The Hidden Cost of Rising Power Bills: 32% Higher Since 2014

From 2014 to 2024, Americans have seen their electric bills climb 32%, outpacing general inflation and adding significant strain to household budgets.

But this isn’t a uniform story across the nation—California has felt this burden more heavily. A Legislative Analyst’s Office report reveals that residential electricity rates in California—especially for investor-owned utilities—have nearly doubled over the past decade, far above the national average. These escalating costs stem from a combination of:

• Mounting wildfire prevention expenses and grid infrastructure upgrades;
• The transition to renewable energy and associated operational costs;
• High import reliance and geographic challenges in energy distribution.

For homeowners, especially those served by IOUs like PG&E, SCE, or SDG&E, these increases have significantly altered the cost of powering daily life.

What's the Real Impact on Your Monthly Budget?

To illustrate the practical effect: at an average usage of 600 kWh per month, PG&E customers could see their bills rise by approximately $152 per month thanks to rate hikes since 2014. That adds up to nearly $1,800 extra annually—a substantial strain for many households.

These rising rates also cloud the financial outlook for households converting to all-electric homes—recently, one homeowner in Northern California found her utility bills nearly doubled post-conversion, despite leveraging federal and state rebates.

How Solar Can Put You Back in Control

Installing rooftop solar is one of the most effective ways California homeowners can shield themselves from rising energy costs:

• A typical 5.6 kW solar system in California can offset 100% of your electricity use, with upfront costs averaging about $13,000 before incentives.
• With utility rates expected to climb roughly 5.9% annually, solar can deliver remarkable savings: around $3,000 in the first year, $17,100 over five years, $39,900 over ten years, and $110,600 over 20 years.
• Even those unable to install panels—renters, for example—can save 5–15% annually through community solar subscriptions.

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Go Solar

1. Reverse escalating bills: Lock in stable energy costs and reduce or even eliminate your electricity bill for decades.
2. Beat inflation: With continued upward pressure on utility rates, solar offers protection—especially when paired with battery storage.
3. Maximize available incentives: With federal solar tax credits potentially expiring, acting now can offer significant financial leverage.

How US Power Can Help You Save—and Go Solar—Today

At US Power, we're committed to helping California homeowners navigate these challenges with smart, effective solar solutions:

• Zero-money-down solar installations: You can start saving right away with no upfront cost.
• Tailored systems for your home: We design solar arrays based on your energy use, roof, and budget—optimizing your lifetime savings.
• Access to incentives: Our team ensures you benefit from the 30% federal solar tax credit and any available local or state rebates.
• Solar + battery packages: Add energy storage to your system to enhance savings, resilience, and independence from utility fluctuations.
• Local expertise, trusted service: As a trusted provider in California, US Power combines high-quality components with reliable installation.