At times it feels like we are solar psychologists. To effectively help property owners evaluate solar, we ask a lot of questions and — importantly — try out best to listen … two ears, one mouth.
Our initial consultation with property owners generally begins with a two questions: Why solar? Why now? The sentiment of property owners falls into two camps: Pragmatic/economic, and/or idealistic/environmental.
Over the past month, we have had several dozen conversations with property owners. Here’s a sampling of contemporary reactions to the two Why? questions, shared in no particular order (with a heavy dose of PG&E sentiments):
- I’ve been putting it off; now seems like the right time to go solar.
- I am installing a new roof. Installing solar at the same time seems sensible. (This is common … we are currently orchestrating more than 10 re-roof + solar installations.)
- I looked at solar a while back and it didn’t pencil. Now that the cost of panels has dropped and PG&E’s rates have gone up, I want to learn if it’s feasible.
- PG&E’s rates are going to continue to go up, particularly with their bankruptcy and accrued liabilities for the fires.
- I want to do my part and reduce my carbon footprint.
- I am sick of PG&E and do not trust them.
- I just got an electric vehicle (or, plan to do so soon); now seems like the right time.
- The tax credit is going down at the end of the year (from 30% to 26%) … I do not want to lose out.
- I believe solar is the right way to go from an ecological perspective … we need to produce more clean energy/solar power.
- I just bought my house and it doesn’t have solar.
- I want to improve the value of my home.
- I am installing an electric heat pump, plan to go all-electric powered by solar.
- I believe solar is the right thing to do over the long run, economically and environmentally.
- My bills are really high; I’m tired of paying PG&E.
- PG&E’s problems are only getting worse. With solar, I can lock in my cost of electricity.
- I just retired and will use more electricity in the future.
- Solar is socially responsible, but I’m not sure if it’s financially reasonable.
- I have done everything I can to improve the energy efficiency of my home. Now, it’s time to consider solar.
Our opinions:
- Solar does not make sense for everyone.
- If you intend to own your home for more than five years, solar is worthy of consideration.
- There is no urgency to go solar; do not buy the, “you’ve gotta go solar by this date for this reason.”
- PG&E’s rates will continue to inflate; by what amount and when, nobody knows.
- Solar is the simplest and most effective way to reduce your carbon footprint and mitigate against future PG&E rate increases.
We are happy to engage in a conversation and help you contemplate solar. Feel free to stop by our workspace or contact us today to schedule your no-cost evaluation.
