Solar Panel Cost Guide in Copperopolis, CA (2024 Update)
- Copperopolis Solar Installation Cost: $7,416
- 25-Year Savings: $20,406
- Payback Period: 7.1 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Copperopolis
Let’s take a look at the average cost of solar in Copperopolis.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Copperopolis, the average cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Copperopolis, most homeowners require a 3.1-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $7,416, or $10,605 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Copperopolis homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Copperopolis can save around $33,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Copperopolis
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,878 |
| 3 years | $-2,802 |
| 5 years | $273 |
| 7 years | $3,349 |
| 9 years | $6,425 |
| 11 years | $9,501 |
| 13 years | $12,577 |
| 15 years | $15,652 |
| 17 years | $18,728 |
| 19 years | $21,804 |
| 21 years | $24,880 |
| 23 years | $27,956 |
| 25 years | $31,031 |
Top Solar Installers in Copperopolis
Installing solar panels yourself can be a time-consuming task, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long term because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
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 Copperopolis
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Copperopolis
For many Copperopolis homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Copperopolis, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that considerably influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of solar panels in Copperopolis, one of the most crucial 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 usage, which you can determine by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $3,470 for each additional kilowatt you need.The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your power bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Copperopolis average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular route because they decrease your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.It’s wise to factor the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you hire to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Copperopolis, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.The company’s size can sometimes play the most considerable role in the installation costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of greater resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing down to compete with bigger 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 | $36,410 | 7.3 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $48,935 | 7.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $61,654 | 7.1 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $74,568 | 6.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $87,676 | 6.8 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $100,979 | 6.6 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $114,475 | 6.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $128,167 | 6.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Copperopolis, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking its work history and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned 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 repairing your electrical system or roof.
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will have various brands and types of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
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 Copperopolis, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Copperopolis?
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 other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Copperopolis?
A solar panel system isn’t free in Copperopolis, but there are some options that can make getting them more viable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Does Copperopolis have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually 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.