Solar Frequently Asked Questions
The Axia by Qcells program through US Power is one of the most asked-about solar offerings in California.
Here are straightforward answers to the questions we hear every day. Call (818) 650-8010 if you want to talk through your specific situation.
What is Axia by Qcells?
Axia is Hanwha QCELLS’ authorized factory-direct residential solar program, offered exclusively through a certified network of vetted installer partners — of which US Power is one in California. Rather than selling through distributors, Qcells works directly with Axia partners to give homeowners access to factory-direct pricing and manufacturer-backed warranties. Think of Axia as Qcells’ quality-assured channel for California homeowners who want the best panel on the market without paying distributor markups.
What makes Qcells panels different from other solar brands?
Qcells manufactures panels using Q.ANTUM technology — a proprietary cell design that improves efficiency in partial shading, high heat, and low-light conditions. In Southern California, where summer temperatures push panel surfaces past 120–130°F, Q.ANTUM’s thermal performance maintains higher output compared to conventional monocrystalline panels. Qcells has held a Tier-1 Bloomberg NEF rating for over a decade, making them one of the most recognized and bankable panel manufacturers in the world. They’re also the #1-selling residential panel brand in the US.
Are Qcells panels made in the USA?
Yes. Panels installed through the Axia program by US Power are assembled at Hanwha QCELLS’ facility in Dalton, Georgia — the largest solar manufacturing plant in the Western Hemisphere. American assembly means consistent quality control and a stable supply chain, without the lead times or import variability of overseas-only production.
How does factory-direct Qcells pricing actually work?
Standard solar sales involve at least one distributor between the manufacturer and the homeowner — each adding margin. The Axia program eliminates that step. US Power sources panels directly from the Qcells factory and passes the savings to you. On a typical 8kW system, factory-direct pricing can mean $2,000–$5,000 less than what you’d pay from a distributor-sourced installer, without any reduction in panel quality or warranty coverage. Your Axia quote reflects actual wholesale pricing.
How do I verify my installer is a real authorized Qcells partner?
Look for the official “Axia Authorized Sales Partner” designation — which US Power displays on all materials. This badge means Qcells has vetted the installer for installation quality, customer service standards, and warranty fulfillment capability. Unauthorized installers may sell Qcells-branded panels at higher cost with no manufacturer-backed installation warranty. Always confirm your installer carries the Axia Authorized designation before signing.
What warranty do Qcells panels come with through the Axia program?
Qcells panels installed through Axia come with a 25-year product warranty covering defects and degradation, plus a 25-year performance warranty guaranteeing at least 86% power output at year 25. These warranties are backed by Hanwha QCELLS — a $7.8 billion company with 30+ years of global solar manufacturing experience. US Power also provides a separate workmanship warranty on the installation itself. Ask your consultant for warranty documentation before signing.
Is solar worth it in California in 2026 without the federal tax credit?
Yes — and QCells factory-direct pricing makes it more viable than the industry average. California electricity rates run 30–32¢/kWh and have climbed more than 40% in the last five years. Even without the 30% federal residential ITC (which expired December 31, 2025), most Southern California homeowners save $100–$250 per month with a purchased system, with full payback in 7–10 years. For those preferring $0 down, solar leases and PPAs still benefit from the commercial ITC (Section 48E through 2027), which providers pass through as lower monthly rates. The right financing structure changes everything — your US Power consultant can model both options.
What California solar incentives are still available in 2026?
Several meaningful incentives remain active: California’s property tax exclusion means your QCells system won’t increase your property taxes despite adding 3–4% to your home value. The SGIP program provides battery storage rebates, with enhanced amounts for high-fire-risk areas and low-income households. Net Billing (NEM 3.0) provides grid export credits. PACE financing enables $0-down solar with repayment through your property tax bill. Solar lease and PPA providers can pass commercial ITC (Section 48E) savings through to homeowners in the form of lower monthly rates.
How long does a Qcells installation take with US Power?
The full timeline from quote to power-on typically runs 6–10 weeks, with most of that time spent on permitting and utility interconnection paperwork — not the actual installation. The physical installation by Axia-trained crews typically takes 1–2 days for a standard residential system. US Power manages the entire process: permitting, HOA coordination (if applicable), installation scheduling, and utility interconnection. You don’t have to chase a single piece of paperwork.
What areas does US Power serve for Qcells installation?
US Power serves homeowners throughout Southern California, including Los Angeles County, Orange County, Riverside County, San Bernardino County, Ventura County, and surrounding areas. Cities include Los Angeles, Encino, Pasadena, Glendale, Sherman Oaks, Burbank, Long Beach, Irvine, Anaheim, Riverside, and many more. Visit the US Power’s service areas page for the full list.
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