It’s hard to argue with the benefits of Bay Area solar energy. The fact is that a household can stabilize its financial health and help improve air quality by installing a solar photovoltaic (PV) system above their home.

But many utility companies are worried that more homeowners will decide to go solar, because doing so could eat into their profits.

A recent article in the New York Times sheds light on opposition to solar power from electric companies, who fear that the net metering policies required by law in many states could cause rates to rise for those customers who haven’t already switched to a solar PV system, which could incentivize more people to make the switch.

“If the costs to maintain the grid are not being borne by some customers, then other customers have to bear a bigger and bigger portion,” Steve Malnight, a vice president at Pacific Gas and Electric, told the source.

This statement makes it sound as though there has been an enormous shift from conventional power sources to rooftop solar generation. While the solar industry has grown substantially over the past few years as solar panels have become more affordable and states have provided better renewable energy incentives, the fact it still accounts for less than one percent of the electricity generated in the U.S.

Given that utilities have tried to discourage tax credits and rebates that would make solar accessible to more people, it’s a good idea to invest in a solar electric system now, before these companies succeed in persuading public officials to dial back existing incentives. For more information on how you can benefit from this technology, contact West Coast Solar today.