Solar Panel Cost Guide in Diamond Springs, CA (2023 Update)
- Diamond Springs Solar Installation Cost: $5,886
- 25-Year Savings: $19,806
- Payback Period: 5.7 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Diamond Springs
See how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Diamond Springs.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Diamond Springs, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.73 per watt. The average Diamond Springs homeowner needs a 3.1-kilowatt system, which would cost about $5,886 with the federal tax credit, or $8,417 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and the cost of going solar for you may vary based on the amount of energy your home requires and what company you go with. With typical savings of about $32,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Diamond Springs find going solar can be quite rewarding.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Diamond Springs that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Diamond Springs
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,858 |
| 3 years | $-2,803 |
| 5 years | $-747 |
| 7 years | $1,308 |
| 9 years | $3,363 |
| 11 years | $5,419 |
| 13 years | $7,474 |
| 15 years | $9,529 |
| 17 years | $11,585 |
| 19 years | $13,640 |
| 21 years | $15,695 |
| 23 years | $17,751 |
| 25 years | $19,806 |
Top Solar Installers in Diamond Springs
When making the switch to solar, many homeowners decide to use a solar installer since installing a solar system yourself can be a difficult project. A solar installer can also help save you money in the long run by providing warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you're looking for a solar company in Diamond Springs, the EcoWatch team has put together 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 Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Diamond Springs
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Diamond Springs
The cost of installing a solar system in Diamond Springs can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
One of the most important 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 uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to pay about $2,730 per kilowatt in Diamond Springs. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Diamond Springs, 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
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are available from most installers in Diamond Springs, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to green energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Diamond Springs, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment. Companies that 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 come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and decide on the company that provides the products, warranties and services you want and also fits within 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 | $38,047 | 6.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $51,035 | 5.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $64,175 | 5.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $77,469 | 5.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $90,916 | 5.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $104,515 | 5.4 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $118,268 | 5.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $132,173 | 5.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands available to you, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since picking a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar installers carry 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.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel company. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the completion timeline.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren't sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for clean energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can look into your installer's reputation is by reading reviews.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Diamond Springs, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Diamond Springs?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my power bills?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,665.71 per year.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically 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.