While solar power is known as an extremely effective alternative to conventional energy sources such as coal, natural gas, and nuclear power, it may not be for everyone. Ask yourself these questions before you decide to invest in a solar system:
Am I eligible for low-income solar programs?
There are several solar programs, both residential and community, available to qualified low-income PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E customers, with no extra costs.
Would solar work for my home?
As solar systems derive their power from sunlight, they work best in homes that receive lots of sunlight daily. Ideally, your roof should not face due north or be blocked by any trees or nearby structures.
In many cases, you might not be a good candidate for a residential solar program and may want to consider a community solar program instead. Unlike residential programs, 50-100% of the electricity in a community program comes from various solar structures located across California. If your roof is shaded or faces due north, joining a community solar program might be more sensible. You might also consider a community program if you are currently renting your property or plan to replace your roof.
Whether your electricity bill will increase or decrease depends on the type of program you choose, so discuss with your electricity provider before making any decisions.
Have I adopted energy-saving habits and strategies of my own?
By simply adopting your own energy-efficient habits, you can cut your energy consumption significantly, decreasing the size of the solar system you need and saving yourself thousands of dollars in turn.
You can ask your electricity provider for tips on conserving energy by calling them or visiting their website and get advice on how to apply for an in-person home energy assessment.
Low-Income Solar Programs Available to PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E Customers
You may qualify for one of these programs if you
Currently receive or qualify for a discounted electricity bill through the California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE)
Currently receive or qualify for a discounted electricity bill through Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA)
Live in a DAC (which is a disadvantaged community that is vulnerable to multiple sources of pollution—you can check to see if you live in a qualified DAC at https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/SolarInDACs.)
SASH Program and DAC-SASH Program
The SASH Program provides discounted rooftop solar for income-qualified single-families. If you qualify, your family can get assistance installing solar at low-cost. The DAC-SASH program is designed for CARE- or FERA-eligible single-family homeowners that live in a disadvantaged community (DAC). If you qualify, your family can get assistance installing solar.
See if you qualify by visiting www.gridalternatives.org/qualify or by calling GRID Alternatives at 1-866-921-4696.
DAC-GREEN Tariff Program
The DAC-Green Tariff Program is designed for eligible households that live in a disadvantaged community (DAC). Participants can have 100 percent of their electricity offset by solar generation and receive a 20 percent discount on their electricity bills. In this program, you do not have to install solar on your roof. The solar is installed elsewhere and the bill credits are assigned to you.
See https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/SolarInDACs for more information on eligibility and how to sign up.
Community Solar Green Tariff Program
The Community Solar Green Tariff Program allows households in a disadvantaged community to subscribe to a solar farm within 5 miles of their neighborhood and receive a 20 percent discount on their electricity bills.
See https://www.cpuc.ca.gov/SolarInDACs for more information on eligibility and how to sign up.
If you are not a PG&E, SCE, or SDG&E customer, call your electricity provider or check their website to see if any low-income solar options are available to you.
Source: www.cpuc.ca.gov/solarguide
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