Our Residential Customers

When you decide to go solar, you’re making a 25-year investment in your home. But many people overlook the most critical component supporting that investment: your roof. Installing solar panels on an old or damaged roof can lead to costly problems down the road. That’s why a successful project requires expertise in both solar technology and roofing integrity. This guide explains why a holistic approach is so important for long-term performance and peace of mind. We’ll explore a recent long beach solar roofing project where we ensured the foundation was as solid as the technology on top, creating a seamless, durable system built to last. It’s about doing the job right, from the shingles up.

About Our Long Beach Property

Owner: Dan Hopper

Type: Residential

Address: Claremore Ave.,, Long Beach, CA

Understanding the Costs and Incentives of Solar

Thinking about going solar often starts with one big question: What’s it going to cost? While installing a solar system is a significant home investment, the sticker price isn't the final number you'll pay. A combination of federal, state, and local incentives can dramatically reduce the overall cost, making solar more accessible than ever. These programs are designed to encourage homeowners to switch to clean energy, and understanding how to use them is the first step toward a lower electricity bill and greater energy independence. Think of it less as a single expense and more as a long-term investment with some serious financial perks along the way.

Maximizing the Federal Solar Tax Credit

One of the most impactful incentives available to homeowners across the country is the federal solar tax credit. Officially known as the Residential Clean Energy Credit, this program was designed to make renewable energy more affordable for everyone. It’s not a simple deduction but a dollar-for-dollar credit that reduces the amount of federal income tax you owe. This credit is a powerful tool that can take a huge chunk out of the net cost of your solar installation, making it a critical piece of the financial puzzle when you’re planning your switch to solar energy.

How the Residential Clean Energy Credit Works

The Residential Clean Energy Credit allows you to claim 30% of the total cost of your new solar energy system. This isn't just for the panels themselves; it also applies to all the necessary equipment, including inverters, wiring, and even the installation labor. If you decide to include a battery storage system with your solar panel installation, the cost of the battery is also eligible for the 30% credit. This makes it an excellent opportunity to build a resilient system that can keep your home powered during an outage while maximizing your financial return.

Calculating Your Credit Amount

Calculating your credit is straightforward: it’s 30% of the total project cost. For example, if your solar system costs $25,000 to install, your tax credit would be $7,500, which you can subtract directly from your federal tax liability. This 30% rate is available for systems installed anytime between 2022 and the end of 2032, giving you a wide window to take advantage of the savings. To get a clearer idea of your potential costs and savings, you can use an estimate calculator to model your specific home and energy needs.

California-Specific Incentives

On top of the federal tax credit, California residents have access to additional state-level incentives that make going solar even more attractive. The Golden State is a leader in renewable energy, and its policies reflect a strong commitment to helping homeowners make the switch. These programs are designed to address specific local needs, from easing the financial burden of installation to encouraging the adoption of energy storage solutions that help stabilize the power grid for everyone. Taking advantage of these California-specific perks is key to getting the most value out of your solar investment.

Property Tax Exclusion for Solar Systems

Normally, a significant home improvement that adds value to your property also increases your property taxes. However, California offers a property tax exclusion for newly installed solar energy systems. This means you can add a valuable asset to your home without worrying about a higher tax bill. This incentive ensures that the financial benefits of your solar system aren't diminished by annual tax increases, allowing you to enjoy the full value of your investment for years to come. It’s a simple but powerful benefit that makes the financial case for solar in California even stronger.

Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) for Batteries

For homeowners looking to add energy storage, California’s Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) offers a substantial rebate for installing a battery backup system. This program is especially valuable in areas prone to public safety power shutoffs or blackouts, as it makes energy independence more affordable. The SGIP can significantly reduce the cost of adding a battery to your solar setup, providing you with peace of mind and a reliable power source when the grid goes down. You can learn more about eligibility and rebate amounts on the official SGIP website.

Financing Your Solar System

Even with incentives, the upfront cost of a solar system can feel daunting. The good news is that you don’t have to pay for it all at once. A variety of financing options are available to help you manage the cost of your solar installation, often allowing you to start saving on your electricity bills from day one. From specialized solar loans to traditional financing products, there are pathways that can make your transition to solar smooth and financially manageable. Exploring these options is a practical step toward achieving your clean energy goals without straining your budget.

Comparing Installer Financing vs. Private Loans

When you start getting quotes from solar installers, many will offer their own financing plans. While convenient, it’s always a smart move to compare their offer with private loans from a bank or credit union. Options like a home equity line of credit (HELOC) might come with a lower interest rate, saving you a lot of money over the life of the loan. A trusted solar partner will encourage you to explore all your options and help you understand the pros and cons of each. The goal is to find a financing solution that fits your financial situation perfectly.

