CaliforniaSolar Panel Costs & Savings
California averages 5.8 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 5.5 years. Homeowners can save $58,200 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
5.8 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$19,800
before incentives
Payback Period
5.5 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$58,200
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in California
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($3.3/W) | $19,800 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,940 |
| Net Cost | $13,860 |
Net Metering
Full Net Metering
Electricity Rate
31.22¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$179/mo
Solar Incentives in California
California Net Energy Metering (NEM 3.0)
California's NEM 3.0 credits solar exports at time-of-use rates. Paired with battery storage, homeowners can maximize savings.
Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP)
SGIP provides incentives for installing energy storage systems paired with solar panels.
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal ITC allows homeowners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from federal taxes. Available for systems installed through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in California
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 92201 | Indio | 6.4 hrs | $3,597 | 3.9 yrs |
| 92301 | Adelanto | 6.2 hrs | $3,484 | 4 yrs |
| 93301 | Bakersfield | 6.0 hrs | $3,372 | 4.2 yrs |
| 91701 | Rancho Cucamonga | 5.8 hrs | $3,259 | 4.3 yrs |
| 92501 | Riverside | 5.8 hrs | $3,259 | 4.3 yrs |
| 93701 | Fresno | 5.8 hrs | $3,259 | 4.3 yrs |
| 91001 | Altadena | 5.7 hrs | $3,203 | 4.4 yrs |
| 91101 | Pasadena | 5.7 hrs | $3,203 | 4.4 yrs |
| 92101 | San Diego | 5.7 hrs | $3,203 | 4.4 yrs |
| 90001 | Los Angeles | 5.6 hrs | $3,147 | 4.5 yrs |
| 90210 | Beverly Hills | 5.6 hrs | $3,147 | 4.5 yrs |
| 91301 | Agoura Hills | 5.6 hrs | $3,147 | 4.5 yrs |
| 91401 | Van Nuys | 5.6 hrs | $3,147 | 4.5 yrs |
| 91501 | Burbank | 5.6 hrs | $3,147 | 4.5 yrs |
| 91601 | North Hollywood | 5.6 hrs | $3,147 | 4.5 yrs |
| 93601 | Ahwahnee | 5.6 hrs | $3,147 | 4.5 yrs |
| 90401 | Santa Monica | 5.5 hrs | $3,091 | 4.6 yrs |
| 92602 | Irvine | 5.5 hrs | $3,091 | 4.6 yrs |
| 93001 | Ventura | 5.5 hrs | $3,091 | 4.6 yrs |
| 95301 | Atwater | 5.5 hrs | $3,091 | 4.6 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for California
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in California?
A typical 6kW solar system in California costs approximately $19,800 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($5,940), the net cost is approximately $13,860.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in California?
The average solar payback period in California is 5.5 years, faster than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does California have net metering?
California has full net metering. Homeowners receive full retail rate credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid.
How much sun does California get for solar?
California averages 5.8 peak sun hours per day, which is 1.3 hours above the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 12,702 kWh per year.
Was this data helpful?
Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA