Solar Panel Cost Guide in El Paso De Robles, CA (2023 Update)
- El Paso De Robles Solar Installation Cost: $5,504
- 25-Year Savings: $20,827
- Payback Period: 5.2 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in El Paso De Robles
Let's have a look at the average cost of solar in El Paso De Robles.
In El Paso De Robles, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 2.9-kW system would cost about $5,504 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The true cost of going solar can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with. Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a sound investment. The average homeowner in El Paso De Robles can save around $35,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in El Paso De Robles
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,450 |
| 3 years | $-2,344 |
| 5 years | $-237 |
| 7 years | $1,869 |
| 9 years | $3,975 |
| 11 years | $6,082 |
| 13 years | $8,188 |
| 15 years | $10,295 |
| 17 years | $12,401 |
| 19 years | $14,508 |
| 21 years | $16,614 |
| 23 years | $18,721 |
| 25 years | $20,827 |
Top Solar Installers in El Paso De Robles
Many homeowners decide to use a solar installation company since trying to install solar panels by yourself can be challenging. Plus, if you're not certain what brand of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar installer can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a licensed solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 El Paso De Robles
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in El Paso De Robles
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that will push your cost above or below the average in El Paso De Robles: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll cover each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $2,730. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like El Paso De Robles, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable route because they cut back your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average. It's wise to include the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a higher down payment, you can reduce your total costs and the amount of time it'll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Finally, the company you hire to install your solar system can impact the cost. El Paso De Robles' solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or promotions to compete with those major players.
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 | $43,009 | 5.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $57,651 | 5.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $72,446 | 5.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $87,394 | 5.1 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $102,494 | 5.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $117,748 | 4.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $133,154 | 4.8 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $148,714 | 4.7 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you find the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you'd like to install plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- Contract: When reading through your solar installer's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years likely provide good-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 El Paso De Robles, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in El Paso De Robles?
The average cost of solar panels in El Paso De Robles 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 things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in El Paso De Robles?
A solar panel system isn't free in El Paso De Robles, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.
Does El Paso De Robles have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don't have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels 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 generally produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average home 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.