Solar Panel Cost Guide in Benicia, CA (2024 Update)
- Benicia Solar Installation Cost: $7,414
- 25-Year Savings: $20,498
- Payback Period: 7.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Benicia
Find out how much it might cost to make the switch to solar in Benicia.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Benicia, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.Since a 3.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Benicia, the average price of going solar will be about $7,414 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The actual cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with.With average savings of about $33,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Benicia find installing solar panels can pay off big.
To receive a free quote from a pre-vetted solar installation company in Benicia, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Benicia
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,876 |
| 3 years | $-2,800 |
| 5 years | $276 |
| 7 years | $3,351 |
| 9 years | $6,427 |
| 11 years | $9,503 |
| 13 years | $12,579 |
| 15 years | $15,655 |
| 17 years | $18,730 |
| 19 years | $21,806 |
| 21 years | $24,882 |
| 23 years | $27,958 |
| 25 years | $31,034 |
Top Solar Installers in Benicia
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Taking advantage of a solar company can make converting to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are often included in the cost of installation when you hire a solar company as well, which can save you more money over time.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some in Benicia:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Benicia
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Benicia
While the average cost of a solar system in Benicia is $7,414, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need to offset your energy usage, 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 about $3,470. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. Generally speaking, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you choose can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Benicia to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar installer in the area provides financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to a higher cost over time due to interest.It’s a good idea to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The remaining significant cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of renewable energy solutions in Benicia, you’ll have lots of options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Benicia have more knowledge 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 help you save 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 | $3.61 | $15,157 | $36,603 | 7.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $49,193 | 7.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $61,977 | 7.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $74,956 | 6.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $88,128 | 6.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $101,495 | 6.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $115,057 | 6.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $128,813 | 6.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer 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 things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one mark of a good company.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it’s important to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Make sure you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to do the job well. Another way you can look into your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it’s important to do it carefully so you can be sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Benicia, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Benicia?
The average cost of solar panels in Benicia is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels completely eradicate my power bills?
It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Benicia, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you’ll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.