Solar for Your Home

• Print Page
• Email Page

STEP 1: Complete a Quick, Free Energy Audit

The energy-efficiency audit is a requirement of the California Solar Initiative and can be completed in one of two different ways:

• Use PG&E’s online home energy analyzer
• Complete the audit over the phone by calling Solar Customer Service Center 1-877-743-4112

There are three ways to be exempt from an audit:

• Provide a copy of an energy audit completed in your home in the past 36 months
• Provide a copy of your home’s ENERGY STAR or LEED certification
• Submit a copy showing your home complies (CF-1R form prepared by a Certified Energy Plans Examiner) with the 2001 or 2005 CA Title 24 Energy Code

Acting on the audit is not a requirement at this time. However, PG&E recommends you take action with our rebates for energy-efficiency products such as appliances, lighting, heating and air conditioning and more. Visit our Rebates section for more information.

STEP 2: Contact and Choose an Installer

Qualified contractors are your key to getting the most productive PV system for your home. Contact an independent solar installation expert to determine the solar installation that best meets your energy needs and budget. Visit www.findsolar.com for a list of licensed solar installers. Choose a reputable solar installer by interviewing at least three potential solar installers and obtain their bids before making your selection.

STEP 3: Solar Installer Handles Applications

Your incentive is based on the expected performance of your solar installation, so documentation about your location, solar system positioning and equipment specification is required. In most cases, your solar installer will handle all of the paperwork by completing and submitting all the relevant forms to PG&E and local city agencies for you. Review the downloadable California Solar Initiative Program Handbook for a list of the paperwork required and the program application.

STEP 4: Solar Installer Handles Building and PG&E Inspections

Your solar installer will schedule an appointment with your local building permit agency to have a certified building inspector approve the solar installation. Your solar installer will send the building inspector's final approval to PG&E. Following an on-site inspection and net energy meter installation by PG&E engineers, your new solar installation will be connected to the electric grid and clean, renewable solar energy will be powering your home or being sent to the grid.

STEP 5: Claim Your Incentive and Tax Credit

PG&E and the California Solar Initiative will reward you for choosing to go solar by providing you with an incentive from your completed application. The incentive will be disbursed to your designated party. And, in addition to an incentive from the California Solar Initiative, you may be eligible for a federal tax credit. To find out if you qualify, see the Tax Incentives Assistance Project.