Zach Smith

An image symbolizing the question whether a solar lease or PPA worth it in Nevada?

Is a Solar Lease or PPA Worth It in Nevada? Weighing Upfront Costs vs Long-Term Returns

Homeowners evaluating solar in Las Vegas or North Las Vegas frequently encounter proposals that emphasize leases or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). A primary decision is whether to purchase the system or enter a lease or PPA. Lease and PPA options are often presented with low or zero upfront costs. This analysis examines the financial outcomes

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Nevada homeowner checking the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) registry on laptop with solar panels in background.

What to Look for on the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) Registry: Vetting Your Solar Builder to Confirm Active, Bonded C-2 (Electrical) Credentials

Before signing a solar contract in Las Vegas or North Las Vegas, verify the company on the official Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) registry. This free public resource confirms licensing status and helps identify contractors that lack the required credentials. The following guide explains how to use the registry, why a C-2 Electrical classification is

What to Look for on the Nevada State Contractors Board (NSCB) Registry: Vetting Your Solar Builder to Confirm Active, Bonded C-2 (Electrical) Credentials Read More »

A solar technician answering 20 questions to ask a Nevada solar Installer.

20 Questions to Ask a Nevada Solar Installer (Before Giving Them a Dime)

Homeowners seeking to reduce summer NV Energy bills should confirm an installer’s qualifications before signing a contract. Poor workmanship can result in roof leaks, permitting delays, and other costly problems. The following checklist provides 20 questions designed for Las Vegas and North Las Vegas homeowners. These questions help verify that a company understands Clark County

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Image illustrating Nevada's 100% Solar Property Tax Exemption.

Nevada’s Secret Solar Perk: Boost Your Home’s Value, Keep Your Taxes Exactly the Same With 100% Solar Property Tax Exemption

One of the most valuable—and least discussed—advantages of installing solar in Nevada is the state’s 100 percent property-tax exemption. In most cases, a substantial home improvement raises the county’s assessed value and therefore the annual tax bill. A renovated kitchen or a new pool typically produces this result. Solar is treated differently. Under Nevada law,

Nevada’s Secret Solar Perk: Boost Your Home’s Value, Keep Your Taxes Exactly the Same With 100% Solar Property Tax Exemption Read More »

Houses in Las Vegas, NV that understand how Time-of-Use rates affect solar ROI in Southern Nevada.

How Time-of-Use Rates Affect Solar ROI in Southern Nevada – Strategies to Maximize Credits

Long-term solar economics for a Las Vegas or North Las Vegas residence depend on the interaction between on-site generation and the local utility’s time-varying rates. The earlier practice of installing an array and leaving its output unadjusted for rate structure no longer captures the available value. The hours in which air-conditioning, electric-vehicle charging, and other

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Home battery system protecting a Las Vegas home during the 6:01 PM to 9:00 PM on-peak window.

Surviving NV Energy’s 6:01 PM to 9:00 PM On-Peak Window: How Home Batteries Protect You During the Most Expensive Hours of the Summer

From June 1 through September 30, NV Energy’s optional residential time-of-use plan applies higher summer on-peak rates from 6:01 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. each day and during this window, household demand often remains elevated while solar production declines. Published rates for the optional TOU plan place on-peak energy in the mid-to-high 40¢/kWh range, compared with

Surviving NV Energy’s 6:01 PM to 9:00 PM On-Peak Window: How Home Batteries Protect You During the Most Expensive Hours of the Summer Read More »

A tornado of caliche dust over solar panels in the mojave desert.

The Caliche Dust Tax: How Much Energy is the Mojave Desert Stealing From You?

Dust accumulation can reduce the output of solar panels in the Las Vegas area. Fine desert dust, including caliche particles, tends to settle on panel surfaces and can limit sunlight absorption. During the summer months, this buildup may lower production by a noticeable amount. The following sections examine the factors that contribute to soiling losses

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Solar panels with hail damage on a Las Vegas roof during a storm with insurance documents.

Weathering the Storm: Your No-Stress Guide to Solar Repair & Insurance Claims (Nevada 2026)

Summer weather in Las Vegas and North Las Vegas can be hard on roofs. Monsoon rain, hail, and high winds all create risk, and solar panels add another layer of concern after a storm. If you suspect damage, the next steps matter for both safety and any insurance claim. This guide covers how to check

Weathering the Storm: Your No-Stress Guide to Solar Repair & Insurance Claims (Nevada 2026) Read More »

A North Las Vegas homeowner who understood Nevada SB 440 and was able to install solar panels in her HOA community.

HOA vs. Solar: Understanding Nevada SB 440 & Your Rights

If you live in a Las Vegas or North Las Vegas neighborhood with an HOA, you may have heard stories of associations restricting or delaying solar installations. Nevada law limits what an HOA can do. Under NRS 278.0208 (strengthened by SB 440), homeowners have specific protections for installing solar. Here’s what the law allows, what

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Las Vegas homeowner installing her solar system per a DIY solar installation checklist.

Complete DIY Solar Installation Checklist for North Las Vegas Permitting & Codes 2026

Thinking about installing solar panels yourself in North Las Vegas? A DIY approach can lower the cost, but Clark County has strict permitting and building code requirements. Missing a step can lead to failed inspections, safety issues, or the need to redo work. This checklist walks through the process from initial design to final approval.

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