If Solar’s So Smart, Why Don’t More People Have It?

Solar BasicsHome ValueCentral CoastCentral ValleyFor HomeownersObjections & Misconceptions
Written By Katrina Kramer
Aerial view of a California neighborhood in full sun, mostly without solar panels.

All this sun. All these roofs. Why aren’t more of them using solar?

A Familiar Conversation in Paso Robles

Last month, we met a couple in Paso Robles. Retired, south-facing roof, electric bills creeping over $400 a month. They had the credit. They had the roof space. They’d even done a solar consultation once. But they still hadn’t gone solar.

When we asked why, they shrugged:

“I don’t know… it just feels complicated. And we’re not sure it would really save us money anymore.”

They’re not alone. Every week, we meet California homeowners who could go solar—but haven’t. And most of them have good reasons. Or at least reasons that feel good.

So let’s talk about them.

Common Reasons People Still Avoid Solar
(And What You Should Know)

1. “We’re planning to move soon.”

Totally valid. If you’re planning to sell in the next year, you might not want to take on a solar loan.

But here’s the flip side:

  • Studies from Zillow and Berkeley Lab show solar can increase home value by $10K–$15K in California.

  • Buyers increasingly expect it, especially in PG&E territory.

  • A well-documented, owned solar system can help your home sell faster and for more.

You don’t need to live in the house for 20 years to benefit from solar—you just need to structure it right.

2. “It just seems too complicated.”

We hear this a lot. Permits, panels, batteries, financing, tax credits… it’s a lot.

That’s why we designed our process to be turnkey:

  • We handle the permits, utility paperwork, inspections, and PTO

  • We’ll walk you through your options in plain English—no acronyms unless you want them

  • You’ll always know who to call if something comes up

Solar doesn’t have to be complicated. You just need a company that doesn’t make it complicated.

3. “We heard it’s not worth it anymore under NEM 3.0.”

Yes, net metering changed in California. But no, that doesn’t mean solar stopped making sense.

What changed:

  • Utilities give you less credit for excess energy you send back to the grid

What hasn’t changed:

  • You still get major value from avoiding peak utility rates

  • Solar + battery storage can help you shift energy usage and stay in control

  • A well-designed system (like the ones we install) is tailored to maximize self-consumption, not just export

Bottom line: Solar is still worth it—it just needs smarter planning.

4. “We don’t want another monthly payment.”

This one hits close to home. Nobody wants another bill.

But solar isn’t just a bill—it’s a swap. You’re replacing your utility payment with an investment in your home.

And depending on how you finance:

  • You might start with $0 down

  • Your monthly solar loan could be less than your PG&E bill

  • Once it’s paid off, you’re just generating free power from your roof

Want to skip financing altogether? We’ve got cash pricing too.

5. “We’re not sure who to trust.”

Fair. The solar industry has seen a flood of companies—some great, some… not.

Look for:

  • Licensed, local installers

  • Long-term workmanship warranties

  • Clear communication (if they ghost you during a quote, imagine during install)

  • No pressure sales

Viva Energy has been serving the Central Coast and Central Valley for years. We don’t outsource installs. We don’t disappear after PTO. And we don’t do gimmicks.

Still Unsure?

It’s okay. Solar’s a big decision. But the reasons people hesitate are often based on myths, outdated info, or bad experiences—not math or facts.

Let us walk you through it.

References

This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and reviewed by the Viva Energy team for accuracy and clarity.
Katrina Kramer
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