Solar Panel Cost Guide in East Palo Alto, CA (2023 Update)
- East Palo Alto Solar Installation Cost: $5,867
- 25-Year Savings: $18,652
- Payback Period: 6.0 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in East Palo Alto
We go over average solar pricing in East Palo Alto.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in East Palo Alto it's 2.73 per watt. The average solar panel system size in East Palo Alto is around 3.1 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,867 for a solar installation, or $8,390 before the 30% 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 actual cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit depending on multiple factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. With typical savings of about $30,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in East Palo Alto find going solar can pay off big.
To receive a free estimate from a pre-vetted solar installer in East Palo Alto, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in East Palo Alto
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,886 |
| 3 years | $-2,925 |
| 5 years | $-963 |
| 7 years | $998 |
| 9 years | $2,960 |
| 11 years | $4,921 |
| 13 years | $6,883 |
| 15 years | $8,844 |
| 17 years | $10,806 |
| 19 years | $12,767 |
| 21 years | $14,729 |
| 23 years | $16,690 |
| 25 years | $18,652 |
Top Solar Installers in East Palo Alto
Trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a difficult project, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you want, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. 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 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 East Palo Alto
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in East Palo Alto
The cost of installing a solar system in East Palo Alto can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is determined by several factors. The biggest one is the size of the system your household needs, and other factors include the equipment you choose, 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 going solar 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 pay around $2,730 per kilowatt in East Palo Alto. The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the East Palo Alto average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system in cash is difficult, solar loans are an affordable route because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying more on your down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you get to install your solar panel system can influence how much it costs. East Palo Alto's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in East Palo Alto are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save 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 | $2.84 | $11,925 | $36,016 | 6.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $48,327 | 6.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $60,791 | 6.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $73,408 | 5.9 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $86,177 | 5.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $99,100 | 5.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $112,175 | 5.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $125,404 | 5.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the kind of solar panels and the installer you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Look through the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
- Warranty: A 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: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels based on their locations and energy needs. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you ask for their list of offerings before deciding.
- Reputation: Solar companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 East Palo Alto, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in East Palo Alto?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally 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 be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the other hand, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is definitely one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can solar panels significantly reduce my power bills?
It is possible to erase your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in East Palo Alto, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have the roof space for that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
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 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 household 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.