Solar Investment: Cost, Incentives & Savings
Smart Solar Investments with Allterra Solar
Cut energy bills, increase home value, and take control of your power.
How Energy Use Impacts System Size & Solar ROI in California
Your energy use habits play a big role in shaping your solar system—and your potential savings. At Allterra Solar, we design your system based on your actual usage to maximize your return.
Your system will likely be larger if you have higher PG&E bills. But here’s the upside: bigger systems often deliver a higher solar ROI in California because they offset the more expensive electricity tiers under PG&E’s rate structure.
Our local experts help you understand how usage translates into system size, cost, and value. And yes—even a small system can make a big difference. A modest solar investment cost still brings long-term energy savings, reduces your carbon footprint, and can qualify you for the 30% solar tax credit and 3CE battery rebates.
We also look at your roof space, energy storage needs, and how 2025 California solar incentives can boost the ROI of your system. It’s not just about solar panels on the Central Coast—it’s about getting the most value from your system.
Central Coast Incentives That Lower Your Costs
Going solar in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties is highly rewarding. Between local and federal incentive programs, you can dramatically reduce your solar investment cost—and Allterra Solar is here to guide you through it all.
The 30% solar tax credit, known as the Residential Clean Energy Credit, gives you back 30% of your total system cost—including installation and equipment. For example, if your project costs $25,000, you could get $7,500 back as a credit on your taxes.
Add battery storage? The savings get even better. And if you’re a customer of Central Coast Community Energy (3CE), you could qualify for an additional $300/kWh battery rebate—up to $7,800 or more in Central Coast battery rebates. Plus, the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) can sometimes provide thousands in rebates for homeowners adding energy storage systems like the Tesla Powerwall. Note that any rebate amount received should be deducted from the total project cost prior to calculating the federal tax credit.
As your local experts, Allterra ensures you don’t miss a single dollar in solar rebates. We help you apply, qualify, and stack incentives to reduce your upfront solar panel installation cost and improve your long-term solar ROI in California.
Why Allterra’s Approach to Solar + Battery Pricing Is Different
Allterra focuses on long-term value for solar pricing—not lowball solar quotes that lead to hidden costs. We use premium components, top-rated energy storage systems, like Enphase solar batteries, and professional local labor. These systems are built to last.
Every system we install is backed by industry-leading warranties on both equipment and workmanship. That means your solar investment cost includes more than just premium components—it includes long-term protection.
Your premium solar system is covered by warranties, from high-efficiency panels to reliable storage batteries. And with Allterra’s proven track record as a trusted solar company in Santa Cruz, you can count on our team to support your system for years to come.
Allterra Solar builds smarter systems, not cheaper ones—and we stand behind every install.
Real Pricing Scenarios & PG&E Solar Savings
These Central Coast solar pricing examples—paired with battery backup—show how homeowners can drastically reduce their PG&E bills while earning a strong return on investment. Each scenario reflects realistic home electricity usage, and factors in local rebates and federal tax credits for the most accurate picture of long-term savings.
Solar Energy Scenario 1
This Santa Cruz home uses a modest amount of electricity in the evenings when PG&E rates are highest. With a home battery, they store excess solar energy to avoid peak pricing and lower their monthly bill. Their solar system also powers essential appliances during outages, ensuring both savings and security.
Average Electricity Usage: 650 kWh
Average Power Bill: $300/mo
Solution:
- 5.46 kW Solar + 1 Tesla Powerwall 3 for solar battery backup
- Average Net Cost: $26,000 (after the California battery rebates and a 30% federal tax credit on the solar system & battery)
- Average Energy Bill With Solar System: $50/mo
- Average Monthly Solar Savings: $250/mo
- Payback period: 7.7 years
Solar Energy Scenario 2
This Monterey family tends to use more electricity during evening peak hours when they return from work and school, making battery storage especially valuable.
