City guides
What does solar cost in each North County city?
| City | Avg cost/W | Cash payback | 25-yr savings | Utility |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vista | $2.47/W | 9.5 yrs | $111,600 | SDG&E |
| Carlsbad | $2.47/W | 7.9 yrs | $123,900 | SDG&E |
Guides for Oceanside, San Marcos, Escondido, and Encinitas are in progress. All North County cities share SDG&E delivery rates and SDCP battery rebate eligibility, so the Vista and Carlsbad numbers are representative for neighboring cities.
Why North County
Why is North County a strong solar market in 2026?
The rates. SDG&E's 4–9 PM peak rates of $0.55–$0.70/kWh are the highest of any major U.S. utility. Solar here offsets premium-priced power, which is what keeps payback at 9–10 years (7–8 with SDCP battery rebates) even after the federal credit's expiration.
The sun. 5.6 peak sun hours per day, minimal cloud losses, and mild temperatures that keep panels operating efficiently year-round.
The deadline. California's property tax exclusion expires for systems installed after December 31, 2026. With 6–12 week installation timelines, North County homeowners who want it locked in permanently should start by early fall.