How to Get Solar Panels in Long Beach

Long Beach, California, is a coastal city known for its sunny climate, vibrant communities, and progressive environmental policies. With over 280 days of sunshine annually, it’s one of the most ideal locations in the United States to harness solar energy. As electricity costs continue to rise and climate concerns grow, more residents are turning to solar power to reduce utility bills, increase home value, and contribute to a cleaner environment. Getting solar panels in Long Beach is not just a smart financial decision—it’s a responsible step toward energy independence.

This comprehensive guide walks you through every critical phase of installing solar panels in Long Beach, from initial research to system activation. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, a long-time resident, or a business owner looking to cut operational costs, this tutorial provides actionable, up-to-date information tailored to local regulations, incentives, and market conditions. By the end, you’ll understand exactly how to navigate the process confidently and efficiently.

Step-by-Step Guide

Assess Your Energy Needs and Usage Patterns

Before you consider any solar installation, you must understand your household or business’s electricity consumption. Review your past 12 months of utility bills—preferably from Southern California Edison (SCE) or Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), depending on your service area. Look for your average monthly kilowatt-hour (kWh) usage. This data is essential because it determines the size of the solar system you’ll need.

Most Long Beach homes consume between 500 and 1,000 kWh per month. A typical residential solar system ranges from 5 kW to 10 kW in capacity. For example, if your average monthly usage is 800 kWh, you’ll likely need a 7–8 kW system to offset nearly all of your electricity consumption. Keep in mind that seasonal variations matter: summer months often see higher usage due to air conditioning, while winter months may be lower.

Use free online tools like PVWatts Calculator from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) to estimate how much energy your roof can produce based on its orientation, tilt, and shading. Input your Long Beach address, and the tool will generate monthly and annual production estimates using local weather data.

Check Roof Suitability and Structural Integrity

Not all roofs are suitable for solar panels. The ideal roof for solar in Long Beach faces south with a pitch between 15 and 40 degrees. East- and west-facing roofs can still be effective, though they typically produce 10–20% less energy than south-facing ones. North-facing roofs are generally not recommended.

Inspect your roof’s condition. Solar panels last 25–30 years, so your roof should be in good shape or recently replaced. If your roof is over 15 years old or shows signs of wear—cracked shingles, leaks, sagging—it’s wise to repair or replace it before installing panels. A structural engineer or certified solar installer can assess load-bearing capacity to ensure your roof can support the weight of the system, which averages 3–4 pounds per square foot.

Shading is another critical factor. Trees, chimneys, or neighboring buildings can cast shadows on your panels, significantly reducing efficiency. Use a solar pathfinder tool or a smartphone app like Solar Path or Sun Surveyor to map shade patterns across your roof throughout the day and year. If shading is unavoidable, consider microinverters or power optimizers, which allow each panel to operate independently, minimizing the impact of partial shading.

Research Local Incentives and Rebates

Long Beach residents benefit from a powerful combination of federal, state, and local incentives that dramatically reduce the upfront cost of solar.

The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) allows you to claim 30% of your total system cost as a tax credit on your federal income taxes. This applies to both equipment and installation labor. The credit is available through 2032, after which it phases down gradually.

California’s Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP) offers rebates for solar paired with battery storage, particularly for low-income households or those in high-fire-risk areas. While SGIP is not directly for solar-only systems, it’s worth exploring if you plan to add a battery later.

Additionally, the California Solar Initiative (CSI) has transitioned to performance-based incentives through the California Energy Commission. Though the direct rebate program has ended, net metering remains robust. Net metering allows you to earn credits for excess electricity your panels send back to the grid, which offsets your bill during non-sunny hours.

Long Beach also participates in the California Solar Initiative’s Solar Thermal Program, which supports solar water heating systems. While separate from photovoltaic panels, combining both can maximize your energy savings.

Visit the Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency (DSIRE) at dsireusa.org and search for “Long Beach” to get the most current incentive listings. Always confirm eligibility with your installer—they’ll often handle paperwork for you.

