If you live in the Bay Area, you know that the transition to an all-electric future isn’t just a trend—it’s the standard. From banning gas in new construction to the explosion of Teslas on the 101, our energy landscape is shifting rapidly. At West Coast Solar in Brentwood, we believe the smartest way to navigate this shift is by “over-sizing” your solar array.
Rather than building a system that barely covers your current bills, designing for 110% or even 120% of your usage protects your investment. Here are five reasons why you should think big when looking for solar panel systems for sale. Call today.
The EV Revolution is in Your Driveway
Even if you don’t own an electric vehicle (EV) yet, your next car will likely be one. Charging an EV at home can increase your electricity consumption by 30% to 50% instantly. If you size your system only for your current lights and appliances, plugging in that new Rivian or Model Y will force you back to buying expensive power from the grid.
Electrification and Home Additions
Are you considering swapping your gas furnace for a heat pump, installing an induction cooktop, or perhaps building an Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) in the backyard? These upgrades add a significant load to your electrical panel. Experienced residential solar installers know that it is far more cost-effective to install the extra capacity now than to try and retrofit a system later.
Combatting Degradation and Grey Days
Solar panels are incredibly durable, but they do lose a tiny fraction of efficiency every year (roughly 0.5%). Furthermore, the Bay Area has its share of “June Gloom” and foggy winter mornings. An oversized system creates a production buffer. It ensures that ten years from now—or during a cloudy December week—you are still generating enough power to keep your bill at zero.
Better Economics (Economy of Scale)
There are fixed costs involved in every solar project, such as permitting, design, and crew mobilization. Adding 4-5 extra panels during the initial installation costs significantly less than hiring home solar installers to come back in three years to expand your array. A “phase two” installation is almost always more expensive per watt than getting it done right the first time.
Battery Readiness
If you plan to add battery backup later to guard against power safety shutoffs (PSPS), you need a system large enough to power your home and recharge the battery simultaneously. An undersized system might struggle to top off your battery during the day, leaving you vulnerable at night.
GET STARTED TODAY
At West Coast Solar, we don’t just want to sell you panels; we want to design a future-proof energy solution. We pride ourselves on being the best solar company in the region because we anticipate your needs before they happen. Don’t settle for the bare minimum. Trust the best solar installers in the Bay Area to build a system that grows with you. Call today.
