Solar misinformation hasn't gone away - it's just changed. With the IOUs' NEM 3.0 Net Billing Tariff now in full effect and battery storage standard, the old myths from the 2010s have been replaced by new ones. Here are the 11 most common solar myths we hear from LA homeowners in 2026, debunked with current numbers.
- 1
Myth: Solar doesn't work in cloudy weather.
Modern panels produce 10–25% of rated output under cloud cover. Annual production in LA averages 1,650 kWh per installed kW - among the highest in the country.
- 2
Myth: Solar isn't worth it under NEM 3.0.
Solar-only payback for IOU customers did stretch to 12–15 years. But solar + battery is back to 7–9 years, and with rising utility rates, lifetime savings are larger than ever. LADWP customers operate under a separate program with different specifics.
- 3
Myth: Panels require lots of maintenance.
Modern panels are maintenance-free except for occasional cleaning (twice a year if you're near a freeway). Inverter inspections every 5 years are recommended.
- 4
Myth: Solar will damage my roof.
Properly installed solar protects the roof under the array from UV. Roof leaks come from sloppy installs - not the panels themselves. Always use a licensed roofer-installer or one who works closely with one.
- 5
Myth: I need to replace my roof before solar.
Only if your roof is past 15 years. Note: the 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit covers the solar equipment and labor - a standard re-roof underneath does not qualify, though integrated solar roofing products (like solar shingles) do.
- 6
Myth: Batteries are too expensive to be worth it.
Battery prices have dropped 22% since 2022. With the 30% federal credit and SGIP rebates, payback is now 6–10 years and accelerating with every rate increase.
- 7
Myth: I can DIY a solar install.
Permits, interconnection, and warranties all require licensed install. The 30% federal credit also requires licensed install for most components.
- 8
Myth: Solar credit only helps wealthy homeowners.
The 25D credit is nonrefundable but carries forward to future tax years, so most homeowners with any federal tax liability eventually capture the full 30%. California's DAC-SASH program also funds free or heavily subsidized solar for income-qualified families.
- 9
Myth: Solar will increase my property taxes.
California exempts solar from property tax reassessment through 2026 (likely to be extended). The system adds value without raising your tax bill.
- 10
Myth: My HOA can block solar.
California Solar Rights Act prohibits HOAs from significantly impacting solar performance or adding more than $1,000 in costs. They can require aesthetic reviews but cannot effectively block installation.
- 11
Myth: I should wait for better panels.
Panel efficiency improvements have plateaued at 22–24% - we're hitting silicon limits. The next big gains are in batteries and inverters. There's no "better tech" to wait for.
Real Numbers Beat Old Myths
Green Home Remodeling runs honest, conservative payback models on every quote. No high-pressure sales. Call (800) 650-9055.
