Solar Panel Cost Guide in Carlsbad, CA (2023 Update)
- Carlsbad Solar Installation Cost: $5,379
- 25-Year Savings: $17,661
- Payback Period: 5.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Carlsbad
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Carlsbad.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Carlsbad, the typical cost of solar panels is 2.73 per watt. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Carlsbad, most homeowners require a 2.8-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $5,370, or $7,679 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
These figures are just averages, and the cost of going solar for you will vary based on your specific situation and what company you want to go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically rewarding, with a net average savings of about $31,000 over 20 years on energy bills.
To receive a free estimate from a highly rated solar installation company in Carlsbad, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Carlsbad
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,302 |
| 3 years | $-5,149 |
| 5 years | $-4,995 |
| 7 years | $-4,841 |
| 9 years | $-4,688 |
| 11 years | $-4,534 |
| 13 years | $-4,381 |
| 15 years | $-4,227 |
| 17 years | $-4,073 |
| 19 years | $-3,920 |
| 21 years | $-3,766 |
| 23 years | $-3,613 |
| 25 years | $-3,459 |
Top Solar Installers in Carlsbad
DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Hiring an installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Solar companies provide key benefits that can help you maximize your investment, like warranties, monitoring and free repairs.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free quote on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some in Carlsbad:
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 Carlsbad
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Carlsbad
For many Carlsbad homeowners, the decision to go solar comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Carlsbad, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that considerably influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the notable 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 raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,730. The type of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Carlsbad average.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Carlsbad homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable. While solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Carlsbad homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system, depending on your interest rate and how long you take to pay off the loan. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can cut back on how much interest you have to pay.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will impact your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or additional services like electric car 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 | $37,188 | 6.1 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $49,889 | 6.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $62,744 | 5.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $75,751 | 5.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $88,911 | 5.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $102,224 | 5.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $115,690 | 5.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $129,309 | 5.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies available in Carlsbad, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a big role in the company you choose.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it's essential to keep an open line of communication with your solar panel company. See to it that you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
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 Carlsbad, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Carlsbad?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally 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 usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Carlsbad?
Solar panels aren't free in Carlsbad, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
How much can I save on electricity bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,637.07 per year.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels 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 typically 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.