Solar Panel Cost Guide in Anaheim, CA (2023 Update)
- Anaheim Solar Installation Cost: $5,512
- 25-Year Savings: $15,059
- Payback Period: 6.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Anaheim
Find out how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Anaheim.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Anaheim it's 2.73 per watt. The average Anaheim homeowner needs a 2.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $5,504 with the federal tax credit, or $7,871 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The exact cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. With average savings of about $27,000 on electricity bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Anaheim find going solar has a decent ROI.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Anaheim
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,443 |
| 3 years | $-5,306 |
| 5 years | $-5,169 |
| 7 years | $-5,032 |
| 9 years | $-4,895 |
| 11 years | $-4,757 |
| 13 years | $-4,620 |
| 15 years | $-4,483 |
| 17 years | $-4,346 |
| 19 years | $-4,209 |
| 21 years | $-4,072 |
| 23 years | $-3,935 |
| 25 years | $-3,797 |
Top Solar Installers in Anaheim
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners decide to use a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a challenging project. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar company can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much solar panels could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Anaheim
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Anaheim
The cost of installing a solar system in Anaheim can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is the size of the system you need, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Anaheim homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to sustainable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Anaheim, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Anaheim know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
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 | $30,869 | 7.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $41,465 | 6.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $52,213 | 6.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $63,114 | 6.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $74,169 | 6.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $85,376 | 6.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $96,736 | 6.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $108,248 | 6.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Anaheim, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the total cost, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you choose.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Anaheim, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Anaheim?
The average cost of solar panels in Anaheim is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on stuff such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Anaheim?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it often comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to get the most savings.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a fruitful investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your energy bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Anaheim?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is their energy production will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.