Quick answers to the questions we hear most.

Yes — but only with battery storage. NEM 3.0 dropped solar export credits by roughly 75%, so a solar-only system gives most of its production to the utility for pennies. Adding a battery lets you store excess production for evening use, capturing the full retail value. Real IRR for solar + storage in 2026 is 8–14% for most California homes — better than nearly any passive investment.

Commercial solar typically delivers 15–22% IRR over 25 years when you combine the 30% Section 48E commercial ITC (currently available only for projects that begin construction by July 4, 2026, or are placed in service by December 31, 2027), accelerated depreciation (5-year MACRS or bonus), and demand charge reduction from integrated battery storage. Payback is usually 5–7 years. Higher rate tiers (PG&E E-19, E-20) deliver better returns. Battery storage qualifies for the 48E credit through 2032. Use our commercial calculator to model your facility.

From signed contract to operational system: residential typically 8–14 weeks, commercial typically 4–9 months. The variable is utility interconnection — PG&E Rule 21 timelines have stretched. We file early (during design, before construction) to protect your schedule. Actual installation on-site is usually 2–5 days for residential, 2–6 weeks for commercial.

For high-stakes projects we standardize on Maxeon and REC panels (lowest degradation rates in the industry), Sol-Ark and Enphase inverters (best islanding and Sunlight Backup™ performance), and Enphase or commercial-grade lithium batteries. We don't chase the cheapest panel of the month — equipment quality determines whether your financial model holds up at year 15.

Under current law as of 2026: The residential Section 25D credit expired on December 31, 2025 — there is no federal credit for a homeowner-purchased residential solar system installed in 2026 or later. The commercial Section 48E credit remains at 30%, but only for projects that begin construction by July 4, 2026, or are placed in service by December 31, 2027. Battery storage qualifies for the 48E credit through 2032 as a standalone asset. Third-party-owned residential systems (leases and PPAs) continue to qualify under the commercial framework. Consult your tax advisor for your specific situation. See our mid-year 2026 reality check for the full picture.

Engineering, design, and project management are handled entirely in-house. From first design through final commissioning, you always have a single accountable point of contact and one company standing behind the finished system.