Solar Panel Cost Guide in Carpinteria, CA (2023 Update)
- Carpinteria Solar Installation Cost: $5,370
- 25-Year Savings: $13,399
- Payback Period: 7.2 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Carpinteria
We break down average solar pricing in Carpinteria.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Carpinteria it's 2.73 per watt. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Carpinteria, most homeowners require a 2.8-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $5,370, or $7,679 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The true cost of your system can go above or below the average in Carpinteria based on several factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Even with the significant upfront cost, the average Carpinteria homeowner can save around $25,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Carpinteria
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,619 |
| 3 years | $-3,118 |
| 5 years | $-1,616 |
| 7 years | $-115 |
| 9 years | $1,387 |
| 11 years | $2,888 |
| 13 years | $4,390 |
| 15 years | $5,891 |
| 17 years | $7,393 |
| 19 years | $8,895 |
| 21 years | $10,396 |
| 23 years | $11,898 |
| 25 years | $13,399 |
Top Solar Installers in Carpinteria
DIY solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using an installer can make converting 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 you.
Working with a professional solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. 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
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Carpinteria
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Carpinteria
For many Carpinteria homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Carpinteria, 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
One of the most significant 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 power your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,730 per kilowatt in Carpinteria. 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 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 in the long run on your power bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Carpinteria average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Carpinteria provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. Although solar loans make adopting solar energy more accessible for Carpinteria homeowners, they can also increase the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you make a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Carpinteria, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have 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 | $28,090 | 7.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $37,760 | 7.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $47,582 | 7.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $57,557 | 7.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $67,685 | 6.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $77,965 | 6.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $88,399 | 6.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $98,986 | 6.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on 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:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different costs as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Even though reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar, it's important to keep an open line of communication with your solar company. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Reputation: Long-running companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Carpinteria, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Carpinteria?
This is a hard 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 extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Carpinteria?
Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any incentives and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
How much can I save on power bills after installing solar panels?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located 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 $1,333.84 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 requires 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.