The Benefits of Owning vs. Leasing

When you’re looking at solar, you’ll likely encounter two main options: owning or leasing. While leasing might seem attractive due to a lower initial outlay, owning your system is almost always the better long-term financial decision. The most important reason is that you can only claim the 30% federal tax credit if you own the system. Furthermore, owning your solar panels means they become an asset that adds tangible value to your home. A leased system, on the other hand, can sometimes complicate a future home sale. Ownership puts you in full control of your energy and your investment.

Choosing the Right Solar Technology

Type: Solar PV

Installed: April 2022

Size of System: 8000 kW

Traditional Panels vs. Solar Roof Shingles

When you picture solar, you probably think of the traditional panels you see on rooftops. But there's another option gaining attention: solar roof shingles. These are designed to look like regular roof shingles while generating electricity from the sun, offering a more integrated aesthetic for homeowners who prioritize curb appeal. While they can be a sleek alternative, they often come with a significantly higher price tag. For many homeowners, traditional solar panels remain the more practical and cost-effective choice, delivering powerful performance and a faster return on your investment. The key is ensuring your roof is in great shape before installing anything, which is why working with a company that understands both solar and roofing solutions is so important for long-term success.

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your budget, aesthetic preferences, and energy goals. Traditional panels are a proven, reliable technology that offers excellent efficiency for the cost. Solar shingles provide a seamless look but can be much more expensive. For this Long Beach home, we went with a traditional solar PV system to maximize energy production and savings. If you're weighing your options, it helps to get a clear picture of what each choice means for your home and wallet. A professional consultation can help you compare the long-term value and find the perfect solar solution for your specific needs, ensuring you feel confident in your investment for years to come.

Sizing Your System Correctly: The 20% Rule

One of the most common questions I hear is, "How many solar panels do I actually need?" It’s tempting to think you should aim to cover 100% of your energy usage, but there’s a helpful guideline called the "20% rule." This principle suggests that your solar system should be designed to produce about 80% of your home's electricity needs. Why not 100%? Because factors like cloudy days, panel maintenance, and slight performance variations mean your system won't always operate at peak capacity. According to OUPES, this 20% buffer accounts for these real-world issues, ensuring your system design is both realistic and efficient without overbuilding.

This rule is a great starting point, but a truly optimized system requires a more personal touch. Your energy consumption patterns, roof orientation, and future plans (like buying an electric vehicle) all play a role in determining the perfect system size. That's why a custom design is so crucial. At AMECO, our approach involves a detailed analysis of your energy bills and a conversation about your goals to create a system that’s just right for you. This ensures you’re not overpaying for a system that’s too large or getting stuck with one that’s too small to meet your needs, giving you the best possible return on your investment.

Why Battery Storage is a Game-Changer in California

For California homeowners, going solar is about more than just saving money on electricity bills; it's about gaining energy independence. With rolling blackouts and unpredictable grid stability, having a reliable power source is a huge relief. This is where battery storage comes in. Adding a solar battery to your system allows you to store the excess energy your panels generate during the day. That means you have a reserve of power ready to go at night or, more importantly, during an outage. You can keep your lights on, your refrigerator running, and your essential devices charged, all without relying on the grid, providing invaluable peace of mind.

The financial incentives make batteries an even smarter investment for Californians. The state's Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) offers significant rebates that can help offset the cost of adding storage to your solar system. According to Sunburst Solar, the SGIP can provide rebates that cover a substantial portion of the cost of a battery storage system, making energy resilience more accessible than ever. This program allows you to protect your home from outages while taking another step toward a sustainable future. It’s a powerful combination of security and savings that’s perfectly suited for the modern California homeowner looking for control over their power.

Using Stored Energy During Peak Hours

Beyond blackout protection, a battery unlocks a powerful strategy for maximizing your solar savings: beating time-of-use (TOU) rates. Most utility companies in California charge higher electricity rates during "peak hours," typically from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., when energy demand is highest. With a battery, you can use your own stored solar energy during these expensive hours instead of pulling pricey power from the grid. This simple shift can dramatically lower your monthly electricity bills. As Long Beach Solar notes, this strategy lets you use your solar power later or sell it back to the grid when it's most valuable, putting you in control of your energy costs and making your solar investment work even harder for you.

