Solar Panel Cost Guide in Alta Sierra, CA (2023 Update)
- Alta Sierra Solar Installation Cost: $5,886
- 25-Year Savings: $20,445
- Payback Period: 5.6 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Alta Sierra
Find out how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Alta Sierra.
The average cost of solar panels in Alta Sierra is 2.73 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Alta Sierra is around 3.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,886 for a solar installation, or $8,417 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of equipment you choose, your solar contractor and more. Even with the large initial cost, the average Alta Sierra homeowner can save around $32,000 on their power bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Alta Sierra that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Alta Sierra
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,833 |
| 3 years | $-2,726 |
| 5 years | $-620 |
| 7 years | $1,487 |
| 9 years | $3,593 |
| 11 years | $5,700 |
| 13 years | $7,806 |
| 15 years | $9,913 |
| 17 years | $12,019 |
| 19 years | $14,126 |
| 21 years | $16,232 |
| 23 years | $18,339 |
| 25 years | $20,445 |
Top Solar Installers in Alta Sierra
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Alta Sierra, we've put together a list of our top suggestions here:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Alta Sierra
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Alta Sierra
For many Alta Sierra homeowners, the decision to go solar depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Alta Sierra, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that significantly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,730. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Alta Sierra average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Alta Sierra to be prohibitively expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar company in the area offers financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in a higher cost over time due to interest. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you get to install your solar system can impact your pricing. Alta Sierra's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $2.84 | $11,925 | $39,322 | 5.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $52,735 | 5.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $66,301 | 5.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $80,019 | 5.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $93,891 | 5.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $107,916 | 5.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $122,093 | 5.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $136,423 | 5.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will impact not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should consider, including:
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Alta Sierra, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Alta Sierra?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Alta Sierra?
A solar panel system isn't free in Alta Sierra, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Can solar panels eliminate my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,708.21 per year.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home will need 20 to 35 panels.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.