Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely. Our Customer Reviews page shares Yelp and Google reviews. You can find the majority of our customer reviews, many of which include photos of our solar installations, on Yelp at https://www.yelp.com/biz/magic-sun-solar-loomis. We’ve also included photos of past solar installation projects on this website, and on our social media pages.

Yes. We assist our clients with all city/county permitting and utility interconnection related to our solar installation, and we can help navigate any solar-specific HOA approval requirements before installation begins.

Our installation crew is in-house.  We never use sub-contractors.  Each installation is overseen by our experienced professional management team.

Yes, the solar panels of the manufacturers we recommend offer good heat resistance and high efficiency.  Modern solar panels are engineered to handle heat and can withstand ambient temperatures up to 149 degrees Fahrenheit (65°C) without overheating. In addition, the newer solar panel models are highly efficient in converting sunlight into electricity, with some panels now reaching efficiency levels of 24.1%.

California’s abundant sunshine and relatively moderate temperatures, especially in the fall and winter, make it an ideal location for solar power generation.

• Panasonic offers a 25-year warranty on its solar panels, known as the AllGuard and TripleGuard, which covers product defects, performance output, and labor. When panels are bundled with Enphase microinverters, the AllGuard warranty also extends to those microinverters and to Unirac or IronRidge mounting systems.
• REC Solar panels come with a 20-year product warranty and a 25-year performance warranty. If you use a certified REC installer, the product warranty can be extended to 25 years. Additionally, all REC panels are eligible for the REC ProTrust warranty, which offers a comprehensive package with 25-year warranties for product, power, and labor.
• Silfab Solar offers a 25-year product workmanship warranty and a 30-year linear power performance guarantee. The guaranteed output level varies by model.
• Hanwha Q CELLS panels carry a product warranty of up to 25 years and a performance warranty of up to 30 years, depending on the model.
• Solar4America panels carry a 25-year performance warranty, and product warranty terms vary by model.

Warranty terms vary by manufacturer and model and can change over time. The specific warranty coverage for the equipment in your proposal will be provided during your consultation with Magic Sun Solar.

To answer that accurately, we’d need to know which utility company you’re referring to (e.g., PG&E, SMUD, SCE, SDG&E, etc.) and ideally your rate plan or general location (such as your ZIP code). Rules for battery storage and incentives can vary significantly depending on:

• Net billing/net metering policies (NEM 3.0 or others)
• Time-of-use (TOU) rate structures
• Grid export compensation
• Incentives like the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)

Is Battery Storage Recommended in California?
Short Answer: Yes — Especially Under NEM 3.0

Under California’s current NEM 3.0 rules (applies to PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E):

• Solar customers are paid less for excess electricity sent to the grid.
• Battery storage helps you store energy during the day and use it when rates are high (e.g., evenings), maximizing savings.
• Batteries help reduce dependency on less favorable export rates.

Exceptions:

• SMUD customers (e.g., in Sacramento): NEM 3.0 does not apply. SMUD’s Solar and Storage Rate pays a flat rate for excess solar at any time of day, and storing solar in a battery for SMUD’s 5 to 8 p.m. peak hours lowers your bill further. Batteries are also useful for backup and TOU optimization.
• Roseville Electric customers: Roseville runs its own utility and its own solar program, Roseville Solar 2.0. See our Solar Tax Incentives page for details.

Federal Incentives

• Homeowners: The 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit ended for systems installed after December 31, 2025, so it does not apply to a system you buy in 2026. Leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs) work differently: the company that owns the system can still claim a federal credit through 2027, which can be reflected in lease and PPA pricing.
• Businesses: The 30% federal tax credit is still available for business-owned solar systems placed in service by December 31, 2027. Projects using qualifying U.S.-made components can add a 10% bonus, reaching 40%.

California State & Local Incentives

• Property Tax Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems: Systems completed before January 1, 2027 won’t raise your property tax assessment, and keep the exclusion until the home changes ownership. Under current law, systems finished after that date will be assessed as new construction.
• Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP): Battery rebates with limited funding. PG&E currently lists its residential General Market and Equity Resiliency rebates as closed to new applications, and its income-qualified rebate as closed with a waitlist. Availability changes, so we’ll confirm current status during your consultation.
• Demand Side Grid Support (DSGS): A California Energy Commission program that pays battery owners for supporting the grid during extreme events from May through October. Eligibility depends on your utility and battery brand.
• SMUD: The Solar and Storage Rate pays for excess solar at any time of day, and the My Energy Optimizer Partner+ program pays a one-time enrollment incentive for home batteries.
• PG&E and Pioneer Community Energy: New solar customers are enrolled in PG&E’s Solar Billing Plan (NEM 3.0), which values exported solar by season, day, and hour.
• Roseville Electric: New solar customers are enrolled in Roseville Solar 2.0.

