Solar Panel Cost Guide in Arcadia, CA (Mar 2023)
- Arcadia Solar Installation Cost: $5,446
- 25-Year Savings: $14,452
- Payback Period: 6.8 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Arcadia
We go over average solar pricing in Arcadia.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Arcadia, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.73 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Arcadia is around 2.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,446 for a solar installation, or $7,788 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and how much solar costs for you may vary based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you want to go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Arcadia can save around $27,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Arcadia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,650 |
| 3 years | $-3,059 |
| 5 years | $-1,467 |
| 7 years | $125 |
| 9 years | $1,717 |
| 11 years | $3,309 |
| 13 years | $4,901 |
| 15 years | $6,493 |
| 17 years | $8,084 |
| 19 years | $9,676 |
| 21 years | $11,268 |
| 23 years | $12,860 |
| 25 years | $14,452 |
Top Solar Installers in Arcadia
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it takes extra effort and expertise. That's why most people choose a solar panel installer. Plus, if you'd like to maximize your investment in solar energy, using a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives and net metering programs.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't sure which solar panel installer to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 Arcadia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Arcadia
For many Arcadia homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Arcadia, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a few factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production 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 $2,730. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Arcadia, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Arcadia homeowners decide to finance their solar panel systems to offset upfront costs. While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Arcadia homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Arcadia is the company you choose to install your solar system. Similar to choosing a company to install new cabinets, for instance, you'll have many options for solar installers that provide a range of services at different costs. The size of the company sometimes plays the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of more resources and bulk 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 | $2.84 | $11,925 | $29,980 | 7.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $40,279 | 7.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $50,731 | 6.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $61,336 | 6.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $72,094 | 6.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $83,005 | 6.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $94,068 | 6.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $105,285 | 6.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: The model of solar panel you want to get plays a part in which company you should go with, since different companies offer different panels.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a high reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
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 Arcadia, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Arcadia?
The average cost of solar panels in Arcadia 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 things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Are solar panels free in Arcadia?
You can't get solar panels for free in Arcadia. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Arcadia have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future energy bills.
How long do solar panels last in Arcadia?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use 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.