PG&E Service Area · San Francisco County
Solar Panels in San Francisco, CA
San Francisco is a dense urban city with foggy coastal climate and varied microclimates. Foggy western neighborhoods near the ocean see less sun, while inland areas like the Mission, Noe Valley, and Potrero Hill get stronger solar production. High PG&E rates and environmental values make solar viable for suitable properties. Homeowners in San Francisco on PG&E pay an estimated $220/mo in electricity — solar can cut that dramatically. Get a free, no-obligation quote from a licensed local installer today.
* Electricity bill figures are regional estimates only, not guarantees.
Solar in San Francisco — Local Estimates
These are illustrative regional estimates — not guarantees. Your actual savings depend on usage, roof orientation, shading, system size, and future utility rate changes.
- Avg monthly bill*
- $220
- Typical system size*
- 7.5 kW
- Est. year-1 savings*
- $1800
- Est. payback period*
- 7 yrs
Why Go Solar in San Francisco?
- ●High sun exposure: San Francisco averages an estimated 4.9 peak sun hours per day — strong solar production potential year-round.
- ●High PG&E rates: PG&E customers pay an estimated $0.44/kWh, making solar economics strong. PG&E serves all of San Francisco with residential rates averaging $0.44/kWh, among the highest in California. While the city's foggy coastal climate and dense urban environment present solar challenges, high utility costs and strong environmental values make solar viable for suitable properties.
- ●Federal tax credit: The 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) is currently available for systems installed on primary residences. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
- ●Home value: Studies suggest homes with owned solar systems sell for more than comparable homes without — though results vary by market.
Local Details for San Francisco
Utility Rate
PG&E: Estimated $0.44/kWh residential rate. PG&E serves all of San Francisco with residential rates averaging $0.44/kWh, among the highest in California. While the city's foggy coastal climate and dense urban environment present solar challenges, high utility costs and strong environmental values make solar viable for suitable properties.
Permit Office
San Francisco Department of Building Inspection (City and County of San Francisco). Typical turnaround: 3-5 weeks. San Francisco processes solar permits through the Department of Building Inspection with typical 3-5 week turnaround. The city has strict building codes and seismic requirements. SolarAPP+ is available for eligible systems to expedite approval.
Climate Zone
Zone 3 (Coastal): San Francisco has a unique foggy coastal microclimate with cool summers, mild winters, and persistent marine layer influence. The city experiences lower solar production than inland areas, but south-facing rooftops and properties in sunnier neighborhoods like the Mission and Noe Valley still achieve viable solar output.
Frequently Asked Questions — San Francisco
Do I need a permit for solar in San Francisco?
Yes. San Francisco requires permits through the Department of Building Inspection with typical 3-5 week turnaround. SolarAPP+ can expedite eligible systems. Multi-unit buildings may need HOA approval. Your solar installer handles all permitting and coordinates inspections.
Is off-grid solar worth it in foggy San Francisco?
It depends on location and roof orientation. Foggy western neighborhoods see lower production, but sunnier areas like the Mission and Noe Valley get an estimated 4.9 peak sun hours daily. PG&E rates at $0.44/kWh make solar financially viable on south-facing roofs in sunnier microclimates. A site assessment determines feasibility.
How much sun does San Francisco get for solar?
San Francisco averages an estimated 4.9 peak sun hours per day citywide, with significant variation by neighborhood. Western areas near the ocean are foggier; eastern and southern neighborhoods like the Mission, Potrero, and Noe Valley see more sun. South-facing roofs in sunnier areas achieve viable solar production despite the fog.
How It Works
- 1Submit your info: Fill out the quick form — takes under 2 minutes.
- 2Get matched: We share your request with one licensed solar contractor serving San Francisco.
- 3Free consultation: Your contractor contacts you to assess your home and provide a no-obligation quote.
- 4Go solar: If the numbers work, move forward on your timeline — no pressure.