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Discover the latest solar energy information

8 Common Solar Panel Scams to Avoid
When you install a solar array on your home, you expect to have a good experience working with a solar[...]
How to Go Solar in Monterey County, CA
Are you thinking about switching to solar? The benefits of powering a home with renewable energy add up quickly. Since[...]
Going Solar in California in 2024: Costs, Regulations & Incentives
Historically, California has been one of the best states in the country for solar power generation, but the landscape has[...]
What Are Solar Panels Made Of? Everything You Need to Know
Solar panels are efficient, inexpensive, and accessible, but many people wonder how they work and how they provide renewable energy[...]
How to Prevent Power Outages: Solutions & Tips
Power outages are becoming more and more common all across the country. Severe weather, unreliable grid systems, and aging infrastructure[...]
How Does Solar Energy Integrate With Smart Homes?
Smart homes are becoming more popular throughout the US. According to recent data, as many as 63.43 million households are[...]
Battery Assisted Solar: A New Way to Power Your Home
Today, it’s common for homeowners to worry about the efficiency of their spaces. And for good reason. After all, we[...]
Why is My PG&E Bill So High in 2024 and What Can I Do About It?
Recently, customers across Northern California received an unwelcome surprise when they opened their PG&E bills: the charges are higher than[...]
Solar Battery Backup for the Home: A Complete Guide for California Homeowners [2023]
Average monthly electric bills are going up. The grid in California has become increasingly unstable, and more people are looking[...]
Backup Power for the Home: A Complete Guide [2023]
Imagine this: it’s a dark, stormy night, and you hear a large crack of thunder. Suddenly, your home goes silent.[...]
PG&E Rate Increase Of 2023: What You Need To Know
If you’re familiar with California utilities giant PG&E, you know that the company raises its rates frequently. In fact, the[...]
Can I Still Get Grandfathered into NEM 2.0 (And Avoid NEM 3.0)?
Looking To Go Solar In The Near Future? Pay Close Attention! The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) recently voted to pass[...]
How Many Solar Panels Do I Need?
If you’re considering installing solar panels on your home, you’re probably wondering how many panels you need. How many panels[...]
What Capitola Residents Should Know About Solar Battery Backup
Homeowners in Capitola, California share a strong sense of responsibility for the environment. Energy conservation plays a vital role in[...]
The PG&E Rate Increase in 2022: What You Need to Know
In California, utility customers know a thing or two about PG&E rate increases. The utility giant has increased its rates[...]
How to Go Solar in San Jose, CA: A Complete Guide [2022]
The cost of electricity in California continues to rise. Outages occur more frequently than ever in San Jose and the[...]
The Ultimate Guide to Reduce Your Energy Bill at Home [2022]
Tracking home electricity bills over the course of a year is usually predictable. The cost per kilowatt-hour continues to creep[...]
3 Cupertino Solar Panel Rebates You Should Know About
If you’re considering installing solar panels, you might be wondering about the costs. And if you’re worried about being able[...]
Sandbar Solar & Electric Founder Scott Laskey Speaks at Microgrid California
Scott Laskey Presents Proven Microgrid Solutions for California Grid Problems [Santa Cruz, CA, October 20, 2021] The annual Microgrid California[...]
Your 10 Step Guide to Choosing a Solar Company in Salinas, CA
Here in Salinas, energy conservation plays an important role in municipal operations.The city's investments are expected to lower energy costs[...]
How to Go Solar in Morgan Hill, CA: A Step By Step Guide
You're ready to go solar, bring down energy costs and enjoy grid independence. You see neighboring homes in Morgan Hill[...]
What Los Gatos Homeowners Should Know About Going Solar
It's one of the best places to call home in Santa Clara County. Los Gatos balances its position as a[...]
NEM 3.0 is Here: What You Need to Know [2023]
On December 15, 2022, the CPUC voted unanimously to pass NEM 3.0. The changes went into effect on April 14,[...]
Help Save Net Energy Metering (NEM) and Preserve the Local Solar Industry [Sign Petition]
Dear Sandbar customers and local solar stakeholders, Our local solar industry in California and the 3CE region is being aggressively[...]
The PG&E Rate Increase of 2021: What You Need to Know
If you live in California, you know that PG&E has experienced a tumultuous couple of years. The utility provider has[...]
Solar Panel Installation: A Complete Guide [2022]
Solar energy is more in-demand than ever. In the last ten years, the solar industry has grown at an average[...]
Solar Battery vs. Generator: Which One is Best for My Home?
When the power goes out in your area, what are your options? Unless you have backup power at your home,[...]
