Solar by state › California › Riverside
Solar panels in Riverside, CA: cost and savings
In Riverside, CA, each kW of solar produces about 1,550 kWh a year. A home with a $150 monthly Riverside Public Utilities bill needs roughly 3.4 kW, which costs about $10,500 before incentives and saves about $1,130 in the first year.
Updated 2026-10-20. Production uses the California average until city data is refreshed. See methodology.
Savings by electric bill in Riverside
| Monthly bill | System size | Cost before incentives | Year-1 savings | Payback (buy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $100 | 2.2 kW | $7,000 | $760 | 9 yrs |
| $150 | 3.4 kW | $10,500 | $1,130 | 9 yrs |
| $250 | 5.6 kW | $17,400 | $1,890 | 9 yrs |
| $350 | 7.9 kW | $24,400 | $2,650 | 9 yrs |
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Frequently asked questions
How much do solar panels cost in Riverside?
In Riverside, CA, each kW of solar produces about 1,550 kWh a year. A home with a $150 monthly Riverside Public Utilities bill needs roughly 3.4 kW, which costs about $10,500 before incentives and saves about $1,130 in the first year.
Who is the electric utility in Riverside?
Most Riverside homes are served by Riverside Public Utilities. Since April 2023, new PG&E, SCE and SDG&E customers are credited for exports at avoided-cost rates well below retail, which makes a home battery much more valuable.
How many solar quotes should I get in Riverside?
Get two or three quotes, and compare price per watt, equipment, warranty and the installer's financial strength. Several large installers have gone bankrupt since 2024, so ask who will honor the workmanship warranty if the company closes.