SolarData USA

California vs Florida - Solar Energy Comparison

CA

California

Installations
1,921,220
Capacity
17,997 MW
Avg Cost
$4.46/W
System Size
9.4 kW
FL

Florida

Installations
12,486
Capacity
164 MW
Avg Cost
$4.19/W
System Size
13.1 kW

Detailed Comparison

MetricCaliforniaFlorida
Total Installations1,921,22012,486
Total Capacity (MW)17,997164
Avg Cost ($/W)$4.46$4.19
Median Cost ($/W)$4.25$3.78
Avg System Size (kW)9.413.1
Residential %98%95%

California - Cost Trend ($/W)

California Cost per Watt

2000200220042006200820102012201420162018202020222024

Florida - Cost Trend ($/W)

Florida Cost per Watt

2006200820102012201420162018202020222023

Verdict: Which State Is Better for Solar?

Californiaedges ahead overall
  • California has more installations (1,921,220 vs 12,486)
  • Florida has lower average cost ($4.19/W vs $4.46/W)
  • California has more total capacity (17,997 MW vs 164 MW)

Note: The best state for solar depends on your specific situation, including roof orientation, local utility rates, and available financing.

Source: LBNL Tracking the Sun / U.S. Department of Energy