Select a Reputable Solar Installer

Choosing the right installer is arguably the most important step in your solar journey. In Long Beach, there are dozens of solar companies, ranging from national franchises to local, family-owned businesses. Look for installers with:

• California State License Board (CSLB) license

  1084558 or higher (verify at cslb.ca.gov)

• Proof of general liability and workers’ compensation insurance
• At least five years of experience installing systems in Southern California
• Positive reviews on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau
• Membership in the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA)

Request at least three detailed quotes. Each quote should include:

• System size in kW
• Panel brand and model (e.g., SunPower, LG, REC, or Panasonic)
• Inverter type (string, microinverter, or hybrid)
• Estimated annual production in kWh
• Warranties for equipment and workmanship
• Total cost before and after incentives
• Payment options (cash, loan, lease, PPA)

Avoid companies that pressure you into signing immediately or offer “free solar.” These are often leasing or power purchase agreement (PPA) models that don’t give you ownership of the system and may complicate future home sales.

Apply for Permits and Approvals

Before installation begins, your solar installer will handle the necessary permits through the City of Long Beach Building and Safety Department. The process typically involves submitting:

• Electrical and structural engineering plans
• Site plans showing panel placement
• Equipment specifications
• Net metering application to your utility provider

Permitting in Long Beach usually takes 2–4 weeks. The city has streamlined its process through its online portal, making it easier for installers to track progress. You’ll receive a permit notice once approved, and inspections will be scheduled at key stages: pre-roof, post-installation, and final electrical.

Don’t skip the utility interconnection agreement. Southern California Edison (SCE) requires this to connect your system to the grid. Your installer will submit the application on your behalf, but you must sign it. Approval typically takes 1–3 weeks.

Installation Process and Timeline

Once permits are approved, installation usually takes 1–3 days for a standard residential system. Here’s what to expect:

1. Day 1: Scaffold setup, roof protection, and mounting hardware installation. Panels are not yet placed.
2. Day 2: Panel mounting, wiring, and inverter installation. The system is not yet energized.
3. Day 3: Final electrical connections, system testing, and meter swap (if required). The installer will demonstrate how to monitor your system.

During installation, the crew will protect your landscaping and clean up thoroughly. Most reputable companies use drop cloths and debris bins to prevent damage. You should not be present for the entire process, but it’s helpful to be available for a brief walkthrough at the end.

Inspection and Interconnection

After installation, the City of Long Beach will conduct a final inspection. The inspector checks for code compliance, proper grounding, labeling, and safe access to disconnects. If issues are found, the installer will correct them and reschedule the inspection.

Once the city approves the system, your utility provider (SCE or PG&E) will install a bi-directional meter. This meter tracks both the electricity you draw from the grid and the excess you send back. In some cases, the meter swap may happen before the city inspection—your installer will coordinate this.

After the meter is activated, your system is officially “online.” You’ll receive a notice from your utility confirming your net metering account is active. At this point, you can begin generating your own electricity and earning credits.

Monitor and Maintain Your System

Modern solar systems come with monitoring apps that let you track energy production in real time via smartphone. Platforms like Enphase Enlighten, SolarEdge Monitoring, or SunPower Monitoring show daily output, system health, and alerts for anomalies.

Long Beach’s coastal environment means salt air and dust can accumulate on panels. While rain usually cleans them naturally, occasional cleaning with a garden hose (early morning or late evening) can improve efficiency by 5–10%. Never use abrasive cleaners or pressure washers.

Annual inspections by your installer are recommended to check wiring, mounting hardware, and inverter performance. Most systems require little maintenance, but catching small issues early prevents costly repairs.

Best Practices

Choose High-Efficiency Panels for Long Beach’s Climate

Long Beach’s warm, sunny climate favors high-efficiency solar panels. Monocrystalline panels, especially those with PERC (Passivated Emitter and Rear Cell) technology, perform better in heat than polycrystalline or thin-film alternatives. Brands like SunPower Maxeon and LG NeON R offer efficiency ratings above 22%, meaning they produce more power per square foot—a crucial advantage if your roof space is limited.

Opt for Microinverters Over String Inverters

String inverters connect panels in series, so if one panel is shaded or underperforming, it drags down the entire string. Microinverters attach to each panel individually, maximizing output even in partially shaded conditions. Given Long Beach’s mature trees and dense neighborhoods, microinverters are often the smarter choice.

Plan for Future Energy Needs

Consider your future electricity usage. Are you planning to buy an electric vehicle? Install a heat pump? Add a pool? These will increase your energy demand. Installing a slightly larger system now (e.g., 8 kW instead of 6 kW) may cost only 10–15% more but save you from having to expand later. Most installers can design systems with expansion in mind.

