Why Go Solar?
SDG&E Rates are Out of Control!
⚠️ Why California’s Electricity Keeps Getting More Expensive
California electricity rates are now among the highest in the country — and they’re still going up. But why?
Let’s break it down.
🏭 1. The Closure of San Onofre and Energy Imports
In 2013, California shut down the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station — one of its biggest clean energy sources — due to safety concerns. This created a major gap in local electricity supply.
To make up for it, California began importing more power from out-of-state providers, often relying on older, dirtier power plants in Arizona, Nevada, and Utah. These long-distance imports are more expensive, and the costs are passed directly to California utility customers.
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🦆 2. The Duck Curve: When Solar Isn't Enough
During the day, California produces an abundance of solar power — often more than it can use. But when the sun sets, demand spikes, and solar disappears.
This creates a sharp gap in supply and demand, known as the “Duck Curve.” To fill that gap, utilities fire up natural gas plants or pull more from the grid — which drives up rates during peak hours (4–9pm).
🔋 Battery storage
Battery storage solves this by saving solar energy during the day and using it at night — right when it’s needed most.
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🔥 3. Grid Upgrades and Wildfire Mitigation
Utilities like SDG&E and PG&E are spending billions upgrading power lines, burying cables, and investing in wildfire prevention. These improvements are necessary — but they’re also baked into your utility bill.
The result? You’re paying more not just for energy — but for grid repairs, safety infrastructure, and environmental costs.
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💰 4. Rising Natural Gas Prices and Inflation
Many California power plants still rely on natural gas, which has seen significant price spikes in recent years. Combine that with general inflation, and you have a recipe for ever-increasing electricity bills, even if your usage stays the same.