Solar Education Center

Pell Solar Blog

Expert guides, tips, and news to help California and Idaho homeowners make smart solar decisions.

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California Solar

NEM 3.0 Explained: What California Homeowners Need to Know

California's new net metering rules changed the solar math. Here's what NEM 3.0 means for your savings, why battery storage is now essential, and how to maximize your return under the new rules.

February 28, 2024 8 min read
Battery Storage

Tesla Powerwall vs. Other Home Batteries: Which Is Best?

The Tesla Powerwall 3 is the most popular home battery — but is it the best choice for your home? We compare it to the Franklin iBX2, Enphase IQ Battery, and LG RESU to help you decide.

February 10, 2024 7 min read
Pricing

How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in California? (2024 Guide)

Solar prices have dropped dramatically. Here's what a typical California homeowner pays for a solar system in 2024, what affects the cost, and how to evaluate quotes from different installers.

January 22, 2024 9 min read
Incentives

The 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit: Complete 2024 Guide

The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) lets you deduct 30% of your solar system cost from your federal taxes. Here's exactly how it works, who qualifies, and how to claim it.

January 8, 2024 7 min read
Equipment

Best Solar Panels for California Homes in 2024

Not all solar panels are created equal. We break down the top panel brands — REC, Panasonic, Q Cells, Canadian Solar, and Silfab — and explain which performs best in California's climate.

December 18, 2023 8 min read
Financing

Solar Lease vs. Buy: Which Option Is Right for You?

Should you lease your solar system or buy it outright? The answer depends on your goals, credit, and how long you plan to stay in your home. Here's a clear comparison to help you decide.

December 5, 2023 6 min read
California Solar

How to Read Your SCE Electric Bill (And Why It Matters for Solar)

Your Southern California Edison bill contains everything you need to know about whether solar makes sense for your home. Here's how to decode it — and what to look for before getting a solar quote.

November 20, 2023 5 min read
EV Charging

Home EV Charger Installation: Everything You Need to Know

Thinking about installing a Level 2 EV charger at home? Here's what the installation involves, how much it costs, and why pairing it with solar is the smartest move you can make.

November 5, 2023 6 min read
Maintenance

Solar Panel Maintenance: What You Actually Need to Do

Solar panels are low-maintenance — but not no-maintenance. Here's what you should do annually, what to watch for, and when to call a professional to keep your system producing at peak performance.

October 22, 2023 5 min read
Local Guides

Going Solar in the Inland Empire: A Local Guide

The Inland Empire is one of the best places in the country for solar. High sun hours, rising SCE rates, and strong incentives make the math compelling. Here's what Inland Empire homeowners need to know.

October 8, 2023 7 min read
Battery Storage

Virtual Power Plant (VPP): What It Is and How You Get Paid

SCE's Virtual Power Plant program pays Tesla Powerwall owners to share stored energy during peak demand. Here's how it works, how much you can earn, and how to enroll.

September 25, 2023 6 min read
Maintenance

Solar Panel Problems: 7 Common Issues and How to Fix Them

Is your solar system underperforming? These are the seven most common problems we see — from inverter failures to critter damage — and what you can do about each one.

September 10, 2023 7 min read
Solar Basics

Why You Should Choose a Local Solar Company Over a National Chain

National solar companies have big marketing budgets — but local installers often deliver better results. Here's why choosing a local, family-owned solar company protects your investment.

August 28, 2023 5 min read

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