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1. Is your property energy efficient?

Before you install a renewable energy source for your property, it is encouraged you do everything you can to improve your current energy efficiency. A few simple measures can save you money by reducing your overall energy or water consumption. You may be able to save thousands of dollars in up-front costs by reducing the size of the system you will need to install for your property. Understanding your energy usage also will also help to prepare you for an informed discussion with your contractor. As a result, it is recommended that property owners complete an energy efficiency audit prior to purchasing a solar system.

2. How to size the system?

In order to determine the potential cost, it is good to get an initial sense of how large a system your property will require. The Solar Calculator provides a quick estimate of the cost and size of the system you will need to power your property.

3. How to finance the solar installation?

Solar customers have multiple options when financing their solar energy systems, including several options with no upfront payments. Popular forms of solar financing include:

• Loans (Home Equity, PACE, and/or direct loans from Solar companies)
• Power Purchase Agreements
• Solar Leases

Learn more about these options.

4. How to Choose a Contractor?

Choosing the best renewable energy system for your home begins by finding a qualified contractor. Your contractor will help select the system and sizing that meets your home's energy needs, as well as arrange the permitting, installation, and site inspections necessary to connect your system to PG&E. If you qualify for rebates or incentives, your contractor also will also help to fill out the required application forms. This database can help you identify active solar contractors in your area including their recently completed project statistics.

For more information, download this helpful Guide to Going Solar published jointly by PG&E and the State Go Solar California Initiative.