Current amounts, deadlines, and links to each program are on our Solar Tax Incentives page.

SGIP funding is limited, and program availability changes. Per PG&E’s program page, the residential General Market and Equity Resiliency rebates are currently closed to new applications, and the income-qualified Residential Solar and Storage Equity rebate is closed with a waitlist that your contractor can submit an application to. Magic Sun Solar will confirm current availability during your consultation.

Income-Qualified Rebate (Residential Solar and Storage Equity)

• Household income at or below 80% of area median income, or verified participation in CARE, FERA, or ESA
• PG&E lists this rebate as available to residents of its service area, including SMUD and community choice aggregator customers
• Income verification is required

Equity Resiliency Rebate

This rebate may cover 80% to 100% of the cost of installing a battery storage system. It is for customers who live in a Tier 2 or Tier 3 High Fire-Threat District, or who have experienced repeated Public Safety Power Shutoffs, and who also meet a qualifying condition such as Medical Baseline enrollment or income eligibility.

How to Check Your Eligibility

• Use the SGIP Portal or contact your utility for help
• You’ll need to apply through an approved contractor or self-install and apply directly

The popular solar financing options are listed next. All things considered, a cash purchase is best ROI if you can afford it.  Otherwise we’d recommend a solar loan with $0 down – combines ownership benefits with affordable monthly payments.

Solar Loans

• Ownership: You own the system and keep the incentives that apply to it
• Federal tax credit: The 30% residential credit ended for systems installed after 2025, so it doesn’t apply to a system you buy in 2026
• Loan Types: Secured (home equity) or unsecured personal loans
• Terms: Typically 5–25 years, with fixed or variable interest
• Lenders: Solar-specific lenders, banks, and local credit unions
• Recommended for: Homeowners who want long-term savings and ownership benefits

Cash Purchase

• Ownership: Full ownership with no loan payments
• Maximum savings: Highest return over time
• Federal tax credit: The 30% residential credit ended for systems installed after 2025, so it doesn’t apply to a system you buy in 2026. Business-owned systems can still qualify for a federal credit.
• Recommended for: Homeowners with sufficient funds who want the lowest lifetime cost

Solar Leases

• Ownership: Solar provider owns the system
• Payments: Fixed monthly lease payments regardless of energy use
• Tax credit: Not available to you. The provider can still claim a federal credit through 2027, which can be reflected in lease pricing
• Little/no upfront cost, but lower overall savings
• Recommended for: Customers who can’t qualify for loans or prefer not to own

Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)

• Ownership: Provider owns the system; you pay per kWh produced
• Lower electricity cost than utility rates, but savings may be modest
• Tax credit: Goes to the provider, and can be reflected in PPA pricing
• Recommended for: Those who want solar without upfront costs and no maintenance responsibilities

Local and Utility Financing Programs

• PACE (Property Assessed Clean Energy) – available in some areas, repaid via property taxes
• SMUD Solar Financing – SMUD may offer special rates or rebates for solar and battery projects

NEM 3.0 applies to customers of California’s investor-owned utilities, such as PG&E. SMUD and Roseville Electric customers have their own solar rates; see our Solar Tax Incentives page.

Under California’s Net Billing Tariff (NEM 3.0), which took effect on April 15, 2023, exported solar is credited at hourly rates that are usually lower than the retail rate you pay. That means your savings depend heavily on how much of your solar power you use at home and on whether you pair your system with battery storage.

Solar-Only Systems

A solar-only system still saves you money by covering the electricity your home uses while the sun is shining. Excess electricity sent back to the grid earns less than it did under previous net metering, so your savings depend on your system size, your energy use, and your rate plan.

Solar Plus Battery Storage

Adding battery storage to your solar system allows you to store excess energy generated during the day for use during peak evening hours when electricity rates are higher. This strategy reduces the amount of energy you need to purchase from the grid and maximizes the use of your own solar power.

Maximizing Savings

To optimize your savings under NEM 3.0:

• Consider battery storage: Storing and using your own solar energy during peak hours increases savings.
• Shift energy usage: Use high-energy appliances during daylight hours when your solar system is producing power.
• System sizing: Work with a solar professional to size your system appropriately based on your energy needs and consumption patterns.

