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
We're building our directory for San Diego
Know a great solar company in San Diego? Help us grow this directory by suggesting a company.
Solar Incentives in San Diego, CA
30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
Deduct 30% of your total solar installation cost from your federal taxes. Available through 2032.
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).
Federal 30% Investment Tax Credit - applies to total solar and battery installation cost
California SGIP - Self-Generation Incentive Program rebates for battery storage
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.


