The cost depends on the proposed system capacity, equipment selection, roof conditions, electrical infrastructure, and permitting requirements. Battery storage, electrical panel upgrades, and other additional work can also affect the total project cost. We assess the property’s requirements and prepare project-specific pricing based on the proposed equipment and installation scope.

A solar PV system generates electricity for use at your property, which can affect the amount of electricity you purchase from the grid. However, the impact on your bill depends on system production, household consumption, utility rates, export credits, and applicable billing arrangements.

We do not provide projected solar savings estimates under the Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0) because future electricity consumption and usage behavior cannot be predicted with sufficient certainty. We can explain the proposed system configuration, project costs, and applicable utility billing considerations.

Solar may be suitable for properties with appropriate roof conditions, available installation space, sufficient sunlight exposure, and electrical infrastructure that can accommodate the proposed system. Roof orientation, shading from nearby trees or buildings, roof condition, and household electricity consumption can influence system design. A property-specific assessment helps determine the installation requirements and appropriate system configuration.

MCE is Walnut Creek’s default electricity generation provider for participating customers, while PG&E continues to provide electricity delivery services, maintain the distribution infrastructure, and handle customer billing. Customers who have opted out of MCE may have a different electricity generation arrangement.

For eligible customers enrolled with MCE, solar billing may involve MCE’s Solar Billing Plan for generation-related charges and export credits, alongside PG&E’s applicable billing arrangements for delivery services. The applicable arrangement depends on the customer’s utility status, interconnection and Permission to Operate dates, existing net energy metering eligibility, and current tariffs. Check your electricity bill and confirm the applicable requirements with MCE and PG&E.

Solar PV and battery installations must comply with the City of Walnut Creek’s applicable building and electrical permitting requirements. The city publishes specific submittal guidance for photovoltaic systems and for storage battery systems in one- and two-family dwellings with solar PV.

Depending on the proposed equipment and installation scope, additional electrical documentation, permits, or inspections may be required. Requirements should be confirmed with the City of Walnut Creek before work begins.

Rossmoor homeowners should review their applicable community association or mutual requirements before proceeding with solar panel, battery storage, or related electrical installations. Community approval requirements may differ between associations and mutuals, and they are separate from City of Walnut Creek permitting and inspection requirements.

Identify the rules governing your specific property and confirm whether an architectural review or alteration application is required.

Yes. Third Walnut Creek Mutual has Policy 61.0, which addresses supplemental electrical systems, including solar energy systems, battery energy storage systems, and Level 2 EV charging systems. The policy covers matters such as contractor qualifications, equipment and installation requirements, and alteration applications.

Homeowners whose properties are governed by this policy should review the current requirements and obtain the applicable approvals before starting work. These requirements should not be assumed to apply to every Rossmoor property.

Not necessarily. Whether an upgrade is required depends on the existing panel’s capacity, available electrical service, condition, and the electrical requirements of the proposed solar, battery, or EV charging equipment. An assessment of the existing electrical infrastructure can help identify whether an upgrade or other electrical modifications are necessary.

A standard grid-connected solar PV system generally shuts down during a utility outage for electrical safety, so solar panels alone should not be assumed to provide power. Selected household circuits may be supplied during an outage when solar is paired with compatible battery storage and appropriately configured backup equipment.

The available backup capacity and operating duration depend on battery capacity, system configuration, available solar generation, and the electricity loads connected to the backup system.

The timeline depends on property assessment, system design, equipment availability, permit processing, installation complexity, required inspections, and utility interconnection. For properties subject to community association or mutual approval requirements, that review process may also affect scheduling. A project-specific timeline can be discussed after the property requirements and necessary approvals have been assessed.

You can contact our team to discuss your property, electricity consumption, roof conditions, and proposed solar or battery requirements. Information about your existing electrical panel, utility provider, and any applicable community approval requirements can also help us understand the project. We can review the details and discuss the next steps for a property-specific assessment.