Property Tax Exclusion Will Boost California's Leads for Solar Contractors

Property Tax Exclusion Will Boost California's Leads for SolarContractors

High housing prices and cost of living have made it difficult for California’s homeowners to afford upgrading to solar. The state’s residents need all of the financial relief they can get when it comes to purchasing installations. That’s why there was much disappointment over the pending expiration of California’s property tax exclusion for residents who acquire solar systems. Fortunately, September brought an extension of that policy through 2026.

No Tax on the Sun

California homeowners who installed solar in the past several decades have been protected by an exemption that prevents their property taxes from rising as a result. Solar advocates argued that an increase would be an unfair penalization of adopting a technology that benefits both the residents and the state, effectively serving as a “tax on the sun”.

This exemption was set to expire after 2024, bringing up yet another financial hurdle for homeowners who are already experiencing difficulties in affording solar. Industry leaders predicted a slowdown of installations in response - the last thing needed when the state is attempting to relieve the burden on its power grid.

Sen. Bob Hertzberg (D-Van Nuys) wrote and introduced Bill 1340 to preserve the tax exemption and support the growth of California’s energy diversification. Governor Newsom signed it into law on September 18th, issuing the following statement: “California has established aggressive clean energy goals in its broader plan to combat the impacts of climate change… Increasing the number and pace of solar projects brought online is a critical component of this plan."

The new repeal date is set for January 1st, 2027. Now, Californians can safely install solar without property tax hikes for several more years. Solar installers can also expect far more customers to come their way.

Find California’s Best Solar Leads for Sale

Maintaining this incentive will make it easier to find leads for solar contractors. Homeowners who are looking to take advantage will be avidly seeking out installers that can provide quotes. The key will be determining which leads are ready to convert into paying customers now.

Grid Freedom can help streamline this process by delivering qualified leads to contractors with first consultations already scheduled. All leads are thoroughly screened via live phone calls with agents trained to assess buyer readiness and eligibility. The simple pay-per-lead, contract-free system also makes it easy for contractors to meet their fluctuating needs over time.

Grid Freedom is the perfect resource in times like this, where new incentives create more buzz around solar. Our agency can help contractors make the most of it by zoning in on the right prospects.