Finding Your Long Beach Solar Installation Team

Products:‍

Enphase Energy

‍REC (San Mateo, CA)

How to Find a Licensed Contractor

Finding the right team for your solar installation is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Your first step should always be to verify that any potential installer is a licensed contractor. The Contractors State License Board is your best friend here; you can easily look up and verify a contractor's license on the cslb.ca.gov website. A valid license is more than just a piece of paper—it’s your assurance that the contractor meets state standards for experience and knowledge. Working with an established company that has a long history in the community, like AMECO’s 50-plus years of combined solar and roofing expertise, provides an extra layer of confidence that your project is in capable hands.

Getting Multiple Quotes

Once you have a shortlist of licensed contractors, the next step is to gather several quotes. Aim to get at least three to five different price quotes for your project. This isn't just about finding the cheapest option; it's about understanding the value each company offers. A good quote will break down the costs of equipment, labor, and permits. It also gives you a chance to compare the quality of the proposed solar panels and inverters, the warranties offered, and the overall approach each company takes. Pay attention to how they answer your questions. Do they take the time to explain everything clearly? A thorough and transparent quoting process is often a good indicator of the customer service you can expect down the line.

Navigating the Long Beach Solar Permit Process

The thought of dealing with permits can be intimidating, but the City of Long Beach is actively encouraging homeowners to go solar. They recognize that solar panels help create clean energy and provide a more stable electrical grid for everyone. To make it easier, most of the permitting process, including the submission of plans and applications, can be completed online. For many standard rooftop solar projects, there’s even an expedited online process to speed things up. The best part is that you don’t have to handle this alone. A seasoned installer will manage the entire permitting process on your behalf, ensuring all paperwork is filed correctly and your project complies with local regulations, making the experience seamless for residential customers.

What to Look for in a Solar Warranty

A solar warranty is your system's safety net, so it’s crucial to understand what’s covered. You should look for three main types of protection: an equipment warranty, a performance warranty, and a workmanship warranty. The equipment warranty covers the physical parts, like your panels and inverters. The performance warranty guarantees your panels will produce a certain amount of energy over time. Finally, the workmanship warranty covers the installation itself against issues like leaks or loose connections. A strong warranty package will offer 25 years of coverage across the board. Remember, a warranty is only as good as the company behind it, so choosing an installer with a long track record ensures they’ll be around to honor their promises for your solar solutions.

The Importance of a Full-Service Installer

Choosing a full-service installer simplifies your entire solar journey. Instead of you having to coordinate between different companies for design, permits, installation, and roofing, a full-service provider handles everything from start to finish. They manage the initial consultation and system design, secure all necessary permits, complete the installation, and provide ongoing support after your system is up and running. This integrated approach ensures every component of your project works together perfectly. For example, if your roof needs repairs before panels can be installed, a company that specializes in both roofing and solar can manage the entire job seamlessly, saving you time and preventing potential headaches.

My Solar Roofing Experience: The Full Story

The Solar Roofing System We Chose

We got 20 x REC400 installed to have our solar power needs properly met. Also, got Enphase IQ7A and Enphase AC Combiner together with envoy so we can view the production of our solar panel system with our phones and computers.

Why I Decided to Go Solar

The main reason I went solar has been the need for lowering electricity costs. Also, in that way I increase the value of my house, which reaffirms how wise my investment is.

What I'd Tell a Friend About Solar

All those who are thinking of saving on their electric bills and going solar, you better do it the sooner you can, as the 26% tax credit is valid for systems installed until the end of 2022.

Making the Most of Your Energy with NEM3

With California's new net metering policy, NEM3, the best way to maximize your savings is to use the solar energy your panels produce in real-time. This strategy, called "self-consumption," is simpler than it sounds. It just means shifting your high-energy tasks to the middle of the day when the sun is shining brightest. Think about running your dishwasher, doing laundry, or charging your electric vehicle before 4 p.m. By aligning your energy use with your solar production, you pull less from the grid and get the most value from your solar solution. It’s a small change in habits that can make a big difference on your electricity bill.

For even greater control and savings, adding a battery backup is a total game-changer under NEM3. A battery lets you store the extra solar energy you generate during the day instead of sending it back to the grid for low credit. Then, during the evening peak hours from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. when electricity rates skyrocket, you can power your home with your own stored, virtually free energy. This not only shields you from the highest utility costs but also provides peace of mind during blackouts. It’s the key to achieving true energy independence and making your solar investment work smarter for you.

My Experience with the Installer

Installers and the whole AMECO team did a great job. They were quick, neat, and I felt how much they care for my stress-free experience.

‍

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the single biggest way to reduce the cost of my solar system? The most significant financial tool available is the Residential Clean Energy Credit, which is a federal tax credit. It allows you to subtract 30% of your total project cost directly from the federal taxes you owe. This isn't just a small deduction; it's a dollar-for-dollar credit that applies to the entire system, including the panels, battery, and even the cost of labor for the installation.

