Solar FAQ - San Diego

Yes. Most San Diego homeowners qualify for $0 down solar through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) or lease. Instead of paying for the system upfront, you pay only for the electricity your panels produce at a rate lower than SDG&E. We review your bill and roof to determine which $0 down program you qualify for.

The cost of solar in San Diego depends on your home's energy usage, roof size, and whether you purchase, lease, or use a PPA. A typical 6kW system costs $15,000 to $25,000 before tax credits, or $0 down with a PPA. We provide a custom cost analysis during your free consultation.

Most San Diego homeowners reduce their monthly electricity costs by 60% to 100% after going solar. The exact savings depend on your current bill, system size, and whether you choose a PPA, lease, or purchase. We provide a detailed savings estimate based on your actual energy usage.

With a PPA (Power Purchase Agreement), the solar company owns the panels and you pay for the electricity they produce at a fixed rate. You get $0 down and no maintenance costs. When you buy panels, you own the system, get the federal tax credit, and pay nothing for electricity after the system pays for itself. PPA is simpler, buying saves more long-term. Learn more about PPA vs buying.

Net metering (NEM) lets you send excess solar energy back to the grid and get credit. San Diego is under NEM 3.0, which pays solar exporters about 75% less than NEM 2.0 did. This makes battery storage more valuable. We help you understand how NEM 3.0 affects your savings during your consultation.

Yes, solar is still worth it in San Diego. SDG&E rates are among the highest in the nation, so even with reduced export rates under NEM 3.0, the savings from offsetting your own usage are significant. Adding a battery like Tesla Powerwall maximizes savings by storing excess energy instead of exporting it at low rates.

The federal solar tax credit (ITC) is 30% of your total system cost through 2032. For a $20,000 system, that is a $6,000 credit on your federal taxes. This applies if you purchase your system. PPA and lease customers do not get the tax credit but also pay $0 down.

Quality solar panels last 25 to 30 years and come with warranties guaranteeing 80%+ production at year 25. Inverters typically last 10 to 15 years. With a PPA or lease, maintenance and repairs are covered at no cost to you.

Yes. Studies by Zillow and Lawrence Berkeley National Lab show homes with solar sell for 3-5% more than comparable homes without solar. In San Diego's competitive market, solar is a major selling point for energy-conscious buyers.

A battery is not required, but under NEM 3.0 it significantly increases savings. The Tesla Powerwall stores excess daytime energy for use at night instead of exporting it to SDG&E at low rates. A battery also provides backup power during outages. Learn more about Tesla Powerwall.