California / Mendota
Is solar worth it in Mendota?
Pacific Gas & Electric Co. averages 25.8¢/kWh. With 6.0 peak sun hours a day, a typical 5.9 kW system makes ~10,307 kWh a year and saves about $2,656 in year one.
No federal tax credit is included. The 30% homeowner credit (IRS §25D) ended for systems installed after Dec 31, 2025. What changed in 2026 →
How Mendota compares
That is about the same as the California average of 5.4 years, mainly because Mendota's rate is below the state average of 27.6¢/kWh. Your own payback depends on your bill: enter your ZIP and monthly bill above for your number.
| Nearby city | Rate | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kerman | 25.8¢ | 5.7 yrs | $80,598 |
| Madera | 25.8¢ | 5.8 yrs | $79,973 |
| Chowchilla | 25.8¢ | 5.8 yrs | $79,973 |
| Fresno | 25.8¢ | 5.8 yrs | $79,973 |
| Los Banos | 25.8¢ | 5.8 yrs | $81,122 |
| Merced | 25.8¢ | 5.8 yrs | $79,973 |
| Clovis | 25.8¢ | 5.8 yrs | $79,973 |
| Atwater | 25.8¢ | 5.8 yrs | $79,973 |
Questions
How long does solar take to pay off in Mendota, CA?
About 5.7 years for a typical 5.9 kW system at 25.8 cents/kWh, assuming $2.75/W installed, full net metering and 3% yearly rate increases, with no federal tax credit.
Is solar worth it in Mendota?
Yes for most homeowners who stay 10+ years. Our estimate is $2,656 saved in year one and $80,598 net over 25 years after paying for the system.
How much does a solar system cost in Mendota?
A 5.9 kW system sized for an average home (863 kWh/month) is about $16,225 before any local rebates, at $2.75 per watt. Real quotes vary by roof and installer.
Is there a federal solar tax credit in 2026?
Not for homeowners who buy their system. The 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit (IRS section 25D) does not apply to installations completed after December 31, 2025. State rebates, SRECs and utility incentives may still apply.
Get real installer quotes in Mendota
Your number above is an estimate. Real bids usually land within 15%. Free, no obligation.
We may earn a referral fee from partners. Disclosure