Understand Net Metering Policies

California’s net metering policy, NEM 3.0, went into effect in April 2023. While it still allows you to receive credits for excess solar energy, the rate you’re paid has changed. Instead of a 1:1 credit, you now receive lower compensation for exported energy, based on the utility’s avoided cost. This makes energy storage more valuable. Pairing your solar system with a battery (like Tesla Powerwall or LG Chem) lets you store excess power for use during peak hours when grid electricity is most expensive.

Compare Financing Options Carefully

You have three main ways to pay for solar:

• Cash Purchase: Highest long-term savings. You own the system and claim all incentives.
• Solar Loan: You own the system but pay monthly. Interest rates are low (3–7%), and monthly payments are often less than your previous electric bill.
• Lease or PPA: A third party owns the system. You pay a fixed monthly fee or per-kWh rate. No upfront cost, but you don’t get tax credits or increased home value.

For most Long Beach homeowners, a solar loan is the optimal balance of affordability and ownership benefits. Avoid leases if you plan to sell your home within five years—they can complicate the sale process.

Document Everything

Keep copies of all contracts, permits, inspection reports, warranty documents, and correspondence with your installer and utility. Store them digitally and physically. This documentation is vital for future home sales, insurance claims, or system repairs.

Engage With the Local Solar Community

Long Beach has active neighborhood solar groups and events hosted by the Long Beach Climate Action Coalition. Attend a solar expo or community workshop to hear firsthand experiences from neighbors who’ve gone solar. These events often feature discounted group pricing with local installers.

Tools and Resources

Online Calculators and Simulators

• PVWatts Calculator (NREL): https://pvwatts.nrel.gov – Estimates production based on location, system size, and orientation.
• EnergySage Solar Marketplace: https://www.energysage.com – Compare up to seven pre-vetted installer quotes in minutes.
• DSIRE (Database of State Incentives): https://www.dsireusa.org – Official source for federal, state, and local solar incentives.
• California Energy Commission Solar Calculator: https://www.energy.ca.gov – Helps estimate payback period and savings.

Permitting and Regulatory Resources

• City of Long Beach Building and Safety: https://www.longbeach.gov/building – Online permit applications, inspection scheduling, and code requirements.
• California State License Board (CSLB): https://www.cslb.ca.gov – Verify contractor licenses and check complaints.
• Southern California Edison Net Metering: https://www.sce.com/residential/net-metering – Details on NEM 3.0, interconnection, and billing.

Financing and Incentive Platforms

• Energy Efficient Mortgage (EEM): FHA and VA loans allow you to finance solar upgrades into your mortgage.
• Ygrene Energy Fund: PACE financing available in Long Beach for eligible homeowners (property-assessed clean energy).
• Clean Energy States Alliance: https://www.cesa.org – Guides on low-income solar programs and community solar options.

Monitoring and Maintenance Tools

• Enphase Enlighten: Real-time monitoring for Enphase microinverters.
• SolarEdge Monitoring: App and web dashboard for SolarEdge systems.
• PanelClaw or SunPower Cleaning Kit: Recommended tools for safe, non-abrasive cleaning.

Local Organizations and Events

• Long Beach Climate Action Coalition: Hosts solar workshops and community solar initiatives.
• Long Beach Public Library: Offers free solar information sessions and access to energy advisors.
• Cal State Long Beach Energy Center: Research and educational resources on renewable energy adoption.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: The Martinez Family – Single-Family Home in North Long Beach

The Martinez family, living in a 2,200-square-foot home built in 1998, had an average monthly electric bill of $185. After researching options, they chose a 7.6 kW system with 20 SunPower panels and Enphase IQ8 microinverters. They financed the system with a 15-year solar loan at 4.9% interest. Total installed cost: $21,500. After the 30% federal tax credit, their out-of-pocket cost was $15,050.

The system produces an estimated 11,200 kWh annually—more than their 9,600 kWh usage. Under NEM 3.0, they receive $0.08 per kWh for excess generation. Their monthly bill now averages $12 in grid connection fees. They expect to break even on their investment in 7.2 years and save over $35,000 in electricity costs over the system’s lifetime.

