Solar Panel Cost Guide in Clearlake Riviera, CA (2023 Update)
- Clearlake Riviera Solar Installation Cost: $5,848
- 25-Year Savings: $20,483
- Payback Period: 5.6 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Clearlake Riviera
Find out how much it might cost to go solar in Clearlake Riviera.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Clearlake Riviera it's 2.73 per watt. Since a 3.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Clearlake Riviera, the average price of going solar will be about $5,848 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you will most likely vary based on your specific situation and what company you go with. Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a rewarding investment. The average homeowner in Clearlake Riviera can save around $33,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
To see your potential savings and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Clearlake Riviera
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,794 |
| 3 years | $-2,688 |
| 5 years | $-581 |
| 7 years | $1,525 |
| 9 years | $3,632 |
| 11 years | $5,738 |
| 13 years | $7,844 |
| 15 years | $9,951 |
| 17 years | $12,057 |
| 19 years | $14,164 |
| 21 years | $16,270 |
| 23 years | $18,377 |
| 25 years | $20,483 |
Top Solar Installers in Clearlake Riviera
Trying to put up solar panels yourself can be a difficult task, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also offer access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be best for your family.
If you're searching for a solar company in Clearlake Riviera, we've compiled 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
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 Clearlake Riviera
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Clearlake Riviera
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Clearlake Riviera: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with higher efficiency or power production require 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. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more expensive upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Clearlake Riviera, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Clearlake Riviera to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans greatly decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to paying more over time because of interest. When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar system can affect how much you pay. Clearlake Riviera's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and go with the company that provides the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also fit into your budget.
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 | $39,680 | 5.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $53,212 | 5.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $66,898 | 5.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $80,736 | 5.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $94,727 | 5.3 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $108,871 | 5.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $123,168 | 5.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $137,617 | 5.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will influence not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, longevity and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- 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 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
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 Clearlake Riviera, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Clearlake Riviera?
The average cost of solar panels in Clearlake Riviera 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 certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Clearlake Riviera have a net metering program?
The majority of states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.