Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clearlake Riviera, CA (2024 Update)
- Clearlake Riviera Solar Installation Cost: $7,436
- 25-Year Savings: $20,481
- Payback Period: 7.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Clearlake Riviera
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Clearlake Riviera.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Clearlake Riviera it’s 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 3.1-kW system would cost about $7,436 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in Clearlake Riviera based on a few factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire.Many homeowners find adopting solar power is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Clearlake Riviera can save around $33,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
For a free quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Clearlake Riviera
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,898 |
| 3 years | $-2,823 |
| 5 years | $253 |
| 7 years | $3,329 |
| 9 years | $6,405 |
| 11 years | $9,481 |
| 13 years | $12,556 |
| 15 years | $15,632 |
| 17 years | $18,708 |
| 19 years | $21,784 |
| 21 years | $24,860 |
| 23 years | $27,935 |
| 25 years | $31,011 |
Top Solar Installers in Clearlake Riviera
Many homeowners opt for a solar panel installer since trying to install solar panels on your own can be a lot of work. Companies can also offer access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your family.
If you’d like to go solar but still aren’t sure which solar company to go with, here are our suggestions for providers near you:
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 Clearlake Riviera
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clearlake Riviera
The cost of installing a solar system in Clearlake Riviera can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $3,470 per kilowatt in Clearlake Riviera.There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you’re looking to get 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
Most solar installers in Clearlake Riviera have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Clearlake Riviera, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Clearlake Riviera have more knowledge 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 end up saving you 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 | $36,448 | 7.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $48,985 | 7.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $61,718 | 7.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $74,644 | 6.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $87,765 | 6.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $101,080 | 6.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $114,589 | 6.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $128,293 | 6.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose impacts which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: It’s important to look over your solar installer’s contract fully to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the project timeline.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Clearlake Riviera, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Clearlake Riviera?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 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 above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
What other factors should I consider apart from cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Solar panels can be a good investment for lots of homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your energy bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
What solar power system size is right for 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 account for 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.