Your Solar True-Up Bill: What You Need to Know
When you choose to go solar, your relationship with PG&E will change. One of the biggest changes is that you'll[...]
October 26, 2019: How to Get Off the Grid
Check out Scott's interview on KGO Radio 810 with Michael Finney as they chat about installing your own energy supply.[...]
SB901 Explained: What Is it and Why Should You Care?
In August of 2018, the California State Legislature passed Senate Bill 901 (also known as SB901). This bill, designed to[...]
What Are Microgrids and How do They Work?
Energy delivery systems aren’t as reliable as they used to be. Utility giants like PG&E are implementing rolling blackouts, and[...]
PGE Rolling Blackouts: What you Need to Know
In 2018, historic wildfires ravaged California. The Camp Fire destroyed the city of Paradise. It also caused an unprecedented 85[...]
The PG&E Rate Increase of 2019: What you Need to Know
On December 13, 2018, California utility giant PG&E submitted its 2020 General Rate Case (GRC) to the California Public Utilities[...]
How Does Solar Energy Work? A Step by Step Guide
More California homeowners than ever are taking advantage of the tax credits and positive environmental impact offered by solar panel[...]
7 Top Benefits of Commercial Battery Backup Systems
Today, commercial buildings and businesses need to focus on energy security above virtually all else. With weather patterns becoming more[...]
Solar Panels for Flat Roofs: 3 Things You Need to Know
So, you’ve decided you want to install solar panels, but your home or business has a flat roof. Can you[...]
5 Things You Can do About Pigeons Under Your Solar Panels
If there’s one thing we all know about birds, it’s that they poop. There’s no way around it. While this[...]
Can You Install Solar Panels on a Metal Roof? What You Need to Know
Can you install solar panels on a metal roof? The answer is a resounding yes. In the world of solar[...]
Is it Worth Installing Solar Panels? Here’s What You Should Know
Some homeowners were surprised by the U.S. election results of November 2016, and the American public has seen many policy[...]
What is the Best Roof Material for Solar Panels? 5 Factors to Consider
If you’re considering installing a residential solar power system, you’re likely planning to put the system on your roof. While[...]
Local Solar Companies: 3 Reasons to Choose a Santa Cruz Installer
When you decide to transition to clean energy by installing a home solar system, you have more than just an[...]
6 Factors That Impact Solar Panel Installation Time
Installing home solar panels is an exciting process, but how long does it take? While that answer varies from job[...]
The Best Batteries for Solar Panels: What They Have in Common
If you’re considering installing a solar energy storage system, you’re likely wondering about the best batteries for solar panels. Even[...]
The PGE Rate Increase of 2018: What you Need to Know
In April of 2018, Pacific Gas and Electric Co., also known as PG&E, implemented a new rate structure - the[...]
Climate Change in California: 3 Shocking Truths for 2018 & Beyond
Climate change in California: it’s a reality every resident of this great state lives with daily. In fact, you’ve probably[...]
5 Remarkable Benefits of Solar Panels in Homes
Over the last several years, the U.S. solar industry has grown drastically. And this makes sense: more and more homeowners[...]
Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Solar Program: What it is & How it Works
If you’re interested in installing a solar energy system, one of your first questions is probably how you’ll cover the[...]
How Does Solar Battery Storage Work? A Definitive Guide
In recent years, residential solar battery backups have become more popular and widespread. Today, solar power generates 1.9% of all[...]
6 Incredible Benefits of Solar Battery Storage for Your Home
If you’re considering investing in a battery for solar storage, you’re on to something. In 2016, the average monthly electric[...]
California Solar Power: A Real-Time Update
California has been leading the country in renewable and solar energy for many years. In fact, California invested so heavily[...]
Blockchain in Solar Energy: What You Need to Know
By now, you’ve probably heard about blockchain and the Internet of Things. Disrupting all industries across the board, these technologies[...]
The 5 Key Benefits of Solar Energy to the Environment
Why is solar energy good for the environment? The answer is simple: many reasons. In fact, solar power’s positive environmental[...]
5 Things You Need to Know About The New Solar Tariffs
If you’ve heard about the solar tariffs, you know they may affect you and your solar panels in coming years.[...]
Are Solar Panels Covered by Home Insurance? (3 Fast Facts)
“Should I insure my solar panels? Are they already covered by my home insurance? How do I protect them?” If[...]
My Roof Leaks After Installing Solar Panels: 3 Sneaky Causes
“Will my roof leak with solar panels?” This is one of the most common questions homeowners have when it comes[...]
I Still Have an Electric Bill After Solar Panels: Here Are 3 Reasons Why
Most homeowners already know it: solar installation for the home is one of the best options for lowering your energy[...]
