Is Solar Still Worth it?
Is Solar Still Worth It in California After NEM 3.0? (Fresno Homeowner’s Guide)
With the recent changes to California’s Net Energy Metering policy — now known as NEM 3.0 — many Fresno homeowners are wondering:
“Is going solar still worth it?”
Let’s break down what NEM 3.0 actually means, how it affects your solar savings in Fresno, and why solar is still one of the smartest financial moves you can make — if you act now.
🔧 What Is NEM 3.0 and How Does It Work?
California’s Net Energy Metering (NEM) policy allows solar homeowners to earn credits for the extra energy their panels send back to the grid. Under NEM 2.0, those credits were almost equal to what you paid for energy — a huge benefit.
Now, with NEM 3.0, the credit rate has dropped significantly.
Previously: 1 kWh exported = 1 kWh credit
Now: 1 kWh exported = ~25% of its value (varies by utility)
The goal? Encourage solar + battery storage setups.
☀️ What This Means for Fresno Homeowners
Let’s be clear: solar is still 100% worth it — especially in Fresno.
Here’s why:
✅ You Still Save Big – Even under NEM 3.0, homeowners in Fresno can still cut electric bills by 50–80% with solar.
✅ Time-of-Use Pricing – PG&E rates are highest in the evening. With a battery, you store solar energy during the day and use it when rates peak.
✅ Huge Incentives Still Exist – The 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit is still active. You may also qualify for $0-down solar, depending on your home.
✅ Avoid Rate Increases – PG&E has proposed ongoing hikes. Lock in long-term savings now before rates rise again.
🧠 Real Example: Solar with Battery = Maximum Benefit
One Sun Solutions recently helped a Fresno homeowner install a solar + battery system. Their monthly bill dropped from $280 to $39, and they now run their home during peak hours without buying power from PG&E.
Plus, they stayed powered during the last summer outage.
💡 Should You Add a Battery?
Short answer: Yes — or at least explore the option.
While NEM 3.0 reduces export credits, battery storage lets you keep more of what you produce. It helps:
Maximize your solar investment
Protect your home from outages
Avoid expensive peak-hour utility charges
We’ll help you determine the best battery option for your home — and your budget.
📍 Why Act Now?
Many Fresno homeowners are rushing to install solar and storage before PG&E rolls out more rate changes.
Waiting longer means:
Paying more
Missing out on tax credits
Getting caught behind rising utility costs
🔋 Final Take: Solar Is Still the Smart Play in Fresno
Yes, NEM 3.0 changed things — but it hasn’t changed this:
Solar is still one of the best ways to save money, gain energy independence, and protect your home from rising utility bills.
👉 Check if your Fresno home qualifies for $0-down solar with battery backup — before rates rise again.
