Is Solar Worth It in Irvine? | 2026 Payback Calculator

Calculate your solar panel payback period in Irvine using local sunlight hours and electricity rates to see when your investment pays off.

Data updated: January 2026

Solar Payback Calculator

$5,000$50,000
$0$10,000

Estimated Payback Period

4.3 years

Annual Savings: $2,772

Based on 5.5 avg. sunlight hours/day and $0.28/kWh

Free, no-obligation estimates from certified solar professionals

Pro Research: Solar ROI Guide

Is solar still worth it in 2026? Our comprehensive guide covers payback periods, tax incentives, regional variations, and long-term ROI calculations.

Read Our Solar ROI Guide →

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is solar expensive in Irvine compared to the national average?

Solar installation in Irvine has 5.5 average daily sunlight hours (+10% vs national average) and electricity rates of $0.28/kWh (+75% vs average), which slightly increases payback periods compared to the national average.

How many sunlight hours does Irvine get on average?

Irvine receives an average of 5.5 hours of direct sunlight per day, which is 10% above the national average of 5.0 hours. This favorable sunlight exposure enhances solar panel efficiency and contributes to faster payback periods for solar investments in Irvine.

How long does solar installation take in Irvine?

Solar panel installation in Irvine typically takes 1-3 days for a residential system, depending on system size and roof complexity. The entire process, including permits, inspections, and utility interconnection, usually takes 4-8 weeks from contract signing to system activation.

What are the 2026 price trends for solar in Irvine?

In 2026, solar prices in Irvine continue to decline while electricity rates remain at $0.28/kWh. With 5.5 average daily sunlight hours, homeowners in Irvine can expect payback periods of 6-10 years, with federal tax credits and local incentives potentially reducing this timeline.

Last Verified: January 2026

Solar Investment Returns in Irvine

Solar panel payback periods in Irvine are influenced by several local factors. With an average of 5.5 sunlight hours per day and electricity rates of $0.28 per kWh, homeowners in Irvine can expect different returns compared to other regions.

The Irvine area's climate and local utility policies directly impact your solar investment timeline. Government rebates and net metering programs available in Irvine can significantly reduce your payback period.

Our calculator uses real-time 2026 data specific to Irvine, accounting for local installation costs, available incentives, and regional electricity pricing. This helps you make an informed decision about whether solar is a smart investment for your Irvine property.

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