Solar Energy in San Francisco
San Francisco is located at 13.7°N, 88.1°W in El Salvador. Here's what solar energy looks like for homeowners in this area.
Annual Irradiance
2,059
kWh/m²
Peak Sun Hours
4.9
hrs/day
3.5 kWp Output
6,199
kWh/year
Solar Score
98
/ 100
What does this mean for your roof?
San Francisco receives approximately 2,059 kWh/m² of solar irradiance per year, which translates to 4.9 peak sun hours per day. This is excellent for residential solar energy production.
With a solar score of 98/100, San Francisco ranks #17 of 74 cities in El Salvador for solar potential in our atlas.
A typical 3.5 kWp residential solar system (8 panels) in San Francisco would produce approximately 6,199 kWh per year, sized for the average household in El Salvador.
The best months for solar production in San Francisco are Year-round (minimal seasonal variation), while the lowest production occurs during Rainy season (varies by region). Being in the northern hemisphere, south-facing roofs capture the most annual sunlight.
Estimated savings in San Francisco
System Cost
$4,900
3.5 kWp, before incentives
Annual Savings
~$1,568
At $0.253/kWh
Payback Period
~3 years
Before local incentives
25-Year Net Result
~$45,250
Savings minus system cost
These are approximate figures based on a standardized household consumption of 5,000 kWh/year and an estimated electricity rate of $0.253/kWh in El Salvador. Local incentives may reduce the upfront cost — check current subsidy, tax-credit, or VAT programs in El Salvador, as these can meaningfully shorten the payback period.
Figures are estimates based on typical system assumptions and the latest available electricity-price and billing data for El Salvador. Actual costs, tariffs, net-metering rules, and incentives vary by utility and change over time — confirm with a local installer or energy authority before making decisions.
How solar billing works in El Salvador
Exported energy spins your meter back, offsetting what you draw later.
In El Salvador, rooftop solar is often compensated through an arrangement that resembles net metering, where the electricity you send to the grid is typically credited against the electricity you draw from it. In many areas only the net difference at the end of a billing period is charged, so surplus generation in sunny months may help cover quieter ones. The exact crediting rules, billing windows, and any caps vary by region and utility and should be confirmed locally.
Get your exact numbers
Our calculator uses NASA satellite data for your precise location — not city-level estimates. Free, instant, no signup.
Solar tips for San Francisco homeowners
Face panels south
In the northern hemisphere, south-facing panels capture the most annual sunlight. East-west split systems also work well.
Optimal tilt angle
For San Francisco, the energy-optimal panel tilt is about 17° from horizontal.
Size your system right
For the average household in El Salvador, a 3.5 kWp system (8 panels) covers most electricity needs. Use our calculator for a personalized estimate.
Check local incentives
Local incentives may reduce the upfront cost of residential solar — check current subsidy, tax-credit, and VAT programs with your energy authority in El Salvador.
Gear to prepare for solar
Affiliate links — we may earn a commission.
Solar in other El Salvador cities
Frequently asked questions about solar in San Francisco
How much do solar panels cost in San Francisco?
A typical 3.5 kWp residential solar system in San Francisco, El Salvador costs approximately $4,900 before incentives — this is an estimate based on typical regional pricing. Local incentives such as subsidies, tax credits, or VAT exemptions may reduce the upfront cost; check current programs in El Salvador.
How is exported solar energy credited under net metering in El Salvador?
Under a net-metering-style arrangement, the energy your system exports to the grid in El Salvador is typically credited against the energy you import, so you are often billed mainly on the net amount. How those credits are valued, whether they roll over, and how long they last can vary by region and utility, so it is best to confirm the current terms with a local installer or your energy provider.
How much electricity do solar panels produce in San Francisco?
A 3.5 kWp solar system in San Francisco produces approximately 6,199 kWh per year, based on 4.9 peak sun hours per day and 2,059 kWh/m² annual irradiance.
What is the solar panel payback period in San Francisco?
Based on El Salvador's electricity rate of $0.253/kWh, a 3.5 kWp system in San Francisco pays for itself in approximately 3 years before incentives. After that, the electricity it generates is essentially free for the remaining panel lifespan of 25+ years.
Which direction should solar panels face in San Francisco?
In San Francisco, panels should ideally face south since it's in the northern hemisphere. The optimal tilt angle is about 17° from horizontal.
How many solar panels do I need for my home in San Francisco?
A typical household in El Salvador uses the equivalent of a 3.5 kWp system (8 panels). With 4.9 peak sun hours per day in San Francisco, this covers most electricity needs. Use our calculator for a personalized estimate.