Solar Energy Profile

If California were its own country, it would rank 7th globally in installed photovoltaic capacity. The average installed residential and commercial photovoltaic system prices in California have fallen by 13% in the last year. Nationally, prices have dropped steadily by 11% from last year and 34% from 2010.

In the Inland Empire region there is 130.7 MW of solar capacity installed (according to CSI data). The financial savings that can be incurred are one of the strongest selling points for residents that decide to go solar. By going solar, homeowners essentially pay a fixed cost for electricity rather than paying the ever-increasing electricity rates of the utilities.

“My average electric bill in the summer was $480 and in the winter was $260,” said Riverside County resident Steve Sherman, “My new average electric bill from Southern California Edison is $1, doing the math makes my savings very obvious.”

Below explains the average saving for a typical Riverside County residence:

System Size: 6,944 kW AC

Modules: 24 SunPower 327

Orientation: Western Facing Roof  

Financing Method: Cash 

Pre-Solar Bill: $320

Post Solar Bill: $25

ROI: 12% First Year 

Pay Back: 8 years 

Instant Savings: $3,525 (1st year) 

Federal Tax Credit: $14,012

“The very idea of the creation of this solar system to create affordable energy is a stroke of genius,” said Mr. Sherman, “Sullivan Solar Power is to be commended for taking the lead as a first class company in which its employees are truly committed and follow through to the best from start to finish.  In conclusion, I also receive a sizable credit on my taxes to boot.”

Homeowners who go solar before 2016 are eligible to receive a 30 percent federal tax credit. You are able to receive a dollar for dollar credit, which can be rolled over year after year until fully exhausted if you do not have the tax appetite to use fully in the first year.