4 Reasons Not to go Solar That Homeowners Worry About (But Shouldn’t)
Some homeowners don’t want to go solar. They’ve heard all about the perks of solar power, but they don’t buy[...]
5 Top Solar Power Questions and Answers from the Pros
If you’re like so many homeowners in the California area, you have many questions regarding solar power. As solar power[...]
7 Eco-Friendly Tips for the Holidays
Interested in going green during the holiday season? Looking for holiday conservation tips you can use around the home and[...]
Is it Harder to Sell a House With Solar Panels? The Answer May Surprise You
If you’ve installed a solar system on your home, you may be wondering what you can expect when it comes[...]
Should I buy a House With Solar Panels? 5 Questions to Ask Yourself
Are you in the market to buy a home? If so, you might be wondering whether buying a home with[...]
How Much do Solar Panels Save on Electricity Bills?
One of the biggest benefits of solar panels is that they save you money. Most people who install residential systems[...]
9 Incredible Facts About Solar Panels (That You Probably Didn’t Know)
Are you interested in learning more about solar panels? Do you live in an area where solar panels are common[...]
Do Solar Panels Work on Cloudy Days? The Answer May Surprise You
Most people know that solar panels in the sun produce reliable energy in direct sunlight. But what happens when it’s[...]
What Is Senate Bill 100? 4 Things You Need to Know
Are you considering purchasing solar panels for your home? If so, you probably have plenty of questions. The most common[...]
Net Metering 2.0 in California: What You Need to Know About the Program
Are you curious about Net Metering 2.0? Do you know what's changed under the new policies? Are you wondering how[...]
Solar Panel Warranties: 4 Things You Need to Know
You're looking forward to switching the house over to solar, but you wonder about the types of solar panel warranties[...]
Troubleshooting Solar Panels: 4 Common Problems and Solutions
Home solar systems are unique, and so are the challenges that come with owning them. Keep in mind that solar[...]
Solar Energy Pros and Cons: Understand These 5 Simple Facts
Energy solutions aren't "one size fits all." Homes and businesses are unique, and so are their power needs. In other[...]
How Many Solar Panels Do I Need to Charge My Electric Car?
Some technologies seem to go hand in hand, and solar charging for electric vehicles is a prime example. Why fill a[...]
8 Simple Tips for Going Green at Home
Are you curious about going green at home? If you're a business, there are many ways to go green -[...]
The Federal Solar Tax Credit: What You Need to Know [2024]
Could investing in solar energy pay off sooner than you think? The short answer is yes. Many residential home solar[...]
Could Ground-mounted Solar Panels Be Right for Your Home?
Are you excited about installing solar panels but unsure whether your roof is the best place for them? Maybe you'd[...]
What Trade Politics Might Mean for Solar Panel Prices
Purchasing home solar panels is a great option for people who care about environmental stewardship. Of course, pricing is also[...]
Do Solar Panels Add Value to Your Home?
Are you interested in increasing your home's resale value? Whether you prefer investing in new countertops, cabinets or major appliances,[...]
Solar vs. Wind: Residential Power Choices Made Simple
When you want to make your home more ecologically friendly, choosing renewable power is a surefire way to get started.[...]
Solar Panel Monitoring Methods: 4 Futuristic Tech Features
After investing in a home solar panel installation, it’s helpful to know what kind of return it’s generating. Fortunately, you[...]
How to Take Advantage of the SGIP Rebate Incentive Program in 2018
Are you taking advantage of every stimulus initiative available for your solar power upgrade project? If not, then you may[...]
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost? 3 Points to Consider
From protecting the planet to lowering your energy bills along with your carbon footprint, solar panels are appealing alternative energy options.[...]
5 Cool Solar Energy Uses and Applications in Everyday Life
Could you simplify your daily routine by putting the sun to work? You might be surprised at just how many[...]
Monterey Bay Community Power: How Will it Affect Central Coast Homeowners?
The Monterey Bay Community Power project has been making headlines lately, but what does it mean for your family or[...]
How To Compare Solar System Quotes: 10 Vital Secrets
Installing solar panels to generate power is an important investment and a big step forward. Although there are many potential[...]
Solar Shingles vs. Solar Panels: What’s Better?
What You Should Know About PV Panels and the Tesla Solar Roof If there’s one trend that's worth paying attention[...]
Should I Install Solar Panels on My Home?
Making a More Informed Choice About How You Consume Power Could you benefit from considering alternative energy? Like any property[...]
Is PG&E Making Solar Home Battery Solutions More Viable?
Millions of Californian property owners are considering solar panel installations. What they may not know is how adding a solar[...]
