Which solar company should I compare?
Use the full company table to compare batteries, roofing, financing, local history and best-fit situations.
Open company comparison →San Diego solar homeowner guide
2026 San Diego Solar Energy Homeowner’s Guide
Compare solar companies, estimate project costs, understand SDG&E billing, evaluate batteries and prepare for installer quotes with source-linked information.
Public-domain photograph via Wikimedia CommonsMost-used research
Start with the decision you need to make
Learn how solar works in San Diego, compare installers, estimate costs, and understand what to expect before requesting quotes.
What might my project cost?
Estimate a system size and see a visual range for solar-only and battery configurations.
Use cost estimator →How will SDG&E credit my exports?
Understand time-of-use imports, hourly export credits and the role of battery storage.
Read billing guide →How do I compare two quotes?
Normalize cash price, financed principal, equipment, production and warranty responsibilities.
Read quote guide →Is a battery worth it?
Separate backup-power value from energy-management value and estimate runtime.
Research batteries →Is there a federal credit in 2026?
Current IRS guidance says the residential credit is unavailable after December 31, 2025.
Read current update →How solar billing works
From rooftop production to your SDG&E bill
1. Panels produce
Daylight is converted into household electricity.
2. Home uses energy
Onsite use can avoid a retail-priced grid purchase.
3. Battery charges
Optional storage saves energy for later use.
4. Surplus exports
Extra energy is sent to the grid.
5. Credits vary
Export value depends on the applicable hour and program.
Simplified educational diagram. Actual billing depends on rate plan, CCA status, export schedule and account details.
Important 2026 tax update
Current IRS guidance states that the Residential Clean Energy Credit is not available for property placed in service after December 31, 2025. A 2026 proposal should not automatically subtract a 30% homeowner credit without current, project-specific support.
Review the official-source explanation →Personalized comparison
Not sure which company fits your home?
Enter your electric bill, battery interest, timeline, and priorities to see which companies align most closely with your project.