The San Francisco Bay Area is one of the best places in the country to go solar. There’s plenty of sunshine, high utility rates, and strong community support for clean energy. But if you’re like most homeowners, you probably have a few questions before making the switch.
We’ve gathered the most commonly searched questions about solar in the Bay Area and answered them below. Whether you're in Oakland, Berkeley, San Jose, or right in San Francisco, this FAQ will help you make an informed decision.
How Much Do Solar Panels Cost in the San Francisco Bay Area?
The cost of going solar can vary depending on several factors, including your home’s size, energy usage, roof design, and equipment choices. For photovoltaic (PV) systems only, prices generally range from $3.50-$4.50 per watt.
Exact pricing is determined after a site evaluation and system design, so the best way to understand costs for your home is to get a personalized proposal.
Is My Roof Suitable for Solar?
A qualified installer will assess:
- Sun exposure (south- and west-facing roofs are ideal)
- Shade from trees or neighboring buildings
- Roof condition and material
- Available space for panels
Even if your roof isn’t ideal, ground-mounted systems or installing on an existing shade structure may be an option.
How Much Can I Save on My PG&E Bill?
Savings vary, but many Bay Area homeowners can reduce their electric bills by 50-75%, especially when using solar alongside battery storage. Your actual savings will depend on:
- System size and design
- Your electricity usage patterns
- PG&E's time-of-use (TOU) rates
- Whether you store and use your solar energy efficiently
Solar helps provide long-term protection against rising energy costs.
Will My Solar Work During Power Outages?
Not unless you have a battery backup system. Standard solar systems are grid-tied and shut off during outages to protect utility workers.
If you want backup power during PG&E outages or Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS), you’ll need to install a battery system to keep key appliances running.
How Long Does Installation Take?
The solar process includes several key stages:
- Site evaluation and proposal
- System design and contract
- Permitting and utility approvals
- Installation
- Inspection and permission to operate
Altogether, the typical process can take about 3-4 months from start to finish, depending on your city and utility.
What Financing Options Do I Have?
Most homeowners choose one of the following:
- Cash purchase
- Solar loan (5-20 years, often with $0 down)
- Leases or PPAs (you pay for power instead of the system)
A reputable solar installer can walk you through the options to find one that fits your budget and goals.
What Maintenance Is Required?
Solar panels are low maintenance. Occasional cleaning is helpful, especially if you notice buildup from dust, leaves, or birds.
Our systems include:
- Monitoring apps to check performance
- Long-term equipment warranties (often 25 years for panels)
What Is Net Metering (Now Net Billing) and How Does It Work?
Under California’s Net Billing (NEM 3.0) policy:
- You use your solar energy first
- Extra electricity goes back to the grid
- You receive a credit based on the utility’s “avoided cost” rates
To maximize savings under this policy, many homeowners now install a battery to store solar power and use it during peak evening hours when electricity is more expensive.
Do I Need Permits to Install Solar in the Bay Area?
Yes. Your installer will usually:
- Submit and manage permit applications with your local city or county
- Coordinate with PG&E or your electricity provider
- Handle inspections and final utility approval
Permit timelines vary by location, San Francisco tends to take longer than other Bay Area cities.
How Do I Choose a Local Solar Installer?
Look for:
- Licensed, certified professionals (check CSLB and NABCEP credentials)
- Local experience (especially with city permitting and PG&E processes)
- Verified customer reviews
- Clear communication and strong workmanship warranties
Bonus tip: Ask if they’ve installed systems in your neighborhood. Local knowledge makes a big difference.
Final Thoughts: Is Solar Still Worth It in the Bay Area?
Yes.
With high utility rates, long-term savings potential, and growing interest in grid independence, solar remains a smart investment for Bay Area homeowners. Whether your goal is reducing electric bills, increasing your home’s resilience, or shrinking your carbon footprint, solar delivers real value.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're thinking about going solar in San Francisco, Oakland, Berkeley, Vallejo or anywhere in the Bay Area, talk to a local, experienced installer who understands your utility, your roof, and your city’s permitting process.
Still have questions? We’re happy to help.
Contact Sun Light & Power for a personalized solar assessment.
