Solar panels are easy on your pocketbook, healthier and safer for the environment, and last for many years. But there are a few common misconceptions about how installing a solar power system affects you financially. Let’s see if we can clarify a couple of common solar myths and help you understand what to expect.
Solar Energy Misconception #1: After You Go Solar, You’ll No Longer Receive a Power Bill
In most parts of California, you’re legally required to stay on the grid and to purchase a $10 power connection fee each month. Your power bill should consist of that ten dollars, plus a Kilowatt usage statement for the month. (You’re not billed for the Kilowatts monthly. Those statements are issued annually).
Our goal at Aurora Energy is to get you to “net-zero”, meaning the energy you produce is equal to the energy you use. Some months you may use more than your system produces, and other months you should use less. We’ll design you a system with a goal of net-zero, but you will still get a bill in the mail each month for your connection fee and one at the end of the year for any overages. The good news is that those numbers will be a LOT lower than you’re used to seeing. And if your solar panels produce more power than you consume over the course of the year, you’ll even get a reimbursement.
Misconception #2: The Only Way to Go Solar is to Enter a PPA (Power Purchase Agreement)
Another misconception is about the financial options you have when it comes to getting your new solar energy system. Many companies offer only PPAs. With a PPA, or Power Purchase Agreement, you don’t actually own the system. You’re paying to use what the system provides. We install your solar power system and you purchase the energy back from us for way less than what you’re paying now to the utility company. In reality, our customers go solar in many different ways. We offer a variety of financing options, and we also have a fair number of customers who pay cash. But you don’t have to go with one of our financing options! You’re welcome to shop around. We help customers who choose other options for paying for their solar panels, including home equity loans and even unsecured credit lines, such as credit cards.
Now that we’ve dispelled these common misconceptions, we hope you have a better understanding about going solar. Our design team can’t wait to help you get started saving money and living a greener lifestyle. Contact us today to set up a meeting and get a quote. We look forward to hearing from you!
