The summer of 2020 came with some serious challenges – including many power outages. While the reason behind the rolling blackouts still is not 100% clear, many conclude that utility companies and the California Independent System Operator simply weren’t adequate and did a poor job trying to manage the situation.
Others criticize the Golden State’s ambitious 100% clean energy goal and blame an over-reliance on natural energy sources for the blackouts. However, despite the less-than-ideal power situation of the summer, the outlook for California and its clean energy goal is still promising.
There are two areas that California can focus on to keep its lights on – and still meet its clean energy goal:
1. Go all-in on Solar Panels for Homes
This step has already been underway for quite some time. In fact, last year, California reached one million small solar installations, which for the most part consists of residential solar panels. With almost 80% sunshine year-round in the Golden State, solar is an efficient alternative to the grid. That, combined with the fact that buying solar panels have become easier and more affordable than ever creates a solid foundation for California to continue its growth in renewable energy. There are hundreds of solar panel companies and installers in California, and the state offers attractive incentives for anyone who may be asking “are solar panels worth it?”.
Although the number of solar panel companies available to homeowners is vast, the quality of the offerings is key to a well-functioning, sustainable solar solution.
“Some solar companies offer solar panels at a very low price, which can seem appealing to someone who’s about to make a solar panel investment. However, we strongly urge homeowners to do their research before purchasing to avoid ending up with a system of poor quality or from a smaller, less experienced company that may go bankrupt any day”, said Rainier de Ocampo, VP of marketing at Solar Optimum. He continues: “A solar system is supposed to last you many years. That’s why we only offer tier-one brands such as Panasonic and REC. This, combined with our extensive 25-year warranty program gives the homeowner peace of mind knowing that they can count on their solar systems for years to come”.
2. Solar Battery Storage
Solar is great in itself, but for California to be able to avoid rolling blackouts in the future, battery storage is just as important. Because California gets so much sunshine every year, the state’s solar panels often generate more energy than what is being used. What better way to keep the lights on 24/7 than by storing that excess power in a home battery?
Home battery storage such as the Tesla Powerwall battery holds on to the excess energy produced by solar panels and saves it for when you need it the most – for example during a blackout. Not only is energy storage the perfect way to ensure you always have access to power when you need it, it can also save you even more money because you can choose to use some of your stored energy when electricity rates are at their highest.
If you’re a homeowner interested in solar and/or home battery storage, contact an Energy Consultant at Solar Optimum today for more information. Call 818-745-1494 or click here to request a quote.
