Solar Panel Savings in Davis, CA
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Davis, California. Based on 6.3 peak sun hours/day and 24.7¢/kWh average electricity rate.
6.3
Peak Sun Hours/Day
24.7¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
4.7 yr
Payback Period
$54k
25-Year Savings
Davis Solar Overview
Calculate Your Davis Solar Savings
Davis average: $223/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$93,251
Monthly Savings
$228
Federal Tax Credit
$5,346
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Davis | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $17,820 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,346 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $12,474 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.97/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Davis
Sun Hours vs National Average
Davis gets 40% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 265 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 61°F — moderate climate with good solar conditions
- Average roof size: 1,754 sq ft — enough for a 97-panel system
Davis Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $17,820 system, that's a $5,346 credit. Valid through 2032.
California State Incentives
California Solar Initiative; NEM 3.0 net billing.
Net Metering — Pacific Gas & Electric
Pacific Gas & Electric offers net metering in Davis. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Davis
4.6
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
76
Equivalent Trees Planted
1.0
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 11,038 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Davis, California
Davis, California receives an average of 6.3 peak sun hours per day, placing it among the best cities in the country for solar energy production. With electricity rates averaging 24.7¢ per kWh from Pacific Gas & Electric, well above the national average of 16¢/kWh, solar panels offer exceptional savings potential.
A typical 6kW solar system in Davis produces approximately 11,038 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $2,730 annually. The system pays for itself in about 4.6 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 20+ years of the system's warranty life.
Davis has a solar penetration rate of 1.1% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 156.9 (national average: 100) means higher electricity costs, which amplifies solar savings.
Other Cities in California
Anaheim, CA
Bakersfield, CA
Berkeley, CA
Chula Vista, CA
Clovis, CA
Concord, CA
Corona, CA
Daly City, CA
Downey, CA
El Cajon, CA
Elk Grove, CA
Escondido, CA
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Davis, CA?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Davis is approximately $17,820 before incentives ($2.97/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $12,474. California Solar Initiative; NEM 3.0 net billing.
How many peak sun hours does Davis get?
Davis, CA receives an average of 6.3 peak sun hours per day and approximately 265 sunny days per year. This is above the national average of 4.5 hours, making it an excellent location for solar energy.
What is the solar payback period in Davis?
The average solar payback period in Davis is approximately 4.7 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $54,051.
Does Davis have net metering?
Yes, Davis has access to net metering through Pacific Gas & Electric. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Davis, CA?
Absolutely. With a 4.7-year payback period and $54,051 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Davis. The 30% federal tax credit and above-average electricity rates help make solar financially attractive.