Reno Solar: its Backstory & How to Use it to Your Advantage

Reno is a prime example of how past solar blunders can get turned into a victory. This city serves as a microcosm of how other cities and states can move forward.

The History of Solar in Reno

In January of 2016, the solar industry was challenged. The public utility commission approved a retroactive solar policy change.

This change resulted in NV Energy abandoning their net metering program. It halted solar power right when the industry was starting to reach its apex.

On December 23, 2015, Greentech Media  stated, “The decision increases the fixed service charge for net-metered solar customers, and gradually lowers compensation for net excess solar generation from the retail rate to the wholesale rate for electricity, over the next four years.”

At the time, Nevada was the 10th largest market for residential solar capacity. After the policy change, however, many Reno solar companies move out of Nevada to keep their heads above of water putting solar-related jobs went into flux.

Reno Solar’s Journey and Impact

Thankfully, a light emerged at the end of the tunnel. In June of 2017 unhappy Nevadan voices were heard, and the 2015 rate increases were reversed.

Part of the reason was that the Governor appointed new utility commissioners. They, in turn, established new rules and regulations that are now in favor of Reno solar customers.

With these new rates, Reno’s solar industry has made a gradual comeback. These new policies are proof that the people of Nevada have a voice and that the future will continue to be bright.

In fact, Nevada’s example has ensured Utah companies will thrive despite metering changes. When Rocky Mountain Power made a similar move in Utah, their solar industry was able to use Nevada’s example.

This led to a compromise that allowed solar companies to continue operating in Utah. History has shown and statistics predict that solar power isn’t going anywhere.

Choosing a Reno Solar Installer

As of right now, the main Reno installers are Go Solar Group, Sunworks and Solar City. These companies come to mind first for almost every interested Reno, Nevada citizen.

Your solar needs, however, might be better met by a different solar installer. It is wise to take a look at all of your options before you make a decision. This is especially true for people that are interested in buying residential solar.

Find Your Options

Thankfully, there are ways to make this process a little easier. One way to get a better idea of your solar options is through review websites.

Taking a look at the different companies in your area will give you a better idea of what your options are. Make sure the review ranking is based on customer experience. Additionally, if you have a trusted friend who’s gone solar, speaking with them will help you make an informed decision.

Take Steve Cummings, for instance. He became a Go Solar Group customer by attending his neighbor’s open house for their Go Solar Group install. Watch the video below to hear his story.

Once you have your shortlist of Reno solar companies, it is time to take a deeper look at what they bring to the table. Each solar company is a little different.

Compare Your Options

It requires a little more effort to compare bids, but it will work out to your advantage. Comparing bids allows you to better see what is a good deal and what isn’t.

Differences in pricing and products will help you to get a feel for a “good deal” in your area. Knowing what to look for in a solar company, however, may be a bit of a challenge.

A few things you should compare:

• warranty coverage
• product quality
• after install services
• financing options

Once you have asked about these you can accurately compare each company.

The Future of Residential Solar in the Sunny City of Reno

Nevada’s new state requirements for clean energy make it safe to say that future solar customers have nothing to worry about. Although competition will continue their efforts to stomp out worthy opponents, the public voice will always prevail.