Solar Panel Cost Guide in August, CA (Mar 2023)
- August Solar Installation Cost: $5,790
- 25-Year Savings: $20,541
- Payback Period: 5.5 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in August
See how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in August.
The average cost of a solar system in August is 2.73 per watt. The average solar panel system size in August is around 3.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,790 for a solar installation, or $8,280 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Keep in mind that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar will differ based on your household energy needs, the type of solar panels you want to get, your solar contractor and more. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in August can save about $33,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar company in August for a customized quote.
Solar savings over time in August
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,737 |
| 3 years | $-2,631 |
| 5 years | $-524 |
| 7 years | $1,582 |
| 9 years | $3,689 |
| 11 years | $5,795 |
| 13 years | $7,902 |
| 15 years | $10,008 |
| 17 years | $12,115 |
| 19 years | $14,221 |
| 21 years | $16,328 |
| 23 years | $18,434 |
| 25 years | $20,541 |
Top Solar Installers in August
Trying to put up solar panels by yourself can be a difficult project, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Solar installers provide key benefits that can help you maximize your investment, like warranties, monitoring and free repairs.
If you're searching for a solar company in August, the EcoWatch team has compiled 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 August
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in August
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that determine your overall cost in August: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $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 opt for 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, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the August average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable route because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. It's wise to add the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in August is the company you get to install your PV system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services at different price points. Additionally, some companies in August are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. 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 | $40,284 | 5.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $54,017 | 5.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $67,904 | 5.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $81,943 | 5.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $96,135 | 5.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $110,481 | 5.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $124,979 | 5.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $139,630 | 4.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind 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 pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you opt for.
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract thoroughly to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the project timeline.
- 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.
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 August, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in August?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Broadly 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 be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Are solar panels free in August?
Solar panels aren't free in August, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Does August have a net metering program?
Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.
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.