Solar Panel Cost Guide in Campbell, CA (Mar 2023)
- Campbell Solar Installation Cost: $5,695
- 25-Year Savings: $19,705
- Payback Period: 5.6 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated March 14, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in Campbell
We go over average solar pricing in Campbell.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Campbell generally cost around 2.73. The average solar panel system size in Campbell is around 3.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,695 for a solar installation, or $8,144 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Campbell homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite good, with a net average savings of about $32,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To get a free quote from a top solar installer in Campbell, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Campbell
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,679 |
| 3 years | $-2,647 |
| 5 years | $-615 |
| 7 years | $1,417 |
| 9 years | $3,449 |
| 11 years | $5,481 |
| 13 years | $7,513 |
| 15 years | $9,545 |
| 17 years | $11,577 |
| 19 years | $13,609 |
| 21 years | $15,641 |
| 23 years | $17,673 |
| 25 years | $19,705 |
Top Solar Installers in Campbell
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Using an installer can make converting to solar power much easier. A solar company can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by providing warranties, repairs and component replacements.
If you're searching for a solar installer in Campbell, 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 Campbell
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Campbell
There are a number of factors that can influence your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have higher efficiency or power generation need 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 brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Plus, if you want additional equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar companies in Campbell have solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your total costs, so it's vital to keep that in mind as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar system can play a role in determining the cost. Campbell's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $39,144 | 5.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $52,498 | 5.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $66,004 | 5.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $79,664 | 5.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $93,476 | 5.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $107,441 | 5.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $121,559 | 5.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $135,830 | 5.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly influences your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you want plays a part in which installer you should go with, since different companies have access to different panels.
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 Campbell, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Campbell?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider aside from cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Campbell have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally 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.