Solar Panel Cost Guide in Fillmore, CA (2024 Update)

  • Fillmore Solar Installation Cost: $6,958
  • 25-Year Savings: $13,295
  • Payback Period: 9.3 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Fillmore

Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Fillmore.

The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Fillmore it’s 3 per watt.Since a 2.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Fillmore, the average price of going solar will be about $6,958 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with.Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Fillmore can save about $25,000 on their power bills over 20 years.

You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Fillmore that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.

Solar savings over time in Fillmore

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-5,773
3 years $-3,403
5 years $-1,034
7 years $1,336
9 years $3,705
11 years $6,075
13 years $8,444
15 years $10,814
17 years $13,183
19 years $15,553
21 years $17,922
23 years $20,292
25 years $22,661

Top Solar Installers in Fillmore

DIY solar panel installation is a possibility, but it's an undertaking that can be a headache. Going with an installer can make swapping over to solar power much easier. Solar warranties and repairs are ordinarily included in the cost of installation when you opt for a solar contractor too, which can save you more money over time.

Working with a professional solar installer can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • 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 Fillmore

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Fillmore

Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Fillmore: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We’ll discuss 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 significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by nearly $3,470. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Fillmore, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited 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

For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in Fillmore, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.It’s a good idea 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 how long it’ll take to pay off the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you select will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.Additionally, some companies in Fillmore know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. 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 $3.61 $15,157 $24,158 9.6 years
8 kW $3.54 $19,821 $32,600 9.5 years
10 kW $3.47 $24,290 $41,236 9.3 years
12 kW $3.40 $28,565 $50,066 9.1 years
14 kW $3.33 $32,646 $59,090 8.9 years
16 kW $3.26 $36,532 $68,309 8.7 years
18 kW $3.19 $40,224 $77,722 8.5 years
20 kW $3.12 $43,722 $87,329 8.3 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar installer you opt for will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should consider, including:

  • Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose affects which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you read it through completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re unsure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
  • Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide quality aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Fillmore, CA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Fillmore?

This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. You can expect to pay more if you want extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Are solar panels free in Fillmore?

A solar panel system isn’t free in Fillmore, 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 can further reduce the cost.

Does Fillmore have a net metering program?

Most states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system generates or or receive credits to put toward future electricity bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

Although 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 the amount of energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can continue to use 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.

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