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Going solar is a great way to reduce your energy bill and carbon footprint. Silicon Valley Power offers several resources for customers interested in solar energy.

benefits of going solar
Reduce your electric bill Increase the value of your home Generate clean energy	Reduce your carbon footprint Help Santa Clara reduce greenhouse gas emissions Make an investment lasting up to 25 years

Last Updated:

09-29-2025

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FAQs

What is a photovoltaic (PV) system?

A PV system uses the photovoltaic effect to capture sunlight and produce electricity that can power your home. Find out if a PV system is right for you.
Does a PV system replace an electric utility?

No. The majority of PV systems are grid-connected systems where you will get power from both your PV system and Silicon Valley Power. However, you could have a stand-alone or off-grid system where you solely use energy from your PV system, but these systems are rare.
What is the lifespan of a PV system?

A PV system can last more than 25 years.

Your PV panels typically come with a manufacturer’s warranty of 25 years but last a lot longer than that. However, after 25 years, your panels might produce less energy than previously guaranteed by the manufacturer.

Your inverters will likely last 10 to 15 years and come with a manufacturer’s warranty of 10 years. You will need to replace these during the lifespan of your PV panels.

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