Many Americans are unsure what to expect from the country’s political climate in the coming years, and worries over policy changes are widespread.

One big question that looms on the horizon in Santa Cruz, the Central Coast, and across the country is how changes to state and federal rules and regulations could affect alternative energy, specifically the solar industry.

If you’re wondering, “Should I install solar panels in 2024?” we’re here to help answer your questions.

Most people who live, work, and pay utility bills in California know that PG&E has been raising its rates steadily for years.

Unfortunately, the utility giant shows no signs of slowing down soon.

In fact, PG&E rates have increased nearly 50% in the last five years and a whopping 20% in the last 1-2 years. Recently, the utility introduced a campaign to establish “monthly base charges” of $24/month for all customers (solar and non-solar).

While the utility is trying to position this as a great deal for California customers, it could actually raise energy rates for many households.

Here’s what you need to know.

When you install a solar array on your home, you expect to have a good experience working with a solar panel company. You also hope that the “experts” will be reliable and professional.

Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

The solar industry has changed, and today’s consumers must know how to identify which solar panel companies to avoid.

In this blog, we share our top tips for identifying subpar solar companies and protecting yourself and your home.

Are you thinking about switching to solar? The benefits of powering a home with renewable energy add up quickly.

Since 2004, our teams at Sandbar Solar & Electric have installed residential solar systems all across Monterey County, including Carmel, Salinas and Monterey.

We’ve put together this guide that covers the process from choosing the right solar provider and evaluating your options to activating your home’s solar energy system.

Historically, California has been one of the best states in the country for solar power generation, but the landscape has changed.

In light of recent laws, regulations, and policy changes, you may be wondering if installing solar is still a good idea or if it will ever pay off for your home and property.

In this blog, we’ll explore the ins and outs of going solar in California in 2024 and provide all the information you need to decide if solar is right for you.

Solar panels are efficient, inexpensive, and accessible, but many people wonder how they work and how they provide renewable energy reliably and safely.

Here at Sandbar Solar, we’ve been helping customers throughout the Central Coast and the Greater Bay Area design and install solar arrays since 2004. We have hands-on experience with just about every kind of solar panel in existence.

In this guide, we’ll discuss how solar panels work, what they’re made of, and how they’re manufactured.