Solar Panel Cost Guide in Apple Valley, CA (2024 Update)
- Apple Valley Solar Installation Cost: $6,973
- 25-Year Savings: $15,702
- Payback Period: 8.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Apple Valley
We go over average solar pricing in Apple Valley.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Apple Valley typically cost around 3.The average Apple Valley homeowner needs a 2.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $6,973 with the federal tax credit, or $9,971 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The exact cost of going solar can vary based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Apple Valley see about $28,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Apple Valley
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,788 |
| 3 years | $-3,419 |
| 5 years | $-1,049 |
| 7 years | $1,320 |
| 9 years | $3,690 |
| 11 years | $6,059 |
| 13 years | $8,429 |
| 15 years | $10,798 |
| 17 years | $13,168 |
| 19 years | $15,537 |
| 21 years | $17,907 |
| 23 years | $20,276 |
| 25 years | $22,646 |
Top Solar Installers in Apple Valley
Trying to install solar panels yourself can be a challenging task, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Since solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Apple Valley, the EcoWatch team has compiled a list of our top suggestions here:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Apple Valley
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Apple Valley
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few key factors that determine your overall cost in Apple Valley: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,470.The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Apple Valley average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on energy bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Apple Valley homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs.When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you opt for to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Apple Valley, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger names.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.61 | $15,157 | $29,127 | 8.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $39,225 | 8.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $49,517 | 8.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $60,003 | 8.1 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $70,684 | 7.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $81,559 | 7.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $92,628 | 7.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $103,892 | 7.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s durability and efficiency, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar installer about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
- Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar panel system, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Apple Valley, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Apple Valley?
The average cost of solar panels in Apple Valley is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Apple Valley?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you are unable to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most financial benefits from going solar.
Can solar panels eliminate my electricity bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn’t get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,476.14 per year.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.