September 11, 2025
And How Solar, Batteries & Heat Pumps Can Help
If you're a homeowner in Marin, Sonoma, Napa, or the greater
North Bay, you've likely felt the squeeze of rising PG&E gas and
electric rates. California utility costs have surged in recent years, and
PG&E now charges some of the highest rates in the country.
The question many families are asking: Why are PG&E
bills so high — and what can we do about it?
Why PG&E Rates Keep Climbing
1. Liability & Wildfire Costs
PG&E's negligence has caused some of California's most destructive
wildfires, resulting in billions in lawsuits and settlements. Instead of
absorbing these costs, PG&E passes them directly to customers, leaving
North Bay residents footing the bill for the utility's mistakes. Check out our blog for details.
2. Infrastructure Upgrades
To prevent future disasters, PG&E is spending billions burying power lines
and hardening its outdated grid. While necessary, these investments are also
pushed onto ratepayers, making energy in the North Bay some of the most
expensive in the nation.
3. Rising Energy Demand
Artificial intelligence (AI), data centers, and new technologies consume
massive amounts of electricity. This growing demand continues to strain the
grid and drive up rates.
4. Higher Gas Prices Too
It's not just electricity. PG&E customers are also paying more for natural
gas — which means heating, hot water, and cooking costs are climbing alongside
electric bills.
How Rising Bills Impact North Bay Homeowners
The average household is facing double-digit increases year after year on both gas and electric bills. With time-of-use pricing, evening electricity can cost nearly twice as much as daytime power, while gas rate hikes make winter heating especially expensive.
Solar, Batteries & Heat Pumps: The Smarter Solution
North Bay homeowners don't have to remain at PG&E's
mercy. By combining solar panels, battery storage, and efficient electric heat
pumps, you can take control of your energy future.
- Generate
Clean Solar Power — Offset PG&E electricity costs with your own
rooftop system.
- Store
Energy with Batteries — Use stored solar at night when PG&E
charges peak rates.
- Switch
to Heat Pump Heating & Cooling — Ditch expensive natural gas and
heat your home efficiently with electricity you generate yourself.
- Stay Resilient in Outages — Batteries keep your home powered during PG&E shutoffs.
Why Now Is the Best Time to Act
PG&E electric and gas rates are projected to climb even higher in the years ahead
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The cost of solar, batteries, and heat pumps has never been more affordable and accessible
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Homeowners can lock in long-term savings and gain independence from PG&E's unpredictable bills
Final Thoughts
PG&E's rising gas and electric rates — fueled by
wildfire liabilities, lawsuits, and costly grid upgrades — are putting a strain
on North Bay families. But with solar panels, battery backup, and efficient
heat pumps, you can cut your bills, protect your home from outages, and
free yourself from PG&E's never-ending rate hikes.
๐ Ready to take control? Contact
SolarCraft today for a free consultation and discover how much you can
save.
