Solar Panel Cost Guide in Citrus Heights, CA (2023 Update)
- Citrus Heights Solar Installation Cost: $5,894
- 25-Year Savings: $16,945
- Payback Period: 6.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Citrus Heights
We break down average solar pricing in Citrus Heights.
In Citrus Heights, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. Because a 3.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Citrus Heights, the average price of going solar will be about $5,886 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
These figures are just estimates, and how much solar costs for you may differ based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $28,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Citrus Heights for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Citrus Heights
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,817 |
| 3 years | $-5,665 |
| 5 years | $-5,513 |
| 7 years | $-5,361 |
| 9 years | $-5,208 |
| 11 years | $-5,056 |
| 13 years | $-4,904 |
| 15 years | $-4,752 |
| 17 years | $-4,599 |
| 19 years | $-4,447 |
| 21 years | $-4,295 |
| 23 years | $-4,143 |
| 25 years | $-3,990 |
Top Solar Installers in Citrus Heights
Installing solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming undertaking, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run with their warranties, repair services and expert design.
If you're on the hunt for a solar company in Citrus Heights, the EcoWatch team has organized 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
See all of the solar companies in Citrus Heights
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Citrus Heights
For many Citrus Heights homeowners, the decision to adopt solar energy depends on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Citrus Heights, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the key factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production 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. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Citrus Heights, which can lower, or in some cases totally eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. While solar loans make going solar more accessible for Citrus Heights homeowners, they can also add to the total you pay for your system due to interest. If you put down a larger down payment, though, you can avoid paying as much in interest.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panels can play a role in determining the cost. Citrus Heights' solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to 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 | $32,507 | 6.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $43,649 | 6.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $54,943 | 6.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $66,390 | 6.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $77,990 | 6.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $89,743 | 6.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $101,649 | 5.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $113,708 | 5.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installer you choose greatly impacts 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: Different companies will carry different brands and models of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
- Warranty: If you're concerned about the endurance of your solar panels, verifying that your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand what services your solar company will provide and the terms of the warranty.
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 Citrus Heights, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Citrus Heights?
The average cost of solar panels in Citrus Heights is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my energy bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Citrus Heights, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
Though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.