Here’s an amazing fact that I still can’t get my head around completely:
- It took California more than 30 years to install 1,000 MW of solar capacity. We’re talking from 1983 to 2013.
- But…it took only 12 months for the state to go from 1,000 MW of solar capacity to 2,000 MW.
You read that correctly. Our great state added more solar capacity in the past year than in the previous 30 years combined.
That’s pretty amazing.
Kudos to San Diego’s Solar Energy Industry
Obviously, this was a statewide effort. Throughout California, thousands upon thousands of homeowners, businesses, and even utility companies decided to invest in renewable, clean, and affordable solar energy.
But I’d like to think that San Diego played an integral role in this transformation. After all, we have year-round sunshine that our Northern Californian counterparts could only dream about. And we also have solar incentives and programs that have become the envy of the world.
As a result, we have an almost unfair advantage when it comes to solar payback periods, ROIs, and costs. Installing panels is simply too lucrative for area homeowners and businesses to ignore.
Can San Diego and California Continue to Lead the Solar Charge in 2014?
Oil prices aren’t getting any cheaper. Utility rates are on the rise. The environment is in free-fall. And solar panel prices are on the decline.
From where I stand, this is a recipe for long-term success. As attractive as solar was in 2013, it will only become more so in 2014 and beyond. The ROIs will go up, and the payback periods will go down.
This means that we could potentially reach 3,000 MW or even 4,000 MW by the end of this year. How amazing would that be?
Imagine driving around a much cleaner and more prosperous San Diego powered by clean and silent solar panels. Panels that derive 100% of their electricity from pure sunshine.
I’m confident that our great County (and State) can do the impossible – once again. All the ingredients are already there. We just have to get the word out about how awesome and lucrative renewable energy truly is.
Help us spread the message. Forward this article to your friends and colleagues. Let them know that with a well-installed solar PV system, they can enjoy free and clean electricity for decades (not years – but decades).
And if you’re in the market for a solar installation for your home or business, contact us today for a free consultation.
