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The combination of high energy bills and lots of sun has made Los Angeles a prime location for solar energy. The market for solar has increased exponentially in recent years, and, according to NC Clean Energy Technology Center, the city has one of the highest returns on investment for these systems. In fact, people with solar can save about $100 per month on their utility costs. This guide explores the use of solar electricity in Los Angeles. Here you’ll find information on companies in the area that install these systems, the financial incentives that are available to fund these projects, and the policies that must be adhered to when installing solar systems.
4 Facts to Know About Solar in Los Angeles
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Los Angeles homeowners who install solar panels on their property can expect to get their investments back within six to nine years, according to The Center for Sustainable Energy.
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Los Angeles has more than 360 MWs of solar and wind installed, according to the LA mayor’s Sustainable City pLAn 2019 – that’s enough to power 100,000 homes.
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The Port of Los Angeles built a 1 MW rooftop solar system with a 2.6 MW battery storage system. The project was funded in part by $14.5 million from the California Air Resources Board. The Green Omni Terminal will be able to keep operating during grid power outages and will include zero-emission vehicles and cargo handling equipment.
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Hanover Company opened the “first solar-powered net-zero eco apartments” in Los Angeles in 2016. Part of a 263-unit complex, Hanover Olympic’s 20 “eco-green” apartments are each powered by 10 dedicated photovoltaic panels. As a result, tenants save about $100 per month.
Los Angeles is famous for its warm, sunny weather and while this is great for those who appreciate bathing suits and convertibles, it typically means additional air conditioning use. A/C is by far the most significant contributor to high energy consumption with a standard 5-ton central air system adding as much as 50 percent to an annual electric bill. In addition to higher usage, the actual rates are higher as well — the two largest LA-area utilities have rates well above the national average of about $0.13 per kWh. An LA resident using 10,000 kWh per year will pay roughly $0.18 per kWh with LADWP and $0.24 per kWh with SCE. With the cost of fully installed, financed solar at around $0.15 per kWh, there is ample room for savings.
IN-DEPTH: Solar in Los Angeles
According to Environment America Research and Policy Center, not only is Los Angeles a solar star — defined as a location that produced at least 50 watts of solar energy per person in 2019 — the City of Angels actually tops the list. That is not surprising considering that Los Angeles has been a leader in encouraging renewable energy use among its residents and over 150 MW of solar capacity has been installed since 2016. “The LA solar market is among the most competitive in the country with the highest number of solar installers per square mile of any city,” according to Adondakis. “This is great for consumers who will find plenty of choices and very competitive pricing.”
Electricity prices
Residents in Los Angeles on average pay $0.19 per kWh for electricity, compared to the nearly $0.15 per kWh average for California and the $0.13 per kWh average for the country, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics and the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Considering that Los Angelinos live with a 71.7-degree average temperature that causes frequent air conditioner use, coupled with the median income being slightly less than the national average — $58,385 compared to $60,293 — solar energy generates a lot of welcome savings to residents’ utility bills.
One of the most important things to understand is how you are being charged for your utility power. For example, So Cal Edison uses a “tiered” bill rate, where they charge customers more per kilowatt-hour for energy over their “baseline.” So sometimes a customer’s best strategy is to get enough solar production to get them under their baseline. A customer who covers 25 percent of their usage, for example, may find that reduces their bill by 75 percent.
Photovoltaic potential
With 186 days of sunlight in Los Angeles, it’s not surprising that the city has high photovoltaic potential. In fact, according to the UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation, there are 1,481,814 sites in Los Angeles County — including residential, commercial, and industrial properties — that could accommodate solar systems. This means the county has the potential to create more than 19,000 megawatts of solar energy, and the City of Los Angeles itself accounts for 5,500 of that figure.
Luckily, Los Angeles County has made it easier for homeowners and business owners to start determining if their properties are right for solar energy with its handy Solar Map and Green Planning Tool. Just type in an address and you’ll get an idea of the photovoltaic potential of that site. But remember that these tools aren’t perfect. So if your rooftop doesn’t show as prime for solar, it still could be worthwhile to have a solar contractor take a look and see if creative planning could save you some energy dollars.
Policies & incentives
Just as with other types of home improvements, those who want to have solar panels added to their property must adhere to the building codes set forth by the city. For example, the Los Angeles’ Municipal Code, Height of Building or Structures guidelines mandate that solar panels not exceed three feet above a building’s roof.
Although residents who want solar energy in their homes deal with some governmental red tape that can be a hassle when building a system, they can also take advantage of government programs that make solar more affordable. The following are examples of some of these programs.
Policies and RebatesLos Angeles Department of Water and Power provides incentives to residential, commercial, and governmental customers with solar energy devices on their property.
Special property tax assessments are available to homeowners who add energy efficient systems — such as solar panels and artificial turf — to their homes.
Tax incentives are available to those who install solar energy devices on their properties before December 31, 2016.