Net Metering in California: A Complete Guide [2023]
If you own a solar panel system or are considering installing one, you may be wondering, “How does net metering[...]
Solar System Maintenance Checklist: 5 Easy DIY Steps
If you have solar panels on your home, or are considering solar for your home in the future, you may[...]
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Right Solar Installer
Are you considering installing solar panels for your home or business? Congratulations, you’ve made a great decision. But you’re probably[...]
DIY Solar Power: The Pros & Cons You Should Know About
Are you a homeowner who wants to save money and reduce your dependency on local power companies? Would you be[...]
Powered by the Sun, UBP Joins Santa Cruz Solar Revolution
Sandbar Solar is continuing its commitment to the Santa Cruz community into 2017 and beyond. We're proud to be an[...]
Buy vs. Lease Solar Panels: Which Option Is Better?
If you've decided to make a positive environmental impact and reduce your dependence on the power grid by installing solar[...]
WHY do we want a ‘Cleaner, Greener Tomorrow’? Fossil Fuels and the Effect that they have on our Environment
Fossil Fuels are natural fuels such as coal or gas, formed in the earth over long periods of time, from[...]
CPUC extends net energy metering for solar customers in California
In support of clean, renewable energy, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) voted to extend net energy metering for solar[...]
iPhone 6 solar charger
Apple might add solar charging features to its products at some point in the future, but we’re not quite there[...]
Community Solar Gardens in Minnesota
Xcel Energy customers soon will be able to receive power from community solar gardens. After a concerted effort by the[...]
Increased wildlife protection while using solar
Conservation groups have reached an agreement with the First Solar, Inc. to provide additional conservation protections to wild lands and[...]
Sandbar Solar project featured in the Good Times Green Issue
Check out this weeks Goodtimes Weekly green issue, "Santa Cruz Skateboard's parent company NHS is part of a growing solar[...]
Sandbar Solar’s article in Solar Industry Magazine
Sandbar Solar's project for Skateboard Manufacturer NHS was featured in Solar Industry magazine. "Everybody at Sandbar Solar was eager to[...]
Sandbar Solar’s NHS project
Check out this killer drone video made by Mike Golder. This is the Seabright Cannery solar project we completed for[...]
Solar is cheap
Because sunshine is free, the cost advantage over fossil fuels will continue to increase. “Solar is cheap and it’s only[...]
Amazon going green with a solar farm
While that power may end up in homes, that's not what Amazon is backing it for: Amazon plans to use[...]
Solar power boom
Approximately two-thirds of big investment companies plan to prioritize solar power in the next five years, according to a new[...]
U.S. Energy Department announces funding to boost solar workforce
Funding will help train American workers for the solar energy workforce and further drive down the cost of solar by[...]
Rooftop and parking lot solar installations are all we need
According to a new study just published in the journal Nature Climate Change, California apparently could get all of the electricity[...]
The benefits of solar do outweigh the cost!
Sandbar Solar offers financing options for residential homes or businesses that want to go solar, but afraid they might not[...]
Solar is the fastest growing source of renewable energy
From the end of 2004 through the end of 2014, the deployment of solar energy in the U.S. grew at[...]
Sunnova’s EZ Own Program
EZ Own Program Benefits: No money down! Start saving today with no upfront investment Service and Maintenance- EZ own bundled with Sunnova's[...]
The Seabright Cannery
Sandbar Solar is very excited to get this project started at NHS, Inc. and Verve coffee Roasters! The industrial complex[...]
The Seabright Cannery
Another solar project in the works! Sandbar Solar is going to be helping out the NHS, inc. fun factory, as[...]
Community Solar Energy
An article in EcoWatch this week examines new solar legislation in Maryland that allows more Marylanders than ever to access[...]
Roof inspection at NHS
Sandbar Solar evaluating NHS roof top, making sure the upcoming project will be running smoothly. Excited to help our friends[...]
2015 Cabrillo College Job Fair
Sandbar Solar is Now Hiring! We will be participating at the Cabrillo College Job Fair on Wednesday April 29, 2015[...]
Financial help from CaliforniaFIRST
The CaliforniaFIRST program is an innovative finance model that allows homeowners to install solar and home efficiency projects today and[...]
Thank you Parish Pub!
Thank you so much Parish Pub House for supporting Sandbar Solar by using our new pint glasses! Your support means[...]
Sandbar Solar wants to help you!
Sandbar Solar wants to help you financially and easy for you to receive solar energy! We provide financing options through[...]
Our second solar trailer
  This is Sandbar's second Solar Trailer under construction! This trailer will be donated to various Santa Cruz Community Events!

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