Solar Panel Cost in California (2026)
The average solar panel installation in California costs $2.80 per watt, or about $16,800 for a typical 6kW residential system before state and local incentives. Over 25 years, homeowners in California can expect to save an estimated $50,000, with a payback period of around 5 years.
$2.80
Cost per Watt
$16,800
Avg System Cost
5 years
Payback Period
$50,000
25-Year Savings
Solar Panel Costs in California
Average cost per watt: $2.80 | Payback period: 5 years
| System Size | Estimated Cost | Est. 25-Year Savings |
|---|---|---|
| 4 kW | $11,200 | $33,333 |
| 6 kW | $16,800 | $50,000 |
| 8 kW | $22,400 | $66,667 |
| 10 kW | $28,000 | $83,333 |
| 12 kW | $33,600 | $100,000 |
Solar Savings in California
California residents currently pay an average of $28.0 cents/kWh for electricity. This is above the national average of 16 cents/kWh, making solar an especially attractive investment in California.
California offers net metering, which means you earn credits on your electricity bill for any excess solar energy you send back to the grid. This can significantly reduce or even eliminate your electricity bill.
With an average of 5.8 peak sun hours per day, California receives excellent solar irradiance, supporting strong energy production throughout the year.
Solar Cost FAQs for California
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