Permitting & interconnection ease
People who want to have solar panels added to their property must get the proper permissions first. The City of Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety has specific permitting guidelines that must be adhered to in order to move forward with a solar project. In addition, systems must meet specific criteria outlined by the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power in order to connect to the electricity grid.
Solar Companies in Los Angeles
At a minimum, all solar installers must be registered with the state as a qualified solar installer. Plus, you can check the Contractor State Licensing Board (CSLB) to see that they are in good standing as a contractor. There are two basic types of deals: one where you pay for the panels upfront and another where they install at no cost and then charge you over time. Generally, paying for them upfront will save you more money, but not everybody can afford that.
- Est. 2009
- 1367 Venice Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90006 - 213-388-5647
AmGreen provides comprehensive energy efficiency solutions to its clients, including solar energy systems, retrofitting for energy efficiency, and water conservation assistance. The company offers a Total Energy Savings Program that allows homeowners to get a solar system with low interest 12-month, fixed rate financing.
- Est. 2004
- 5018 Eagle Rock Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90041 - 323-982-9505
This company provides services to all of Los Angeles County. Roofing services include solar attic fans.
- Est. 2007
- 11750 Roscoe Blvd., Ste. 7
Sun Valley, CA 91352 - 818-484-3264
AWS Solar provides solar energy solutions to commercial and residential customers. Homeowners can get a new installation on their home, as well as maintenance services for solar panels that were previously installed.
- Est. 2012
- 3348 Crownview Drive
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA - 310-977-6285
Beach Cities Solar offers full solar services, including building permits, system sizing, rebate filing, installation, and repairs. The company services the entire Southern California region.
- Est. 1936
- 3310 Verdugo Road
Los Angeles, CA 90065 - 323-254-2888
Provides solar services for residences and businesses. Since its inception, the company has installed almost 8,000 solar systems. In addition to solar, the company offers waterproofing, decking, railing, and insulation services.
- Est. 2009
- 5042 Wilshire Blvd., #268
Los Angeles, CA 90036 - 323-646-2534
Accredited by the Building Performance Institute, this company installs solar photovoltaic and solar thermal energy systems on homes. It also performs an audit and creates a customized plan designed to meet each individual customer’s needs.
- Est. 2013
- 1053 Colorado Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90041 - 844-655-9324
Cielo Solar was founded by environmental activists who wanted to provide clean, affordable energy to home and business owners in Los Angeles County. The company provides discounts, financing, and a referral program to its customers.
- Est. 1991
- 20720 Leapwood Ave., Unit E
Carson, CA 90746 - 866-865-4559
From consultation to installation, Energy Service Partners provides full-service solar energy solutions to its customers. The company has completed more than 1,800 installations since it was founded in 1991.
- Est. 2016
- 5160 Van Nuys Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 - 844-396-7448
Provides personalized solar solutions to customers in Southern California. Plans the entire project, including securing necessary building permits and financing.
- Est. 2015
- 17514 Ventura Blvd., Ste. 206
Encino, CA 91316 - 855-976-5275
This company prides itself on building strong relationships to provide solar services to residential, commercial, and governmental customers. Creates customized solutions based on factors such as roof size, shingle types, and energy consumption.
- Est. 2002
- 6532 La Mirada Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90038 - 844-247-6863
Installs solar panels on residential and commercial properties. Offers zero-down financing options.
- Est. NA
- 1240 Vine St., #C
Hollywood, CA 90038 - 800-485-2711
Installs ground or roof mounted solar panels, as well as fixed racks and trackers. Provides a variety of panel products to choose from.
- Est. 1998
- 3026 W. 48th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90043 - 323-293-9684
At the beginning of each project, this company works closely with homeowners to find solutions that best fit their energy needs. Also offers warranties that last up to 50 years after installation.
- Est. 1953
- 2011 Sawtelle Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025 - 310-473-8111
This family-owned company provides solar water heating systems. Other services also include sewer and draining cleaning and repair, water purification, and hydroponic space heating systems.
- Est. 2000
- 8859 Wilbur Ave.
Northridge, CA 91324 - 800-528-0655
Mega Sun Power provides green solutions to commercial and residential customers around Southern California. Projects are completed in their entirety by the company’s in-house staff—which includes proposals, permitting, installation, and customer service.
- Est. 2007
- 433 Colyton St., Ste. 205
Los Angeles, CA 90013 - 323-669-8414
These LEED Accredited Practitioners specialize in sustainable building practices and energy efficiency. Services include solar panel installation, solar pool heating, greenhouse installation, and sustainability consulting.
- Est. 1999
- 18949 Mayall St.
Los Angeles, CA 91324 - 818-326-1083
Through its experienced engineers, electricians, and installers, Moonlight Electric Services provides customized solar energy options to its customers. The company works with clients to create a design that best meets homeowners’ needs. In addition, it offers warranties for workmanship and products.
- Est. 2006
- 24629 Arch St.
Santa Clarita, CA 91321 - 661-259-1004
This company provides in-house service on projects from conception to ongoing maintenance. Works with residential and commercial customers around Southern California.
