How Much Can a California Auto Shop Save with Solar?
California mechanics pay the highest electricity rates in the continental US. Here's exactly how much you can save with plug-and-play solar based on your shop size.
The California Electricity Problem
If you run an auto repair shop in California, you already know the pain. PG&E, SCE, and SDG&E commercial rates average $0.25 to $0.40 per kWh—two to three times the national average. And it's getting worse every year.
Your shop runs compressors, lifts, welders, HVAC, and lighting all day long. That equipment doesn't care about peak pricing or demand charges. It just runs—and your utility bill keeps climbing.
The Real Cost
A typical 4-bay auto shop in California spends $1,500 to $2,500 per month on electricity. That's $18,000 to $30,000 per year—money that could be profit.
Real Savings by Shop Size
Here's what California shop owners are actually saving with plug-and-play solar systems:
Small Shop (1-2 Bays)
System Size
4,000-8,000W (2-4 kits)
Monthly Savings
$300-600
System Cost
$4,000-$10,000
Payback (with tax credits)
12-18 months
Medium Shop (3-5 Bays)
System Size
8,000-12,000W (4-6 kits)
Monthly Savings
$500-900
System Cost
$10,000-$20,000
Payback (with tax credits)
14-20 months
Large Shop (6+ Bays)
System Size
12,000-18,000W (6-9 kits)
Monthly Savings
$800-1,400
System Cost
$20,000-$33,000
Payback (with tax credits)
18-24 months
Why Plug-and-Play Makes Sense for Auto Shops
Traditional solar requires permits, utility approval, and professional installation. That process takes 6-12 months and costs $20,000-$50,000 or more. For most independent shops, it's just not practical.
Plug-and-play solar is different:
- No permits required – Our zero-export technology means no utility interconnection
- Install in hours, not months – Mount panels, plug in, start saving
- Works in leased buildings – Take it with you if you move
- Mechanic-friendly – If you can change a timing belt, you can install this
2026 Tax Benefits Make It Even Better
The Big Beautiful Bill provides 100% first-year depreciation for business solar investments. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, your effective cost drops by nearly 50%.
Example: $20,000 System
- 30% Tax Credit: -$6,000
- Depreciation Savings (25% bracket): -$3,500
- Effective Cost: $10,500
- Monthly Savings: $700
- Payback: 15 months
The Bottom Line
California auto shops are uniquely positioned to benefit from plug-and-play solar. You use power during the day when the sun shines. You don't need batteries. And with current tax benefits, the payback period is under 2 years for most shops.
Every month you wait is another $500-$1,400 you're paying to the utility company instead of keeping as profit.
See What Your Shop Can Save
Get a free, no-obligation quote based on your shop size and equipment.
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