Pairing solar panels with two energy storage batteries helps them avoid high PG&E rates and maximize long-term savings after future rate hikes. Plus, they have peace of mind during California blackouts with their robust solar battery backup system.
Average Electricity Usage: 950 kWh
Average Power Bill: $450/mo
Solution:
- 7.98 kW Solar + 2 Tesla Powerwall 3s, for solar battery backup
- Average Net Cost: $39,000 (after the California battery rebates and a 30% federal tax credit on the solar system & battery)
- Average Energy Bill With Solar System: $50/mo
- Average Monthly Solar Savings: $400/mo
- Payback period: 7 years
FAQs on Going Solar on the Central Coast
Why should I go solar?
Going solar helps lower your energy bills and reduces reliance on PG&E and expensive grid power. Solar plus energy storage is a smart investment with long-term benefits in California. Solar incentives are available that can considerably lower the system cost, including solar tax credits and 3CE battery rebates. Plus, you’re helping the environment while increasing your home’s value.
How much does solar cost on the Central Coast?
Solar panel pricing depends on your home size, energy use, and equipment choices. We’ll provide a custom free solar quote so you understand the cost upfront. Thanks to solar energy and battery incentives in the Central Coast, the real cost is often much lower than most expect.
Do you offer financing?
Yes. Allterra Solar will work with you to find the best solution for you that fits your budget. Allterra Solar partners with several local Central Coast financial institutions that provide competitive loans with loan terms of 5, 10, 15, or 20 years. This allows you to own your system and lock in a price for electricity for years to come.
Are there still solar incentives or rebates available in Santa Cruz?
Yes, excellent incentives are currently available to Central Coast residents who are installing new solar systems. Homeowners can qualify for the 30% solar tax credit, and local programs like the Central Coast Community Energy battery rebate can save you thousands. We’ll also help you apply for additional programs like SGIP if your system qualifies.
What does the solar process entail?
We start with a custom solar quote based on your home and energy use. Then, we design, permit, and complete your solar panel installation with high-quality materials and expert care. Our team handles everything from start to finish—including programming your system to optimize energy bill savings by boosting self-consumption during peak energy rates.
What is the difference between you and other companies?
Allterra uses premium equipment and ethical labor, and we never cut corners on your system. Our solar pricing is transparent, and every installation includes strong warranties. As a trusted solar company in Santa Cruz since 2004, we provide deep local knowledge and long-term support. Many of our competitors have gone out of business in recent years, leaving households with invalid warranties and no one to call.
How do I know if I have a good house for solar?
The ideal properties for solar have sunny roofs in good condition, but partially shaded roofs can work as well. The best way to find out is by getting a free solar quote. We’ll assess your home’s sun exposure, energy usage, and roof layout to see if solar makes sense for you.
Can I use solar power during Public Safety Power Shutoffs?
Yes, if you pair solar with battery storage, like a Tesla Powerwall 3 or FranklinWH aPower 2, your system can run during outages. We’ll design a solution that includes energy storage and qualifies for solar incentives. This setup can reduce your reliance on PG&E and keep your home powered during Central Coast Public Safety Power Shutoffs.
How can I boost my solar ROI in California?
To boost your solar ROI, optimal system sizing and design are essential for maximizing value and minimizing costs. Adding battery storage allows you to store energy and avoid high electricity prices during peak demand times. Taking advantage of Central Coast solar incentives, like the solar tax credit and 3CE battery rebates, is key, along with choosing a quality installer to ensure system longevity and reliable performance.
Ready to See Your Custom Solar Savings?
Your solar journey starts with a clear, custom plan. At Allterra Solar, we combine local insight with advanced design tools to help you understand your potential savings—before you commit. From the cost of solar panels in California to your projected solar ROI in California, we’ll break it all down so you can make a wise, confident decision.
Our team builds systems to maximize performance and PG&E solar savings while minimizing surprises. Want to know your true solar investment cost or explore the benefits of solar panel pricing tailored to your home? Let’s talk.