- Est. 1994
- 6617 Independence Ave.
Canoga Park, CA 91303 - 877-237-6477
The experts at PacificSky Solar help customers understand the process of getting solar panels, how these projects can be financed, and the types of materials that are used. After reviewing customers’ energy consumption and performing a shading analysis, the company creates a unique system for each client.
- Est. 2003
- 525 S. Hewitt St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013 - 323-692-9264
Permacity has experienced engineers on staff that can complete both simple and complex solar projects. The company provides solar electricity and hot water services.
- Est. 1975
- 5467 W San Fernando Rd
Los Angeles, CA 90039 - 818-240-1737
With a deep understanding of energy efficiency, and certified installers, Precise Air Systems provides mounted solar equipment to its customers. The company also installs HVAC systems.
- Est. 2010
- Toluca Lake, CA 91602
- 323-426-4700
Works with commercial and residential clients in Los Angeles. Provides services such as energy analysis, solar design and installation, and financing assistance.
- Est. 2013
- 5637 Observation Lane
Los Angeles, CA 90028 - 828-REVAMP-4
Armed with a staff of energy experts, this company provides complete turnkey solutions to its residential and commercial solar customers. Financing is tied to the property, rather than the customer.
- Est. 2003
- 2658 Griffith Park Blvd., # 410
Los Angeles, CA 90039 - 310-461-8867
Since its founding in 2003, SK-Solar Inc. has installed over 1,000 systems to business and residential customers. Clients enjoy services that include permitting, installation, connection, and monitoring. In addition, the company helps customers obtain rebates.
- Est. 1999
- 424-299-4859
Offers services to commercial and residential clients. In addition to installation, the company provides solar tracking systems.
- Est. 2009
- 614 W. Colorado St.
Glendale, CA 91204 - 800-552-9970
This company supplies solar systems to commercial, residential, and industrial clients in Southern California. It provides assistance with design, installation, and financing.
- Est. 2000
- 11150 Santa Monica Blvd., Ste. 1280
Los Angeles, CA 90025 - 310-618-8177
Provides turnkey solutions to homeowners, companies, and government agencies thanks to its design, construction, and procurement experts. Customers also receive support after installation.
- Est. 2001
- 1271 Allen Ave.
Glendale, CA 91201 - 818-616-7557
This company has solar services for commercial and residential customers. Customers can also take advantage of special pricing offers provided by the company.
- Est. 2013
- 14500 Roscoe Blvd., Ste. 400
Panorama City, CA 91402 - 805-458-5432
SunFreedom Solar not only provides solar services, it also helps customers understand how the technology works and why it’s a good option for their homes. In addition, the company offers financing solutions for no money down.
- Est. NA
- 12116 Sherman Way
North Hollywood, CA 91605 - 844-547-1347
Services commercial and residential clients around Southern California. Offers flexible pricing to meet clients’ financial needs.
- Est. 1987
- 7095 Hollywood Blvd., Ste. #347
Hollywood, CA 90028-6035 - 1-877-976-8822
Sun Systems has provided comprehensive solar service to thousands of homeowners since opening. The company does evaluations to determine the best location for solar panels, helps with financing, and handles installation and maintenance without the use of third parties.
- Est. 1998
- 7510 Sunset Blvd., #310
Los Angeles, CA 90046 - 1-877-353-6688
Provides solar reflective shingles, as well as other green solutions like insulation and roof coating. Helps customers secure funding for their projects.
- Est. 2010
- 4700G W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90019 - 213-805-8403
Offers personalized solutions for residential and commercial properties. After installation, the company has 24/7 monitoring that allows professionals to take action quickly when a problem arises.
- Est. 1998
- 1412 Mount Pleasant St.
Los Angeles, CA 90042 - 323-296-9745
Villa Building offers solar systems, exterior painting, and home addition services to residential customers in Los Angeles. The company also has remodeling services.
- Est. 2008
- 10250 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90067 - 424-543-4846
West Los Angeles Solar Panels provides all-in-one solar services for residences in Southern California. Offers a free consultation, as well as design, installation, and financing.
- Est. 2008
- 1079 Broxton Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90024 - 310-853-8004
This company offers solar design and installation with zero down for homeowners who qualify. Provides consultations to ensure that customers receive the individual attention they need.
LOS ANGELES LIBRARY OF SOLAR RESOURCES
- City of Los Angeles Solar Information This site provides information on how to find a solar installer, as well as permitting, interconnection, and incentive guidelines.
- Guidelines For Plan Check And Permit Requirements For Solar Energy Systems Includes detailed information about the solar permitting process in Los Angeles.
- Los Angeles County Report from UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation that discusses solar potential in the region.
- Solar Incentive Program This page has information from the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power on its incentive program.
- Southern California Edison One of the utility companies that provides service in Los Angeles.
- Sustainable City pLAn The Mayor’s comprehensive plan on environment, economy, and equality for Los Angeles.