Solar Panel Cost Guide in Empire, CA (2023 Update)
- Empire Solar Installation Cost: $5,714
- 25-Year Savings: $20,481
- Payback Period: 5.4 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Empire
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Empire.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Empire, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 3.0-kW system would cost about $5,714 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The exact cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. Many homeowners find installing solar panels is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Empire can save around $33,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar expert, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Empire
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,666 |
| 3 years | $-2,571 |
| 5 years | $-475 |
| 7 years | $1,621 |
| 9 years | $3,716 |
| 11 years | $5,812 |
| 13 years | $7,907 |
| 15 years | $10,003 |
| 17 years | $12,099 |
| 19 years | $14,194 |
| 21 years | $16,290 |
| 23 years | $18,385 |
| 25 years | $20,481 |
Top Solar Installers in Empire
Although it's possible to install solar panels yourself, it takes extra energy and expertise. That's why most homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Companies can also have access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you choose which one will be right for you.
If you're searching for a solar company in Empire, we've 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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Empire
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Empire
The cost of installing a solar system in Empire can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost is dependent on several factors. The most significant one is your system size, and other factors include equipment choices, financing options and the solar installer you choose.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you pick also affects the cost. In many cases, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also cost more. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to get can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels out of pocket is out of reach, solar loans are an affordable route because they reduce your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years. When figuring out 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
A final consideration when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Empire is the company you hire to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to renovate your kitchen, for instance, there's no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points. The company's size can sometimes play the most significant role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower pricing due to more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they can sometimes have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount 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 | $2.84 | $11,925 | $40,676 | 5.7 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $54,540 | 5.6 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $68,557 | 5.4 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $82,728 | 5.3 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $97,051 | 5.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $111,526 | 5.1 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $126,155 | 5.0 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $140,937 | 4.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your system installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Because selecting a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you want to get plays a part in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a component breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a respected certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it most likely has a good 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 Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Empire, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Empire?
The average cost of solar panels in Empire 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 like the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in Empire?
A solar panel system isn't free in Empire, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
How much can I save on electricity bills after installing solar panels?
It is possible to eliminate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners throughout Empire, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.
How long do solar panels last in Empire?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them after having them for that long or you can keep using them at a lower efficiency.
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.