Best Solar Companies in San Diego, CA

5.7 hrs/day

Peak Sun Hours

$0.36/kWh

Electricity Rate

$13,800

Avg. System Cost (6kW)

5 years

Payback Period

$2,800

Annual Savings

San Diego has some of the highest electricity rates in the nation, with SDG&E customers paying an average of $0.36/kWh. This makes solar panels an especially compelling investment, as the savings from displacing expensive grid electricity are substantial.

While California's NEM 3.0 reduced the value of exported solar energy compared to NEM 2.0, SDG&E's extremely high retail rates mean that self-consumed solar electricity is worth far more than in most markets. Pairing solar with battery storage maximizes savings by shifting usage to capture the highest time-of-use rate periods.

With annual savings averaging $2,800 and a typical payback period of just 5 years, San Diego remains one of the best cities in the country for residential solar ROI. The mild, sunny climate ensures consistent production year-round.

Solar Installers in San Diego

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Solar Incentives in San Diego, CA

Federal

30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

Deduct 30% of your total solar installation cost from your federal taxes. Available through 2032.

Utility

San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) - Net Billing (NEM 3.0) Net Metering

Earn credits for excess solar energy sent back to the grid through San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E).

Local

Federal 30% Investment Tax Credit - applies to total solar and battery installation cost

Local

California SGIP - Self-Generation Incentive Program rebates for battery storage

Local

SDG&E time-of-use optimization - solar with battery maximizes savings during peak rates

Portable Solar for San Diego Residents

Not ready for a full installation? Start small with portable solar panels perfect for apartments, balconies, and outdoor use.

Jackery SolarSaga 100W Portable Solar Panel
portable

Jackery SolarSaga 100W Portable Solar Panel

$249.99
4.6(8,742)|100W
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BLUETTI PV200 200W Foldable Solar Panel
portable

BLUETTI PV200 200W Foldable Solar Panel

$449.99
4.5(3,218)|200W
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Renogy 400W Balcony Solar Kit with Microinverter
balcony

Renogy 400W Balcony Solar Kit with Microinverter

$699.99
4.3(1,456)|400W
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Solar FAQ for San Diego