Why is everyone talking about adding a battery to their solar system in California? A battery is a game-changer for two main reasons: energy security and financial savings. With California's grid facing stability issues and power shutoffs, a battery gives you a reliable backup to keep your home running during an outage. It also helps you get the most value from your system under the state's net metering rules by letting you store your solar energy and use it during expensive evening peak hours, instead of pulling costly power from the utility company.

Is it better to own my solar panels or lease them? Owning your solar system is almost always the smarter financial move in the long run. The most important reason is that you can only claim the 30% federal tax credit if you are the owner of the system. Additionally, owned solar panels are an asset that increases the value of your home, whereas a leased system can sometimes create complications if you decide to sell your house later.

How do I figure out the right size for my solar system without overpaying? A great guideline to start with is the "20% rule," which suggests designing a system that covers about 80% of your annual electricity needs. This 20% buffer accounts for things like cloudy days or panel maintenance, ensuring you have a realistic and efficient setup. A professional consultation will help fine-tune this based on your specific energy habits and future plans, like getting an electric car, so you get a system that’s just right for you.

Do I need to find separate contractors for my roof and my solar panels? You don't have to, and it's often better if you don't. Choosing a full-service installer who is an expert in both roofing and solar simplifies the entire process. They can assess your roof's condition and make any necessary repairs before installing the panels, ensuring the foundation of your 25-year investment is solid. This integrated approach prevents future leaks or damage and saves you the headache of coordinating between two different companies.

Key Takeaways

• Use tax credits and rebates to significantly cut costs: The initial price tag isn't your final cost. You can reduce the total expense by claiming the 30% federal tax credit and taking advantage of California-specific programs, like the property tax exclusion and SGIP rebates for batteries.
• Design a system that works for your lifestyle: Aim to cover about 80% of your electricity needs to ensure an efficient system without overbuilding. In California, adding a battery is key to storing your solar power for use during expensive evening hours and keeping your home powered through blackouts.
• Choose an experienced installer for long-term peace of mind: A successful solar project depends on the quality of the installation. Always verify a contractor's state license, compare multiple quotes, and consider a full-service company with both roofing and solar expertise to ensure your entire system is built to last.

Related Articles

• Solar Panel Installation Cost Calculator: A 2026 Guide
• How Much Do Solar Panels Cost for a House? A Full Guide
• Professional Solar Installation: A Complete Guide
• Blog | Solar Panel News | Solar Panel Company | AMECO Solar

How to Save on Your Electricity Bill NOW

This August was a very warm month for California. Did you know that it was the hottest August Earth has ever recorded? These hot months unfortunately contribute to much higher electricity bills. Luckily, having gone solar, hot days don’t have as drastic an effect. With the hottest days on record however, everyone’s electricity bills went up. Unfortunately, utilities limited the size of your solar system to your previous annual use. When you use more, the utility will charge you accordingly.

Southern California Edison redesigned rates to eliminate the top tier. Edison announced this summer that rates were increasing 8% for homes. That’s the average increase however, and the energy conscious are getting a worse deal. Customers who stay within the tier one and two will see those rates increase 12% and 17%, respectively.

We’ve come up with a few ways to help use your air conditioner (AC) less and keep your wallet happy, even if you don’t have solar, yet.

1) Turn It Off

Efficiency is usually lost to heat. If you put your hand next to an incandescent light bulb and an LED light bulb, there’s a big temperature difference. More efficient appliances expel less heat, but it’s better if you can turn it off!  If you’re not using your printer or DVD player, you’re generating unnecessary heat in your home.

2) Natural Ventilation

Simple enough. Open your windows at night to cool down your house and close them during the day. You can help by closing your blinds during the day as well.

3) Plant an Indoor Garden

This one is counter-intuitive to the drought problem we’re facing. Plants can actually cool the air through evapotranspiration. This means that as air flows over their leaves, the small amounts of water evaporate and cool the air. Placing large leafy plants in areas with air flow or near windows can help cool the air flowing through the house. It can also purify the air naturally! Check out English Ivy and other options on NASA’s air purifying plants list.

4) The MacGyver Hack

You’re going to need incense, matches, and some caulk. Even with your windows and doors shut, your house isn’t air tight. There are tiny holes in your windows, doors, and frames that are letting your conditioned air out! Light a piece of incense and run it along your windows and doors.  When the smoke wavers, you have a hole. Use the caulk to plug up that hole.  This is best done on windy days or there’s a large temperature difference inside/outside.

