and developers can not only comply with regulations but also unlock financial benefits and contribute to a sustainable future.

SolarTech provides turnkey solutions in solar, energy storage, and EV charging stations. From compliance with Title 24 to providing tailor-made financing options, our experts partner with owners on all their renewable energy needs. Get in contact with one of our experts today. We’ll make sure you project is Title 24 compliant.

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The U.S. Department of Energy defines a microgrid as a controllable entity composed of interconnected loads and Distributed Energy Resources (DER) within specific electrical boundaries.

The main components of a microgrid are DER such as solar energy or wind turbines, energy storage in the form of batteries, and an intelligent controller that manages the energy resources and batteries with a high degree of sophistication.  A microgrid controller is the brain of the entire system. The controller manages the various components to meet a customer’s energy goals effectively. Whether it is to cut demand costs or have electric reliability, intelligent software makes optimal decisions in using energy from the grid or to store in batteries.

What type of microgrids exist?

There are three main types of microgrids: grid-connected, remote, and networked.

Grid-Connected Microgrids

They have a physical connection to the utility grid via a switching mechanism and can disconnect into island mode and reconnect back to the main grid as needed. Grid-connected microgrids that are effectively integrated with the utility service provider can provide grid services and help address potential capacity, demand response, reliability, and voltage regulation on the utility grid. Grid-connected microgrids have gained immense popularity at hospitals, fire stations, and universities. With controllers tracking real-time utility prices and leveraging this variability, microgrids can consistently provide lower energy costs.

Remote Microgrids

Remote microgrids, also called off-grid microgrids, are isolated from the utility grid and always operate in island mode due to the lack of affordable and available transmission or distribution infrastructure nearby. These systems are best suited for powering operations in distant and hard-to-reach geographic locations.  Customers have 100% electric reliability and interdependence from the central grid.

Networked Microgrids

Networked microgrids are composed of several separate DERs connected to the same utility grid circuit segment and serve a wide geographic area. These systems are typically managed and optimized by a control system to operate and coordinate each grid-connected or island mode at different tiers of hierarchy along the utility grid circuit segment. Networked microgrids are deployed for community microgrids and smart cities.

From resiliency to economics, microgrids benefit all stakeholders in a community. Customers can manage their energy costs while having insurance against grid outages. Critical infrastructure such as hospitals, police stations, and fire departments can ensure their ability to provide services for their communities. With heightened worries about grid reliability, the pace of installation has grown dramatically and will continue to see growth in the coming years.

Did you know you can create a new revenue source with Solar for your commercial buildings? We’ll show you how.

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Solar Roof Mount

A solar roof mount is a system where solar panels are installed directly on the roof of a building. Here are some of the pros and cons of this approach.

Pros:

• Better return on investment: With the lack of a steel structure for a carport, a roof mount provides a more cost-effective option provided that the same amount of offset can be generated as a carport.
• Space-saving: Solar roof mounts are a space-saving option as they do not require any additional land or space. This makes them an ideal choice for businesses that have limited space. They do not obstruct signage and are often not visible from the ground.
• Easy installation: Solar roof mounts are relatively easy to install and require less labor. The installation process can be completed in a short period.

Cons:

• Roof life: A typical commercial property’s roof life is 20-25 years old depending on environmental factors. Before an investment in solar, the remaining roof life needs to be determined to ensure a roof replacement is not needed during the first 20 years after an installation. This can add to the investment. That being said, a roof replacement can receive the same tax incentives as a commercial solar installation when packaged together.
• Limited capacity: Solar roof mounts have restricted capacity and can only generate a limited amount of energy, depending on the size of the installation. AC vents, skylights, and other items can obstruct solar panels from being installed.

Solar Carport

A solar carport is a structure that is designed to provide shelter to parked vehicles while also generating solar energy. Here are some of the pros and cons of this approach:

Pros:

• Utilizing space: Solar carports allow Landlords and businesses to utilize their large parking areas to monetize or provide savings on energy. Without the clutter on roofs, carports can provide a larger area to install panels and lead to a better bottom line.
• Easy maintenance: Solar carports are relatively easy to maintain, as the panels are not attached directly to the building and have no roof life to account for.
• Shading: Additionally, solar carports provide shade for cars and added protection from adverse weather conditions.

Cons:

• Cost of installation: Solar carports require a steel structure to be built. Steel is an additional material that is not a part of roof mounts thus an added cost.
• Longer timelines: The permit process for a solar carport usually adds about a month to the timeline compared to a roof mount. It requires supplementary inspections and testing to determine if they are feasible on a property.
• Land requirements: Solar carports require a large parking area for them to be cost-efficient, which can be a challenge for businesses with limited space.

