Solar Panel Cost Guide in San Diego, TX (2023 Update)
- San Diego Solar Installation Cost: $13,614
- 25-Year Savings: $23,808
- Payback Period: 9.1 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in San Diego
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in San Diego.
In San Diego, solar panels cost about 2.69 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 7.2-kW system would cost about $13,614 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. With typical savings of about $20,000 on utility bills over 20 years, many homeowners in San Diego find installing solar panels has a decent ROI.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in San Diego
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,117 |
| 3 years | $-9,123 |
| 5 years | $-6,130 |
| 7 years | $-3,136 |
| 9 years | $-142 |
| 11 years | $2,852 |
| 13 years | $5,846 |
| 15 years | $8,839 |
| 17 years | $11,833 |
| 19 years | $14,827 |
| 21 years | $17,821 |
| 23 years | $20,815 |
| 25 years | $23,808 |
Top Solar Installers in San Diego
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel company since figuring out how to install solar panels by yourself can be challenging. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and component replacements.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in San Diego
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in San Diego
For many San Diego homeowners, the decision to install solar panels comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in San Diego, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The brand and type of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in San Diego have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining key cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of sustainable energy solutions in San Diego, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in San Diego know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.80 | $11,750 | $19,308 | 9.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.74 | $15,365 | $26,046 | 9.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.69 | $18,830 | $32,934 | 9.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.64 | $22,144 | $39,972 | 8.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.58 | $25,308 | $47,162 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.53 | $28,320 | $54,502 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.47 | $31,182 | $61,992 | 8.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.42 | $33,894 | $69,634 | 8.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you opt for will influence not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, such as:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's San Diego, TX Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in San Diego?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,450 for a 5-kW system and $26,900 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to bear in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Do solar panels increase the value of your home?
Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in San Diego is currently $35,900, so you could be looking at a value of about $1,472 more than houses without a solar system. The specific figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in San Diego is a fruitful investment.
How long do solar panels last in San Diego?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.