Solar Panel Cost Guide in Commerce, CA (2024 Update)
- Commerce Solar Installation Cost: $6,920
- 25-Year Savings: $13,630
- Payback Period: 9.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Commerce
Here’s how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Commerce.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Commerce, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.Using this figure, a typical 2.8-kW system would cost about $6,920 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 panel system could cost. The true cost of going solar can vary depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.Many homeowners find installing a solar panel system is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Commerce can save about $25,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Commerce
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,834 |
| 3 years | $-3,662 |
| 5 years | $-1,490 |
| 7 years | $682 |
| 9 years | $2,854 |
| 11 years | $5,026 |
| 13 years | $7,198 |
| 15 years | $9,370 |
| 17 years | $11,542 |
| 19 years | $13,714 |
| 21 years | $15,886 |
| 23 years | $18,058 |
| 25 years | $20,230 |
Top Solar Installers in Commerce
When going solar, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installation company since putting up solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. A solar installer can also help save you money over the lifespan of your system by offering warranties, repairs and part replacements.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. 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 Commerce
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Commerce
For many Commerce homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Commerce, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Commerce, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are largely based on your home’s energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $3,470 for each additional kilowatt you need.The kind of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will significantly affect costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more costly. Furthermore, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Commerce offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it’s crucial to include that in your estimate as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and possibly even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should consider is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of clean energy solutions in Commerce, you’ll have a great number of options to choose from, but each comes at varying price points for labor and equipment.You may see national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $25,014 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $33,741 | 9.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $42,662 | 9.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $51,777 | 8.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $61,087 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $70,591 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $80,289 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $90,182 | 8.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you opt for will be a major factor in determining 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 some important things you should take into account, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you opt for.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for a long time and save you money on repairs and maintenance.
- Reputation: Long-running 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.
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 Commerce, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Commerce?
The average cost of solar panels in Commerce is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Commerce?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Commerce. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Is it worth going solar in Commerce?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
How long do solar panels last in Commerce?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level 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.