Why Your PG&E Bill Isn’t $0 After Going Solar (And Why That’s Normal)
Just went solar but still seeing charges on your PG&E bill? You’re not alone — and no, your system isn’t broken. Here’s what that bill actually means, how solar credits work, and what to expect moving forward.
Why Solar Supply Chains Are Shaky Right Now — And How Viva Energy Keeps Your Project Moving
The solar supply chain is under pressure—shortages, tariffs, policy shifts. That’s why Viva Energy’s Geoff Kramer and Henry Macias are on the ground at RE+ in Las Vegas, locking in suppliers to keep Central Valley and Central Coast projects moving without delays.
Solar Financing in 2025: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
Solar + battery financing doesn’t have to be complicated. With $0 down options, credit transfer for the federal tax credit, and honest guidance from Viva Energy, homeowners can take control of rising power bills today. Here’s what you need to know before the 2025 deadline.
Why Do Energy Companies Dictate Who Can Have Solar?
Why do utility companies get to decide whether you can put solar panels on your own roof? In California, utilities hold the keys to interconnection and grid access—meaning they can slow, block, or complicate your solar project. Here’s how it works, and what it means for homeowners looking for energy independence.
Power Grab: Why Your Electricity Bill Keeps Going Up
California utility rates are climbing fast — and recent federal policy shifts are making it worse. From canceled solar grants to pro-fossil legislation, homeowners are feeling the squeeze. Here’s what’s behind the spike — and how solar still gives you control, savings, and peace of mind.
California Supreme Court Rules: Solar Credits Get a Second Chance
California’s Supreme Court has hit “pause” on the NEM 3.0 net-metering cuts, sending the case back to the appeals court for a stricter legal review. Solar homeowners may soon see higher returns for energy sold back to the grid—here’s what’s changing and what to watch next.
Do I Still Need a Generator If I Have Solar?
Solar alone won’t power your home in a blackout. With a battery, you can ride through many outages—but not all. Generators offer long-duration backup at the cost of fuel, noise, and maintenance. Here’s a clear, California-specific comparison so you can choose the right setup for PG&E shutoffs and fire-season events.
Is Solar My Best Option to Lower My Electricity Bill?
Still on the fence about solar? You’re not alone. In this post, we break down who benefits most from going solar in California, what to know about energy usage under NEM 3.0, and how to tell if battery storage is worth the extra cost. No hype—just honest answers.
Federal Solar Tax Credit Ends December 31, 2025 — What Californians Need to Know
The 30% federal solar tax credit ends for homeowners on December 31, 2025 — seven years earlier than expected. Californians need to act fast: installs must be complete by the deadline, leases remain eligible through 2027, and standalone batteries qualify through 2032. Here’s what the new law means for you.
If Solar’s So Smart, Why Don’t More People Have It?
If solar is such a smart investment, why do so many homeowners still say no? This blog breaks down the most common reasons people hesitate—cost, complexity, NEM 3.0—and what California homeowners need to know before ruling it out.
Should I Pay Off My Solar System Early? Here’s What to Consider
Paying off a solar loan early isn’t always the slam dunk people think. In California, the right choice depends on your interest rate, loan term, prepayment rules, and how quickly you need cash flow. We break down when early payoff helps, when it doesn’t, and the smarter ways to lower your true-up bill.
How Much Value Does Solar Add to My Home?
Does solar really raise your home’s value? On the Central Coast and in the Central Valley, the answer is often yes. Learn what studies show, how local markets are responding, and how to maximize your system’s impact on resale and buyer interest.
How to Choose the Right Solar System for Your California Home
Learn how roof type, system size, and panel placement impact solar installation costs in California. Discover how a licensed engineer designs each system for optimal fit, aesthetics, and long-term performance—so you get clarity, not confusion.
Blackouts in California: What You Need to Know (and How to Be Ready)
Planned shutoffs, heatwaves, and wildfire threats are making blackouts a regular part of life in California. This blog breaks down why outages happen, when they’re most likely, and how solar + battery backup can keep your home running during PSPS events, rolling blackouts, and sudden grid failures. Don’t wait for the lights to go out—be ready.
School’s Out—and Everything’s On: What Summer Break Does to Your Energy Bill
Summer break is in full swing, and that means more lights on, more devices plugged in, and your AC running overtime. With the kids home all day, your energy use is probably spiking—and so is your utility bill. The good news? Summer is also peak solar season. In this post, we break down why energy use jumps during the summer months, how solar helps soften the blow, and how you can take advantage of a limited-time offer to save even more.
Countdown to RE+ 2025: How This Convention Shapes Our Work in Solar
This September, Viva Energy is heading to RE+ 2025—the nation’s largest clean energy convention. Held in Las Vegas, the event brings together thousands of solar professionals, innovators, and policymakers shaping the future of renewables. We’re going to connect, learn, and bring back the latest in solar technology and policy insights to better serve California homeowners.
Federal Solar Tax Credit May End in 2025: What California Homeowners Need to Know
A new proposal in Congress threatens to end the 30% federal solar tax credit by the end of 2025, years ahead of schedule. This change could raise costs for homeowners, stall clean energy growth, and eliminate hundreds of thousands of jobs. Here’s what California residents need to know—and why acting now matters.
Planning Ahead: How to Maximize Solar Incentives and Long-Term Savings
Now is the perfect time to plan your transition to solar energy and take advantage of valuable tax incentives. Learn how to maximize savings, avoid future policy changes, and secure long-term financial benefits with expert guidance from Viva Energy.
Taming the True-Up: How to Keep Your Annual Solar Bill in Check
The True-Up Bill doesn’t have to be a shock. With the right solar setup and a mid-year check-in, you can avoid surprise charges and take control of your energy costs. Learn how Viva Energy’s True-Up Tune-Up™ helps California homeowners stay ahead of the curve.