Frequently Asked Questions

We get these questions all the time. Here’s what California homeowners really want to know.

General Solar Questions

  • Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic (PV) cells. This electricity powers your home’s appliances and lighting. Excess energy can be stored in a battery system or fed back into the grid, depending on your setup.

  • Yes. By generating your own electricity, you rely less on the utility grid, leading to lower monthly bills. Savings vary based on system size, energy usage, and local electricity rates.

    Want to understand why your bill is still high? Power Grab: Why Your Electricity Bill Keeps Going Up

  • Without a battery backup, most grid-tied solar systems shut down during outages for safety reasons. However, with a battery system, you can maintain power to essential appliances during blackouts.

    Learn More: Blackouts in California: What You Need to Know (and How to Be Ready)
    Want to compare backup options? Do I Still Need a Generator If I Have Solar?

Financial & Incentives

  • Costs vary based on system size, equipment, and installation specifics. On average, residential systems range from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Financing options can offset upfront costs.

  • We provide several financing solutions, including:

    • Loans: Own your system with monthly payments.

    • Leases: Pay a fixed monthly fee to use the system.

    • Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs): Pay only for the electricity you use at a set rate.

    Learn more: Solar Financing in 2025: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

  • Yes. California offers valuable incentives to make solar more affordable. Homeowners can claim a 30% Federal Tax Credit through 2032 and, for eligible low-income households, the DAC-SASH program offers up to $3 per watt in rebates. The Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) provides rebates for battery storage, and the state’s property tax exclusion ensures solar won’t increase property taxes. Flexible financing is available through PACE programs in some areas.

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  • The True-Up Bill is an annual statement from your utility company that reconciles the energy you’ve used from the grid with the energy your solar system has produced and exported throughout the year. This final calculation determines whether you owe additional charges or have earned credits. To better manage and potentially reduce your True-Up Bill, we offer a dedicated service called the True-Up Tune-Up, where our team reviews your energy usage, solar production, and system settings to help you stay ahead of surprises.

    To manage it yourself:

    • Monitor Your Usage: Regularly track your household energy consumption and solar production to stay informed and make adjustments as needed.

    • Optimize Your System Size: Ensure your solar system is properly sized to meet your household’s energy needs, especially if your consumption habits have changed over time.

    • Consider Adding Battery Storage: Installing a battery system allows you to store excess solar energy for use during peak rate periods or in the evening, reducing reliance on expensive grid power.

    Learn more: Taming the True-Up: How to Keep Your Annual Solar Bill in Check

System & Installation

  • From contract signing to activation, the process typically spans 4 to 8 weeks, including permitting and inspections. Actual panel installation usually takes 1 to 3 days.

    Why timelines vary: Why Solar Supply Chains Are Shaky Right Now

  • If your roof is nearing the end of its lifespan (typically 20-25 years), it’s advisable to replace it before installation. This ensures the longevity of both the roof and the solar system.

  • We proudly serve homeowners across Central California. Contact us to confirm service availability in your specific location.

Maintenance & Performance

  • Solar panels are low-maintenance. Occasional cleaning and annual inspections help maintain efficiency. Viva Energy offers maintenance services to keep your system running optimally.

  • Most panels have a lifespan of 25 to 30 years, with many continuing to produce electricity beyond that, albeit at reduced efficiency.

  • We provide monitoring tools that allow you to track energy production and system health in real-time via a mobile app or web portal.

Battery Backup & Energy Independence

  • A battery backup stores excess solar energy for use during power outages or peak demand times. While not essential, it enhances energy independence and can provide savings during high-rate periods.

    Compare options: Do I Still Need a Generator If I Have Solar?

  • Yes. We offer Tesla Powerwalls and other leading battery solutions to complement your solar system.

Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0)

  • NEM 3.0 adjusts the compensation rates for excess energy sent back to the grid. While rates are lower than previous versions, strategic system design and battery storage can help maximize savings.

    What’s behind NEM? Why Do Energy Companies Dictate Who Can Have Solar?

  • Absolutely. Despite changes, solar remains a valuable investment. With rising utility rates and available incentives, going solar now can lock in long-term savings.

    Still worth it? Power Grab: Why Your Electricity Bill Keeps Going Up

About Viva Energy

  • Viva Energy stands out for our:

    • Expertise: Years of experience in solar installations.

    • Quality: Top-tier equipment and workmanship.

    • Customer Service: Dedicated support throughout your solar journey.

  • Yes. We provide comprehensive warranties covering equipment, installation, and performance to ensure peace of mind.

Feel free to reach out if you need further information or assistance with your solar journey!