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Guide to Going Solar
Setting your home up with solar technology can reduce your energy bill and your carbon footprint. We have the information and resources to help you get started.
Setting your home up with solar technology can reduce your energy bill and your carbon footprint. We have the information and resources to help you get started. Be sure to read the California Solar Consumer Protection Guide for details about our income-qualified solar incentive programs and Program Administrator contact information.
Step 1: Efficiency First
You can save money in upfront costs by taking simple efficiency measures—like swapping old incandescent lighting for CFL or LED bulbs—to reduce your overall use.
Who: You
How: Consult our Home Energy Guide to find energy saving solutions, ranging from small changes to long-term investments that can significantly impact your energy use.
Step 2: Choose a Contractor
A qualified, licensed solar contractor will provide you with a free home evaluation and comprehensive quote. Obtain and compare multiple bids before beginning.
Who: You
How: If you can, get referrals from friends and neighbors. Search for eligible solar contractors using the California Solar Initiative (CSI) database.
Another great resource can be found in the solar section of SCE’s Marketplace; an easy-to-use, one-stop shopping service; offering customers a reliable resource to search solar vendors, compare prices of rooftop solar systems, finance options, and receive the benefit of having multiple vendors bid for their business.
SCE does not endorse, recommend, or partner with any solar contractor. If you receive a solicitation claiming the contractor is affiliated with us, please report it to us on Scam Alert for more information and reporting options.
Step 3: Installation
Your PV system will need to utilize a smart inverter to be approved for interconnection. In addition, your local jurisdiction (city or county) will perform an onsite inspection and provide the required permit. Often times, your contractor will manage these activities and complete the installation. The installation itself may take as few as three days.
Who: Your contractor
How: Your system should be sized to your home and to your typical energy load. Permits are issued by your city or county, and we may need to inspect your finished system.
Step 4: Net Energy Metering
Be sure to sign up! A net energy meter measures any excess solar energy you generate and put back into the grid and credits your bill. Learn how net energy metering works and how to read your NEM bill.
Who: Your contractor
How: Once your application is approved, your meter will be updated and you are immediately signed up for the rate plan.
Knowledge Is Power
Get answers about cost, maintenance and operation of solar technology before you install.
Earn Energy Credits
If you generate any of your home’s energy through solar power, be sure to sign up for Net Energy Metering to receive your bill credit.
Helpful Resources
Green Rate Option
If you would like to support renewable power but are unable to install solar panels on your roof, we have an alternative solution for you. By participating in the Green Rate, you help support clean energy for a brighter future in Southern California. Learn more here.
Income Qualified and Want Solar? SCE Can Help
Homeowners may qualify for a free home solar system from our partner, GRID Alternatives. Find out if the Single-family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) program, a state of California program for low or fixed income families, can help you. Learn more
Do You Rent and Still Want Solar?
If your building owner participates in the Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH) program, you as a tenant will see a credit from the solar production on your electricity bills Learn more at tenant education materials section.
Net Energy Metering For Home
See how Net Energy Metering works throughout the day.
How Net Energy Metering Works
Learn about the relationship between solar production and your energy consumption throughout the day.
In the Morning
Solar energy rises with the sun. As solar production increases, you would purchase less energy from us.
Mid-Day
With solar production at its peak, you create more energy than needed, earning you credits for the surplus.
Early in the Evening
Solar energy goes down with the sun, and you would begin to purchase energy from us.
At Night
With solar energy stopped, you would tap into the credit earned during the day to power your property.
