Solar & California: Analyzing the Year’s Biggest Trends in 2025

• 12 May, 2025
• alternative energy resources, benefits of solar, california, california energy sustainability, green energy, installing solar panels, los angeles ca, solar installation, solar panel efficiency

At Plug It In Solar, we’ve always known California was the heartbeat of solar energy in the United States (and are proud to be a large mover of that). But the newest data from the 2024 US Solar Market Insight report proves it once again. With bold shifts in policy and strong numbers in commercial and utility-scale solar, California remains at the forefront of the renewable energy movement: and we’re here to help you take advantage.

California Is Still a Top Solar State — Even With Market Shifts

In 2024, California ranked #2 in the nation for new solar energy installations, just behind Texas. That means thousands of homes and businesses across the state added clean, renewable solar power to their properties: helping the state move closer to its 100% clean energy goal by 2045.

While Texas led in total gigawatts installed, California outpaced Florida, thanks to strong numbers in commercial solar and utility-scale solar projects. The takeaway? California’s solar future is still bright—especially for homeowners and businesses ready to act now.

Residential Solar Saw a Dip 

The report showed a 45% decline in residential solar installations in California in 2024, largely due to the transition from Net Energy Metering (NEM) 2.0 to California’s new net billing policy.

Yet solar panels in California are still one of the smartest investments you can make. 

Commercial Solar in California Is Booming

While residential installs slowed, commercial solar energy in California grew by 11% in 2024. Businesses across the state: from schools to farms to tech campuses; are investing in large-scale solar panel systems and battery storage solutions to lower operational costs, qualify for solar tax credits, and power their operations with clean electricity.

 Plug It In Solar specializes in both residential and commercial installations. If you’re a business owner in Los Angeles or anywhere in California, we’ll show you how to take advantage of every available California solar incentive and maximize your ROI.

Utility-Scale Solar Helps Keep California Green

California was also one of seven states responsible for nearly 70% of all utility-scale solar installations in the U.S. in 2024. These massive solar farms are helping the state meet rising energy demands and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. It’s one more sign that California continues to lead the way in building a cleaner, more resilient power grid.

What It Means for You: Go Solar Now and Save

Whether you’re a homeowner in Los Angeles or a business owner in the Valley, the message is clear: solar energy in California is still one of the best investments you can Our Key Takeaway? California is still where solar power shines.