Both solar roof mounts and carports have their advantages and disadvantages. While solar roof mounts are a more cost-efficient option and easy to install, they require roof maintenance and have limited capacity. On the other hand, solar carports may provide a larger area to install panels and are easy to maintain, but they are typically a higher investment and add to the timeline. In either scenario, both types of installations allow a Property Owner to take advantage of the energy arbitrage.

Interested in having solar for your commercial property? Read more about its benefits here

At SolarTech, we partner with Property Owners to assist them in the decision of whether a Rooftop Solar or Solar Carpot presents the best return on investment. You can get this professional solar help by contacting us today.

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This is not a good look for Tesla customers who have spent significant amounts of money investing in the Tesla solar division only to be refunded and must start from square one. In 2016, Tesla acquired its solar business by taking over SolarCity. Since then, Tesla has gained much momentum with a record-breaking quarter in Q2 of 2022. Their energy storage division delivered a record number of batteries in Q3 2022 as well. So why would Tesla make the announcement to cancel many solar projects in some markets, even some that have already begun?

In Q3, Tesla decided to stop scheduling solar roof projects in most markets. With the world’s first Tesla solar neighborhood becoming a reality in Austin, much of the focus will be put here. This unfortunately means much smaller-scale residential projects in specific areas will begin to be shut down in some markets. Tesla explains that these specific areas include: the greater Los Angeles area, northern California, Oregon, and Florida. This is very monumental for third-party installers, especially since Tesla has mentioned they will refer customers to certified installers.

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LG Too?

LG decided to pull out of the solar panel business in June of 2022. Their official statement is below:

“The decision was based on factors like increasing material costs, increasing logistics costs, and supply chain constraints. This announcement looks ahead as LG concentrates on other high-value products and services like energy storage systems and energy management solutions. “(2)

The company has stated that they will continue to honor and support all limited warranties in the US as well.

While both multimillion-dollar companies are reducing their residential solar divisions, SolarTech offers a wide range of products for homeowners and even business owners. From residential solar panels to energy storage to even pool heating panels.

Call today for a FREE solar quote and up to $2,000 off!

www.solartechlive.wpenginepowered.com (619) 743-9198

References

Why is California doing this?

According to the California Air Resources Board (CARB), California is banning the sale of gas-powered lawnmowers by 2024 because operating a commercial one for an hour “emits as much smog-forming pollution as driving the best-selling 2016 passenger car, a Toyota Camry, about 300 miles – approximately the distance from Los Angeles to Las Vegas.”*  Furthermore, CARB concluded that one hour of using a commercial leaf blower is equivalent to driving 1100 miles from LA to Denver!**

Leaf-blowers and lawnmowers are classified as Small Off-road Engines, or SORES. As of 2017, there were nearly 16.5 million SORE’s in California, which was greater than the 13.7 million light-duty passenger cars in the state. SORE’s are responsible for serious health risks, according to the law’s sponsors, as they emit high levels of reactive organic gases (ROG), particulate matter (PM) and oxides of nitrogen (NOx). Not only are these emissions harmful to those operating this equipment, they’re also harmful to neighborhoods and the environment at large.

What does the lawn mower ban mean for you?

As a business or homeowner, it’s time to equip yourself for the electric future. Protecting the welfare of your family and your employees is vital to the success and survival of both your family and business. Not only must you consider the health and safety of those around you, must also consider the costs that come with transitioning to an all-electric future.

How can you combat these new expenses?

With energy rates continuously rising every year, it’s important to consider just how expensive it will be to make the transition from gas-powered machinery to electric. This is more of an immediate concern as it has immediate costs. It’s even more important to consider the long-term costs of this transition, like how are you going to pay to charge all of that equipment?

Energy storage is the answer.

The energy storage solutions offered by SolarTech are designed to help home/business owners combat the egregious expenses of energy use in Southern California. When charging in Southern California, many utilities have programs called on-peak periods or time-of-use rates, that are designed to charge higher electric rates during different times of the day. Energy storage solutions allow you to combat those on-peak times and charge using YOUR own stored energy.

When you are producing your own energy with solar and saving your own energy with energy storage, you can keep the expense of electricity down, while keeping your business running. This might initially seem like a huge blow to your business or even home life, but if you prepare yourself for this future then you’ll be ready for it when it comes.

Go solar today!

SolarTech has been powering California for over 20 years and we are committed to delivering the best possible service to our customers. Our representatives work with you to understand your desires and needs, and to provide the best energy solution for you. We are committed to complete customer satisfaction, which we achieve by offering quality products, professional installation, and outstanding value.

Call (619) 743-9193 For a Free Quote

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