by arlene on January 19, 2023
Despite hearing resounding objections from the public, scientists and even many politicians, in December of 2022 the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) approved changes to modify the amount of money paid by PG&E and other utility providers to solar customers for excess electricity that homes provide to the grid.
I partnered with a solar provider colleague, Derrick Holt of Solar Energy Systems of California who serves with me on the Climate Action Committee of our Association of REALTORS to produce a video to summarize the issues, and answer the key questions about why you want to act now, including examples of the financial advantages to you. Here is the Link to our Video.
For those who prefer a limited summary in print, here are some of the key points:
The updated Net Energy Metering (NEM) 3.0 rules, which go into effect after April 14, 2023, reduce the net energy payments to customers by a whopping 75%! And they have added monthly fees just for the priviledge of having rooftop solar systems.
But it’s not too late to sign-up for a solar installation under the curre, nt NEM 2.0 program. You only need your application approved before the deadline. Your solar vendor then has up to three years to complete the installation. You must apply in time for PG&E to respond, and my guess is that they will be deluged with applications!
In addition, you can transfer the current NEM 2.0 program to a new owner when you eventually sell your home, something you cannot do that under NEM 3.0. This both saves you money in the short term, and increases the value of your home in the future. There also are tax incentives to help with the upfront costs. So the sun and the stars really are converging for you to act now. Right now. This month, but not much later!
by arlene on November 17, 2022
Holidays in 2022 are still going to be in transition, just like so many aspects of our world. We are fortunate that COVID is less deadly now, but the virus is still evolving. Some families may be aching to have a large family gathering again, while I know quite a few people are still being cautious, not yet ready for groups larger than just a few friends. So whether there will be many people at your table or just a few, wouldn’t it be wonderful if for this 2022 version of Thanksgiving we focus on what really matters: being part of a community, and giving thanks for the friends and family members who are still with us, and who make our lives special!
Give a call to someone with whom you have not been in touch for many months. If you already been through your contact list once, maybe it is time for a second pass! The words “thank you” and “I have missed you!” really can be a valuable gift to someone!
Consider making this year’s holiday meals special by ordering out:
- Order take-away from some of the many local restaurants and caterers that are open, and really need your business to survive this health crisis. Give a call to your favorite restaurant and see what they are offering. You might consider Ann’s Catering, which used to provide fare for my broker tours and now provides daily meals and weekend specials to take away. They recently announced that they are struggling. It would be a shame to lose this local institution, so consider ordering either a full dinner occasionally, or perhaps just ordering some of their yummy side dishes and desserts.
- Order a pie or cake for either Thanksgiving or other holidays, and deliver it (or have it delivered) to clients or friend. There are traditional and inventive creations. Here’s a list of local options.
Buy fewer things as gifts, and focus on experiences:
- Give a membership to a local museum, zoo, or aquarium. Some are outdoor experiences, and all will have updated safety protocols.
- Give gift cards to local businesses. That helps some of our favorite businesses stay afloat, and your friends will enjoy excellent local items. The Cheese Board is always a hit with its excellent breads as well as their amazing pizzas! Or choose your local bookstore like Pegasus, Mrs. Dalloways, or Walden Pond Books.
Support local community services with donations:
- There are so many worthy causes that are having a really tough time, and you can make a donation, or make it in the name of someone you wish to honor. Whether you wish to support the struggling arts, or donate to the food banks which need record donations, or want to help the homeless, your donations will be greatly appreciated. You can help make sure local animals are taken care of by donating to shelters.
I’m going to be on the lookout for outdoor events that can still be very festive, while being safe. One Berkeley example: this Saturday, November 20th from 5 – 7 pm you can join an outdoor party along 4th street, as they debut their remarkable holiday light display. You can also enjoy Fantasy parades each Saturday evening in December and enjoy the lights then. Follow this link for more details, including other light displays throughout the East Bay this holiday season. Enjoy!
