Solar & What Homeowners Need to Know

With rising energy costs and new changes to utility regulations, many homeowners are asking: “Is solar still a good investment?” The short answer? Yes—but the way you think about it has to change.

Welcome to NEM 3.0 — and a New Era of Solar

In California, the shift to Net Energy Metering 3.0 (NEM 3.0) means homeowners now get less money back for the extra energy they send to the grid. While that might sound like bad news, it’s actually an opportunity to get smarter with your energy—and more independent from the utility company.

Solar Still Makes Sense—Especially with Storage

The key to maximizing solar in 2025 is battery storage. Systems like the Tesla Powerwall or Enphase batteries allow you to:

• Store the energy you produce and use it when rates are highest
• Keep the lights on during outages and grid failures
• Reduce your reliance on expensive evening power from your utility

This means you're not just saving on your bill—you’re taking control of your energy future.

⚡Not Ready for Full Solar + Storage? We’ve Got Options

If a full solar system with storage isn’t in the budget right now, Estey Electric offers portable and backup power options, including:

• Portable generators with professional-grade transfer switches
• Smart panels that can integrate with solar later on
• Load management systems for key appliances

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We’ll work with you to design a solution that meets your needs and your budget—while keeping your home safe and powered no matter what.

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