5) Improve Your Windows with Blinds and Tinting

Those dastardly windows are letting all that warm sunshine in! However, there are many fixes. The easiest option is to install blinds. Tinting your windows can block a significant portion of heat coming through. Upgrading your windows to low-emissivity (low-e) will block the heat without blocking nearly as much light. A better insulation rating for your window will also improve performance.

6) Insulation

Insulating your house helps it maintain a constant temperature. This stops extra heating in the summer and extra cooling in the winter. Attic insulation can be easily installed and have a dramatic effect.

7) More Efficient Air Conditioner

There are actually lots of options out there including evaporative cooling AC units as well as single room units. Be sure to get the one that best fits your needs. You may be eligible for some utility rebates!

8) Pool Hack

This concept is technically called “Evaporative Cooling”.  There are also some highly efficient evaporative cooling air conditioners that can lower your bill, but that isn’t as fun as justifying a pool! If you have a pool in your backyard, the temperature around the pool is a little lower. Create a draft from your pool by opening windows and turning on fans. The air that passing over the water is cooled before it enters your house. If you open an upstairs window, you can create a stacked ventilation effect that pushes hot air out as it drags in the cooler air from your pool. This doesn’t work in every situation, but it’s fun to try.

9) Install this on your Roof

You thought we were going to say solar, right? We’ll get to that, but an attic fan is a great way to vent excess heat from your house.  A whole house fan is another option, but is a little more complicated than an attic fan, which can also be solar powered.

10) Only Cool What You Use

When you’re at home, you’re not using every room in my house. Why cool the guest room if you are napping on the couch? The easiest option is to just close vents to specific rooms. Another option could be a single room air conditioner or a smart thermostat.

11) Replace your “Dumb” Thermostat

Criminals are aware of this, but did you know a lot of houses are empty during the day? Luckily, we have security systems, web cams, and cute dogs to protect us.  Similar to only cooling what you use, make sure you aren’t cooling unnecessarily. A programmable or smart thermostat, like a Nest, can make sure you only cool when you’re home and it changes the temperature for cooling at night.  Nests even help the compressor on your air conditioner work more efficiently.

12) SOLAR

Obviously we were going to put this in…but please hear us out. When you install solar, it turns your meter backwards. The best part is that it reduces the most expensive electricity first in a tiered rate plan. This means that the solar being produced isn’t worth the average $.12/kWh, but it’s worth $.30/kWh. Solar protects you from paying the highest tier’s prices. On commercial buildings, it was found that having solar helped reduce their cooling costs by shading the building. In other words, they didn’t have to cool as much, and they wound up saving 5% of the system’s initial cost. Thanks UCSD for studying this!

We understand efficiency upgrades can be expensive. Never forget, there is financing out there to help you. Want to find out if you qualify for a free solar estimate?

FYI: If you have an existing solar system that isn’t producing enough, you can add panels to your system.  In SCE territory, you can add 10% or 1 kW of capacity without changing your net metering contract.  If you add the capacity before NEM 1.0 is over (July 2017) then you can add as much capacity as needed.

Do you have a way to be more energy efficient? We’d love to hear them! Share your ideas and suggestions with us on Twitter or Facebook.

Solar System Type: Solar Electric (PV)

Solar System Details:  5.3 kW installed in 2008 & 2.1 kW installed in 2013

Previous Christmas Bill:

Present: “Having

Richard originally went solar with Ameco in 2008.  He was looking to reduce his bills to SCE after seeing a $600 bill during Christmas time.  With his family using more electricity, Richard upgraded his system in 2013 to keep his electric bill virtually nonexistent.

“We started looking around, we went to a few other companies and it just seemed like they were trying to get on the bandwagon to do solar.

So, when we found Pat with AMECO, he had been in the business for years and had a lot of experience. I also found out that he was connected with the lobbyists and he was doing a bunch of the negotiations for solar…and that impressed me.”

– Richard Bowman, Long Beach, CA

Read more of our customer testimonials and request a quote now!

‍

Trumpets are blaring and drums are rolling because AMECO Solar has a new website!

Our new, fresh design was planned with a straight-forward layout that is much easier to navigate. Just one look at our new homepage and you can easily tell that AMECO Solar is a full-service solar installation company. We have options for anyone interested in solar panels from residential solar electric and solar pool installations to medium-sized commercial systems and large-scale solar installations.

You may click through our pages to learn more about solar energy by checking out step-by-step explanations of how it works or reading our pages on residential solar installation and commercial solar installation.

Of course, you may already know that our company blog is a great resource about solar installation.  Plus, we would also like to highlight our new Solar Installation Photo Gallery. It features photos of our recent solar installs, and new photos are being added all the time.

Give the new AMECO Solar website a spin…we hope you’ll like it!