If your solar panels look dusty, it does not automatically mean they need to be cleaned. In most of California, light dirt and pollen cause minimal energy loss and usually wash off on their own. Here’s when cleaning makes sense, when it doesn’t, and how to avoid wasting money or risking damage.

PG&E’s Virtual Power Plant program lets utilities tap into home batteries during grid emergencies. You can get paid, but the payouts are modest and the tradeoff is control. Here’s what homeowners should actually understand before enrolling.

Lower solar production in winter is normal and expected. Shorter days, lower sun angles, and weather all reduce output this time of year. Here’s why it happens, what a typical seasonal drop looks like in California, and how to tell the difference between normal winter behavior and a real system issue.

Going solar shouldn’t come with surprise costs or “wait, what?” moments. Here’s what your installer should explain clearly before you sign anything—from roof work and warranties to batteries, billing, and long-term expectations.

Homeowners often ask whether solar can be installed without drilling into the roof. The truth: not in California. Modern flashed mounts are engineered to protect your roof long-term, and a properly installed system will not cause leaks. Here’s what’s real, what’s hype, and how mounting actually works.

Most California homeowners expect solar to lower their electricity usage. They don’t expect solar to shrink the expensive peak-rate charges, usage-based fees, and winter bill spikes buried in their PG&E statement. Here’s a friendly, fact-based look at the hidden savings that make solar even more valuable in California.

The 30% federal solar tax credit ended December 31, 2025 — and many homeowners missed it due to factors outside their control. But through a pre-paid PPA, you can still save up to 23% on a solar system through 2027, with no monthly payments and full ownership after six years.

Solar companies love to talk about “scaling,” but what happens when scaling means outsourcing every part of the process — including customer service? Here’s why call-center solar leaves homeowners frustrated, and why local, in-house support still matters.

If you’re over 60 and wondering whether solar still makes sense, you’re not alone. Many older homeowners — especially Boomers — are asking the same question. The answer? It depends on more than just age. Here’s how to think about solar in retirement.

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.