Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ben Lomond, CA (2023 Update)
- Ben Lomond Solar Installation Cost: $5,872
- 25-Year Savings: $20,459
- Payback Period: 5.6 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ben Lomond
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in Ben Lomond.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Ben Lomond it's 2.73 per watt. The average Ben Lomond homeowner needs a 3.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $5,867 with the federal tax credit, or $8,390 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Ben Lomond homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, after you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $33,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To get a free estimate from a vetted solar company in Ben Lomond, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ben Lomond
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,334 |
| 3 years | $-1,258 |
| 5 years | $1,818 |
| 7 years | $4,893 |
| 9 years | $7,969 |
| 11 years | $11,045 |
| 13 years | $14,121 |
| 15 years | $17,197 |
| 17 years | $20,272 |
| 19 years | $23,348 |
| 21 years | $26,424 |
| 23 years | $29,500 |
| 25 years | $32,576 |
Top Solar Installers in Ben Lomond
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring an installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Companies can also have access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be right for your family.
Working with a professional solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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 Ben Lomond
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ben Lomond
For many Ben Lomond homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Ben Lomond, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are several factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose 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 over time on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Ben Lomond average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Ben Lomond to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also result in paying more over time due to interest. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last significant cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of renewable energy solutions in Ben Lomond, you'll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of more 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 | $39,491 | 5.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $52,961 | 5.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $66,583 | 5.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $80,359 | 5.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $94,287 | 5.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $108,368 | 5.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $122,602 | 5.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $136,989 | 5.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of companies available in Ben Lomond, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you want plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years likely have a good 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 support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Warranty: Many companies offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
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 Ben Lomond, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Ben Lomond?
The average cost of solar panels in Ben Lomond 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 stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Ben Lomond?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford 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 property 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.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on some different factors like the cost of electricity near you and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Ben Lomond?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down 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.