Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chino, CA (Mar 2023)
- Chino Solar Installation Cost: $5,485
- 25-Year Savings: $13,861
- Payback Period: 7.1 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chino
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar panels in Chino.
In Chino, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. The average solar panel system size in Chino is around 2.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,485 for a solar installation, or $7,844 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you'll pay for solar may look quite different based on your household energy needs, the type of equipment you choose, your solar contractor and more. For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average homeowners in Chino see about $26,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar installer in Chino that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Chino
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,711 |
| 3 years | $-3,163 |
| 5 years | $-1,615 |
| 7 years | $-68 |
| 9 years | $1,480 |
| 11 years | $3,028 |
| 13 years | $4,575 |
| 15 years | $6,123 |
| 17 years | $7,671 |
| 19 years | $9,218 |
| 21 years | $10,766 |
| 23 years | $12,314 |
| 25 years | $13,861 |
Top Solar Installers in Chino
Putting up solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming project, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. A solar installer can also help save you money over time by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you'd like to make the switch to solar but still aren't sure which solar system company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers in Chino:
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 Chino
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chino
While the average cost of a solar system in Chino is $5,485, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production 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 kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for 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 power bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Chino average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Chino offer solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing a solar system. It's wise 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 off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to keep in mind when trying to estimate the cost of solar for your home or business in Chino is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for example, there's no shortage of solar installers that offer a range of services for different budgets. You may come across national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those major players.
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 | $28,508 | 7.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $38,317 | 7.2 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $48,279 | 7.1 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $58,393 | 6.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $68,660 | 6.8 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $79,080 | 6.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $89,653 | 6.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $100,379 | 6.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will affect not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, including:
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract closely to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what expectations you should have about the installation process.
- Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a solid 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.
- Warranty: Each company may offer different types of warranties that cover different things. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you need to install plays a role in which company you should opt for, since different companies provide 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 Chino, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Chino?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 cost more if you want other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Chino?
Solar panels aren't free in Chino, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can help lower the cost.
Does Chino have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to install between 20 and 35 panels to cover their typical energy usage.
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.