Solar + Battery
Are you thinking about going solar?
If you’re considering adding solar panels and/or batteries to your home or if you already have solar or storage, you’re in the right place.
We have valuable rebates, information, and support to make sure you get the most out of solar and spend as little as possible.
Solar Owners
Do you already have solar?
If you’re one of the millions who are already enjoying the benefits of free, clean, and renewable energy from your solar panels and/or batteries, we can help you get even more out of your setup.
If you don’t already have solar, learn more below.
Solar + Battery
Independence & savings
Going solar helps protect you from rising electricity costs and reduces your dependence on the grid.
Yes, we sell electricity. But our bigger mission is to ensure that you and everyone in our community have all of the clean electricity you need without harming the environment. We’re a not-for-profit clean electricity provider, and we’re here to support your solar-powered lifestyle with rebates, energy credits, contractor recommendations, and more.
In case you are wondering—no, we don’t install solar panels or batteries, so you can be confident that the information and support we provide is objective and not biased.
Solar Credits & True-Up
Get paid for your excess electricity
In addition to lowering your monthly electricity costs, we will also pay you for the electricity you generate but don’t use. In fact, we pay you about $1-$2 per month more than you’d get from PG&E. Is it a lot more? No. But every penny counts. Plus, unlike PG&E’s annual true-up, we balance what we owe you (or what you owe us) every month. With our monthly true-up, there aren’t any electricity bill surprises at the end of the year.
Would you like to know more about how to get paid for your excess electricity under SBP (Solar Billing Plan)?
Cost & Compare
Is going solar worth it?
Free electricity from the sun is an attractive idea. But the upfront costs of installing a solar system can get expensive. Depending on many factors, it could pay off over time—but how long will it take? And what would the savings look like?
We don’t install or sell solar, so we are the right people to provide you with unbiased information to help you decide if installing solar and/or batteries is worth it.
Here’s a good calculator you can use to see if solar makes financial sense for you:
Should I opt out of PCE if I go solar?
Not if you want to save money. We pay you about $1-$2 more per month than you will get from PG&E for your excess solar electricity. That’s not a big difference—but it puts more money in your pocket. Plus, if you need more electricity than your panels can produce, our rates are cheaper than PG&E’s.
Would you like more details on getting paid for your excess electricity on our Solar Billing Plan?
Benefits
Why solar + battery?
Creating and storing clean, renewable energy at home can give you energy independence and reduce your monthly energy bills even more.
It’s an exciting idea: to be self-sufficient, running your home, vehicle, and life at a maximum level of efficiency, safety, and affordability. But it’s not just a nice idea—it’s a reality. There are obvious benefits, like not paying a utility for electricity or spending a lot less on electricity. But other advantages aren’t as obvious.
Here are a few examples:
Battery Installation
Store energy with or without solar
Installing a battery to store energy at home can help you capture excess solar energy, take advantage of off-peak (lower-cost) electricity rates, and stay powered up during blackouts.
Solar + Battery Resources
Great info from unbiased sources
Yes, we provide electricity, but our larger mission is to ensure that you and everyone in our community have all the clean electricity you need. So we 100% support solar and batteries.
Here is a convenient list of unbiased information sources, so you can make the solar and battery choices that work for you.
Testimonials
What your neighbors are saying about solar
Here are some videos of PCE customers sharing their journeys to creating a clean electricity ecosystem right at home.
The Wilcox Home
An all-electric home
Local resident Michael Wilcox shares the economics of moving toward an all-electric home, plus some pleasant surprises he had along the way.
The Garcia-Mendez home
(al español with subtitles)
Menlo Park resident Margarita Mendez shares how rebates made going electric more affordable than she thought, and how she’s saving money in a home that is now even more comfortable.
The Szeto home
Using a 100 amp panel
Are you being told that you have to increase your main electrical panel to something more that 100 amps? The Szetos converted to all electric, added solar and a battery, and accomplished all of this with a 100-Amp electric service.
Rebates & Tax Incentives
Save money by going solar
If you think it’s a good idea to go solar or install batteries at home, we and the U.S. government agree. Tax incentives and rebates are available to you when you’re ready to claim more energy independence from the grid and take advantage of clean, renewable, and cheaper energy.
Get more details about the 25D Residential Clean Energy Property Credit, and find out if you’re eligible to take advantage of the program.
Solar + Battery FAQ
Frequently asked questions
We don’t like financial surprises, and we’re guessing you don’t either. So we true-up every month to help you keep your account balanced. Unlike PG&E that trues-up once a year, we eliminate any surprises by truing up your account as you use and produce electricity from your solar panels.
No. We encourage you to install solar and batteries, but we are an affordable energy provider—not a retailer or installer.
Imagine reducing your carbon footprint and saving money on your electricity bill at the same time. That’s the power of solar panels! By harnessing the sun’s energy, you can generate clean, renewable electricity for your home. It’s like having your own little power plant on your roof.
The cost can vary depending on factors like the size of your home, the type of solar panels you choose, and any government incentives or rebates available in your area. But generally, the upfront cost can be significant. Think of it like buying a new roof. However, the long-term savings on your electricity bill can make it a worthwhile investment.
Solar panels are designed to last for 25 to 30 years or more. They’re built to withstand harsh weather conditions and maintain their efficiency over time. It’s like investing in a long-lasting asset.
Yes, most often—but it depends on your local regulations. Some areas require permits for solar panel installations. It’s best to check with your local building department to be sure. Think of it like getting a permit to add a new roof.
The best solar power system depends on your energy needs and budget. Consider factors like the size of your home, your daily energy consumption, and the orientation of your roof. It’s like choosing the right smartphone for your lifestyle. You want something that meets your needs and fits your budget. Also consider how long it will take to make your money back on your system. Will you move before the system pays for itself?
Imagine having your own personal power plant at home. That’s what batteries can do for your solar power system! They store excess energy generated during the day, so you can use it at night or during power outages. Think of it as a rainy-day fund for your electricity. Plus, with rising energy costs, batteries can help you save money in the long run.
The cost can vary depending on the size of your system and the type of batteries you choose. But generally, it’s a significant investment. Think of it like buying a new car. However, government incentives and rebates can help offset the cost. And remember, the savings you’ll make on your electricity bill over time can make it a worthwhile investment.
Solar batteries typically last 5 to 10 years. But don’t worry—battery technology is constantly improving, and new models are becoming more efficient and durable. It’s like upgrading your smartphone every few years.
Yes, generally—but it depends on your local regulations. Some areas require permits for battery installations. It’s best to check with your local building department to be sure. Think of it like getting a permit to build a deck.
The best battery system for you depends on your energy needs and budget. Consider factors like your home’s size, daily energy consumption, and overall solar system capacity. It’s like choosing the right smartphone for your lifestyle. You want something that meets your needs and fits your budget.
Solar + Battery Support
Need help?
Going solar and installing batteries involve a lot of consideration. If you have additional questions or concerns, we’re here to help.
