Solar Panel Cost Guide in Auburn Lake Trails, CA (2023 Update)
- Auburn Lake Trails Solar Installation Cost: $5,895
- 25-Year Savings: $20,436
- Payback Period: 5.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Auburn Lake Trails
See how much it might cost to go solar in Auburn Lake Trails.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Auburn Lake Trails, the average cost of solar panels is 2.73 per watt. Since a 3.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Auburn Lake Trails, the average price of going solar will be about $5,886 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
These figures are only averages, and the cost of going solar for you may differ based on your energy needs and what company you go with. Despite the large upfront cost, the average Auburn Lake Trails homeowner can save around $32,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Auburn Lake Trails for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Auburn Lake Trails
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,807 |
| 3 years | $-5,632 |
| 5 years | $-5,456 |
| 7 years | $-5,281 |
| 9 years | $-5,105 |
| 11 years | $-4,930 |
| 13 years | $-4,754 |
| 15 years | $-4,578 |
| 17 years | $-4,403 |
| 19 years | $-4,227 |
| 21 years | $-4,052 |
| 23 years | $-3,876 |
| 25 years | $-3,701 |
Top Solar Installers in Auburn Lake Trails
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installer since installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. Some solar companies, especially local ones, can help you take advantage of incentives in Auburn Lake Trails, optimizing your ROI.
Working with a professional solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
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 Auburn Lake Trails
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Auburn Lake Trails
There are a number of criteria that can influence your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that does the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power production use 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. The model of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will largely affect costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more expensive. Furthermore, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It's important to take all of this into consideration when looking into a solar system that's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are a popular option because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Auburn Lake Trails, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. The company's size sometimes plays the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion 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 | $39,290 | 5.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $52,692 | 5.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $66,247 | 5.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $79,955 | 5.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $93,816 | 5.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $107,830 | 5.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $121,997 | 5.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $136,316 | 5.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the durability of your solar panel system, checking if your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline incentives and warranties.
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 Auburn Lake Trails, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Auburn Lake Trails?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, 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. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is it worth going solar in Auburn Lake Trails?
Solar panels can be a great investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get a lot of direct sunlight and/or your power bills are already fairly low, solar panels might not be for you.
How long do solar panels last in Auburn Lake Trails?
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 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.