Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bell Gardens, CA (2023 Update)
- Bell Gardens Solar Installation Cost: $5,444
- 25-Year Savings: $13,325
- Payback Period: 7.3 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bell Gardens
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in Bell Gardens.
In Bell Gardens, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Bell Gardens, most homeowners require a 2.9-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $5,446, or $7,788 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are only estimates, and your own solar costs may look different based on your energy needs and what company you go with. Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Bell Gardens can save around $25,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar installer in Bell Gardens that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Bell Gardens
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,382 |
| 3 years | $-5,257 |
| 5 years | $-5,132 |
| 7 years | $-5,007 |
| 9 years | $-4,881 |
| 11 years | $-4,756 |
| 13 years | $-4,631 |
| 15 years | $-4,506 |
| 17 years | $-4,381 |
| 19 years | $-4,256 |
| 21 years | $-4,131 |
| 23 years | $-4,006 |
| 25 years | $-3,880 |
Top Solar Installers in Bell Gardens
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it takes extra energy and knowledge. Because of that, the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Because solar panels are exposed to rain, snow, hail and wind, depending on the climate, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Bell Gardens
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bell Gardens
For many Bell Gardens homeowners, the decision to go solar rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Bell Gardens, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay around $2,730 per kilowatt in Bell Gardens. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that are more efficient tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Bell Gardens offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar. It's wise to factor 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 the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies operating throughout Bell Gardens, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies compete with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $27,602 | 7.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $37,109 | 7.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $46,769 | 7.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $56,581 | 7.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $66,546 | 7.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $76,664 | 6.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $86,935 | 6.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $97,359 | 6.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Bell Gardens, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it's crucial to maintain an open line of communication with your solar installer. See to it that you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the overall cost, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one indication of a good company.
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 Bell Gardens, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Bell Gardens?
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 cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Bell Gardens?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't pay upfront or secure 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 savings from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Bell Gardens?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How long do solar panels last in Bell Gardens?
On average, solar panels can last 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 larger 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.