Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chino Hills, CA (2024 Update)
- Chino Hills Solar Installation Cost: $6,973
- 25-Year Savings: $14,055
- Payback Period: 8.9 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chino Hills
We break down average solar pricing in Chino Hills.
In Chino Hills, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.Using this figure, a typical 2.9-kW system would cost about $6,973 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The exact cost of installing solar panels can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $26,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Chino Hills
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,788 |
| 3 years | $-3,419 |
| 5 years | $-1,049 |
| 7 years | $1,320 |
| 9 years | $3,690 |
| 11 years | $6,059 |
| 13 years | $8,429 |
| 15 years | $10,798 |
| 17 years | $13,168 |
| 19 years | $15,537 |
| 21 years | $17,907 |
| 23 years | $20,276 |
| 25 years | $22,646 |
Top Solar Installers in Chino Hills
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners prefer to go with a solar company since putting up solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming project. Since solar panels are exposed to temperature swings and extreme weather, warranties and repairs from your solar installer can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by reducing potential costs down the line.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can take care of your solar installation project. Here are our suggestions:
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 Chino Hills
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chino Hills
The cost of installing a solar system in Chino Hills can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it’s important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The brand and type of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted 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 can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That’s why many Chino Hills homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable.However, the interest on solar loans also increases your overall costs, so it’s vital to keep that in mind as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The final significant cost factor you should keep in mind is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of clean energy solutions in Chino Hills, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Chino Hills know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about 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 | $25,685 | 9.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $34,635 | 9.1 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $43,780 | 8.9 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $53,119 | 8.7 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $62,652 | 8.6 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $72,380 | 8.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $82,302 | 8.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $92,418 | 8.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you go with will affect not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should consider, such as:
- Warranty: If you’re worried about the durability of your solar energy system, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good 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 support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it’s necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project completion timeline.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, 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 part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
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 Chino Hills, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Chino Hills?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want additional solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider in addition to cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Does Chino Hills have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can be compensated 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 long do solar panels last in Chino Hills?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
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.