Your actual savings depend on your usage, your utility and rate plan, and the system you choose. Magic Sun Solar will provide a savings estimate based on your own usage during your consultation.

Yes, when installed by a licensed contractor, your solar panels will comply with California’s updated fire codes and mounting requirements. Here’s how:​

California Fire Code Compliance for Solar Panels

California has stringent fire safety regulations for solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, outlined in the 2022 California Fire Code (Title 24, Part 9) and the California Residential Code. Key requirements include:​

• Fire Classification: Rooftop-mounted PV systems must be tested, listed, and identified with a fire classification (Class A, B, or C) in accordance with UL 2703.
• Access and Pathways: Residential buildings with hip, ridge, or valley roof features must provide a 3-foot access pathway away from the eave to these features. PV arrays should not be located higher than 3 feet below the ridge to allow for adequate smoke ventilation. ​
• Array Dimensions: PV arrays should not exceed 150 feet in any horizontal dimension.
• Marking and Labeling: DC conductors must be properly marked, and signage should be placed to identify the presence of a solar electric system, aiding first responders during emergencies.

Mounting and Installation Standards

Solar panels must be installed following the manufacturer’s instructions and comply with structural load requirements. The mounting systems should be designed to withstand environmental factors like wind and seismic loads, as per the California Building Code.

Ensuring Compliance

To ensure your solar installation meets all fire codes and mounting requirements:

• Hire a Licensed Contractor: Our installers are familiar with local codes and ensure the system is installed correctly.​
• Obtain Necessary Permits: Our contractors will secure all required building and electrical permits.​
• Inspection: After installation, local authorities will inspect the system to verify compliance with all applicable codes.

Yes. Installing solar panels on the ground—known as a ground-mounted solar system—requires a bit more space and preparation than rooftop systems, but it offers flexibility and higher efficiency in many cases. Here’s what you need:

Adequate Land Space:
You’ll need a clear, sunny area—ideally south-facing—with no shading from trees or structures. A typical 5 kW system may require 300 to 600 square feet or more, depending on the design and spacing.

Mounting Structure:
Panels are mounted on steel posts or concrete piers using either fixed-tilt racking or more advanced tracking systems that follow the sun. Your installer will help determine the best type based on your site conditions and energy goals.

Permits and Inspections:
You’ll need building and electrical permits, and in some areas, zoning approval. After installation, your local jurisdiction will inspect the system to ensure it meets code and safety standards.

Electrical and Utility Interconnection:
Wiring typically runs underground to your home’s main service panel. The installation must comply with national and local electrical codes, and you’ll also need approval from your utility for grid connection.

Inverter and Monitoring Equipment:
Just like rooftop systems, ground-mounted arrays require inverters (to convert DC to AC power) and monitoring tools so you can track performance and production.

Code Compliance:
Systems must adhere to California’s building, fire, and electrical codes. This includes proper setbacks, equipment labeling, and fire safety clearances.

Optional but Recommended:

• Protective fencing to keep animals or unauthorized individuals away
• Landscaping or visual screening if aesthetics or HOA rules are a concern
• Battery backup to maximize energy savings and provide emergency power

If you have space on your property and want maximum efficiency and accessibility, ground-mounted solar may be a smart solution.

Not usually — but it depends on your roofing materials and the installer. Most reputable solar installations do not void your roof warranty if done correctly. That said, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

How It’s Typically Handled:

Certified Installers:
Solar contractors are trained to follow roofing manufacturer guidelines. Many work with or are certified by roofing manufacturers to ensure warranty compliance.

Roof Type Matters:
Common roofing materials like asphalt shingles are generally safe to install on, as long as the roof is in good condition. More delicate materials like clay or slate tile may have stricter guidelines or require specialty mounting methods.

Penetrations and Flashing:
Mounting hardware is sealed using flashing systems designed to prevent leaks. If this is done improperly, it could affect your warranty—another reason to choose a licensed, experienced installer.

Supplemental Warranty or Coverage:
Reputable solar companies often offer a workmanship warranty (10–25 years) that covers any roof penetrations they make. This adds protection beyond your original roof warranty.

Roofing Company Coordination (Best Practice):
If your roof is under warranty from a specific roofing contractor, it’s best to check with them first. Some may even inspect the roof after installation to maintain your coverage or offer a re-certification.

Bottom line: Installing solar usually won’t void your roof warranty—as long as it’s done properly by a qualified contractor and your roof is in good condition. Always check with both your solar provider and your roofing manufacturer to ensure everyone’s on the same page.