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he picturesque coastal city in Southern California is known for its near-perfect weather and year-round sunshine. With an average of 266 sunny days per year, it's no surprise that this SoCal metropolis is a top destination for photovoltaic systems. This article will explore the world of solar panels and the best providers in the area, revealing why this city is quickly becoming one of the top spots for photovoltaic technology. So, whether you're a local looking to make the switch to solar or simply curious about the benefits of renewable energy, read on to discover more about going solar in San Diego.
San Diego solar panels: A wise investment?
If you're an SD resident, you may be wondering whether installing solar panels is a smart financial move. Let's take a closer look at why solar could be an excellent investment for your home.
Firstly, the city is known for its ample sunshine, with the sun shining here 69 percent of the time. This is excellent news for homeowners considering solar panels, as more sunshine means more power generation. With a solar system installed on your roof, you can power your home with clean, renewable energy and store excess energy in your battery for later use.
Secondly, California boasts some of the country's highest electricity rates, and San Diego is no exception. Residents of the Golden State typically spend a hefty $210 on electricity every month, which amounts to a yearly expense of $2,520 - 17% more than the national average of $2,158. It's no wonder homeowners are feeling the pinch. On the flip side, the cost of solar in California has plummeted by 53% in the past ten years, rendering solar energy a cheaper alternative than ever. If homeowners opt for solar, they can slash their electricity expenses by a considerable amount and secure themselves lower rates for the long haul.
Lastly, the power grid in California is under a lot of strain, which means blackouts are becoming increasingly common. Fortunately, homeowners can stay one step ahead of the game by installing a solar battery backup system. By harnessing the sun's energy during the day and storing it for use at night or during blackouts, you'll never be left in the dark again!
How much does it cost to set up solar panels in San Diego?
The price tag of San Diego solar panels varies depending on several factors, and there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, the size of the system plays a major role in determining the cost - generally speaking, the larger the system, the higher the price tag. However, a bigger system can also generate more electricity, which can translate into bigger long-term savings on your electricity bills. Another factor to consider is the type of solar panels used. There are various options available, including monocrystalline, polycrystalline, and thin-film panels, and each comes with its own unique cost and efficiency considerations. The complexity of the installation process can also impact the cost, with more intricate setups tending to be more expensive.
To give you an idea of the average price of solar panels in San Diego, a 6 kW system may cost anywhere from $15,350 to $20,769, with the average gross price for solar being $18,060, based on a rate of $3.01 per watt.
However, it's worth noting that there are government incentives to make the installation cost more affordable for San Diego residents. One such incentive is the solar investment tax credit, which can cover 30% of the cost of setting up new clean energy property in your home. For instance, if your installation is worth $18,000, you'll end up paying only $12,600 with this incentive. Plus, thanks to California's Active Solar Energy System Exclusion, you won't have to worry about paying any extra property tax on your rooftop solar system if it's activated before January 1, 2025.
The best solar providers in SD
- SunPower: This solar company has been operating for over three decades, providing a range of services from solar panel installation to system monitoring, energy audits, and backup battery integration. Their panels have some of the industry's highest efficiency ratings, ranging from 20.9% to 22.8%. While their costs are slightly higher compared to other San Diego solar installers, SunPower provides flexible payment options, including in-house loan financing, to help customers invest in solar power.
- Sunrun: The company specializes in creating custom solar systems that suit your energy needs and budget. Their systems are backed by comprehensive warranties, including a 10- to 25-year product and a 25-year performance warranty. Sunrun offers two solar leasing options, which make it more affordable for homeowners to go solar. Their service package includes panel monitoring, proactive maintenance, and an insurance policy. Although their website doesn't provide transparent pricing, Sunrun's technicians can provide you with precise estimates during virtual or in-person consultations.
- Momentum Solar: Momentum is an excellent option for anyone who wants to switch to solar power but needs assistance getting started. They provide a concierge service that takes care of all necessary permits and helps customers enroll in government savings programs, making the transition seamless. Momentum also stands out from the competition with its exclusive in-house solar battery option, currently only accessible to Californians. However, their in-house approach may come at a slightly higher cost than other companies, although it guarantees excellent service.
- Semper Solaris: Established in 2012, this local company offers a wide array of services, including solar panel installations, battery storage, roofing, and HVAC services. Semper delivers pocket-friendly pricing and uses equipment from reputable brands. Additionally, the company grants discounts to veterans and first responders and even rewards customers who refer new clients with a $500 bonus. As an added bonus, they extend their services to solar maintenance and collaborate with the Home Energy Renovation Opportunity program to simplify financing. While the provider may have a less impressive warranty than some competitors, it offers a range of discounts and services to ensure that customers are satisfied with their PV systems.
Interested in powering your San Diego property with solar energy? Dive into our guide on San Diego Solar Panels to discover everything you need to know about solar installations in the area. Additionally, explore the top solar panel companies serving San Diego in our article on Best Solar Panel Companies in San Diego.
Watch this video to know is solar really worth it in SD
Sources:
https://www.energysage.com/local-data/
Key takeaways
San Diego, with its 266 sunny days per year, is becoming a hotspot for solar panels, offering an average of 69% sunlight.
Solar panels in San Diego make financial sense, given the city's high electricity rates; residents spend $210/month, 17% above the national average.
The cost of solar in California has dropped by 53% in the last decade, making solar installations an economical choice for residents to cut electricity expenses.
The average cost for a 6 kW solar system in San Diego ranges from $15,350 to $20,769, with a gross average of $18,060, supported by government incentives.
SunPower, Sunrun, Momentum Solar, and Semper Solaris are among the top solar providers in San Diego, offering high-efficiency panels, custom systems, concierge services, and veteran discounts.
Government incentives like the solar investment tax credit and California's Active Solar Energy System Exclusion make solar installations more affordable for residents.
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