Case Study 2: The Rivera Dental Clinic – Commercial Solar Installation

Dr. Rivera’s dental practice in the Belmont Shore district used 18,000 kWh annually, costing $2,200 per month. They installed a 14.5 kW rooftop system with 38 REC Alpha panels and a string inverter. The clinic qualified for a 30% federal tax credit and a $10,000 California Energy Commission grant for small businesses. Total cost after incentives: $38,000.

The system offsets 95% of their usage. They now pay only $150/month for grid connection and minimal usage. The clinic also installed LED lighting and energy-efficient HVAC systems simultaneously, increasing overall savings. Their ROI is projected at 5.8 years, and the system has increased their property value by an estimated $55,000.

Case Study 3: The Garcia Apartment Complex – Multi-Unit Solar Project

A 12-unit apartment building in West Long Beach installed a 42 kW solar array on its flat roof, serving all units via a shared net metering setup. The landlord applied for the Multifamily Affordable Solar Housing (MASH) program, which provided a $25,000 incentive. The system reduces tenants’ electricity costs by 60%, helping the property meet Long Beach’s Green Building Code requirements for new retrofits.

Each tenant now pays $25–$40 per month for electricity, down from $70–$110. The landlord reports higher tenant retention and lower vacancy rates since the upgrade.

FAQs

How much do solar panels cost in Long Beach?

As of 2024, the average cost of a residential solar system in Long Beach is $2.80 to $3.50 per watt before incentives. A typical 7 kW system costs $19,600–$24,500. After the 30% federal tax credit, the net cost is $13,720–$17,150. Prices vary based on equipment quality, roof complexity, and installer.

Do I need permission from my HOA to install solar panels?

No. California’s Solar Rights Act (Civil Code Section 714) prohibits homeowners associations from banning solar installations. HOAs can only impose “reasonable” restrictions, such as requiring panels to be installed on the rear roof if visible from the street. Most installers are familiar with these laws and can help you navigate any HOA concerns.

Can I install solar panels if I rent my home?

If you’re a renter, you cannot install panels on the property unless your landlord agrees. However, you can advocate for your landlord to install solar. Alternatively, consider joining a community solar program. Southern California Edison offers community solar subscriptions for renters, allowing you to buy a share of a local solar farm and receive bill credits.

Will solar panels increase my property taxes?

No. California’s Property Tax Exclusion for Solar Energy Systems (Section 73 of the Revenue and Taxation Code) prevents your property taxes from increasing due to solar panel installation. The added value from solar is excluded from property tax assessments.

How long do solar panels last in Long Beach?

Solar panels typically come with a 25-year performance warranty and can last 30–40 years. In Long Beach’s mild coastal climate, degradation is slower than in hotter inland areas. Most panels lose only 0.3–0.5% efficiency per year, meaning after 25 years, they’ll still produce 85–90% of their original output.

What happens if I move?

If you own your system outright or via loan, you can either transfer the system to the new owner (often increasing home value) or remove and reinstall it at your new home. Most buyers prefer homes with owned solar systems. If you lease your panels, the lease can be transferred to the new owner, but this requires approval and may complicate the sale.

Do solar panels work during a power outage?

Standard grid-tied systems shut off during outages for safety reasons. To maintain power during outages, you need a battery backup system. Adding a battery (like Tesla Powerwall or LG Chem) allows your home to operate independently during grid failures. Many Long Beach residents are opting for this combination due to increasing wildfire-related outages.

Are there low-income solar programs in Long Beach?

Yes. The California Solar Initiative’s Single-Family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) program provides grants for qualifying low-income households. Eligibility is based on income level and property ownership. Additionally, the Multifamily Affordable Solar Housing (MASH) program supports landlords serving low-income tenants. Apply through your solar installer or the California Energy Commission website.

Conclusion

Getting solar panels in Long Beach is a well-defined, highly rewarding process that combines environmental responsibility with tangible financial benefits. From assessing your energy needs and selecting the right equipment to navigating incentives and permits, every step is designed to empower you with clean, affordable energy. The city’s sunny climate, supportive policies, and access to experienced installers make Long Beach one of the most favorable places in California to go solar.

By following this guide, you’re not just installing panels—you’re investing in energy independence, long-term savings, and a cleaner future. Whether you’re motivated by rising utility bills, climate consciousness, or increased home value, solar energy in Long Beach offers a clear path forward.

Take the first step today: review your utility bills, use PVWatts to estimate your potential savings, and request quotes from three certified local installers. The sun is already shining—now it’s time to capture it.