Solar Panel Cost Guide in Freedom, CA (2023 Update)
- Freedom Solar Installation Cost: $5,867
- 25-Year Savings: $20,464
- Payback Period: 5.6 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Freedom
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Freedom.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Freedom, the average cost of solar panels is 2.73 per watt. The average solar panel system size in Freedom 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.
How much you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Freedom based on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Many homeowners find going solar is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Freedom can save around $33,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar company in Freedom, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Freedom
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,814 |
| 3 years | $-2,707 |
| 5 years | $-601 |
| 7 years | $1,506 |
| 9 years | $3,612 |
| 11 years | $5,719 |
| 13 years | $7,825 |
| 15 years | $9,932 |
| 17 years | $12,038 |
| 19 years | $14,145 |
| 21 years | $16,251 |
| 23 years | $18,358 |
| 25 years | $20,464 |
Top Solar Installers in Freedom
Trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.
If you'd like to go solar but still aren't certain which solar company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Freedom:
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 Freedom
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Freedom
While the average cost of a solar system in Freedom is $5,867, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Freedom, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are mainly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can determine by looking at past electricity bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Freedom, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of 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
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Freedom to be too steep, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to a higher cost over time due to interest. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the principal cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panels can impact how much you pay. Freedom's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Freedom have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you learn about 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 | $2.84 | $11,925 | $39,491 | 5.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $52,961 | 5.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $66,583 | 5.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $80,359 | 5.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $94,287 | 5.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $108,368 | 5.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $122,602 | 5.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $136,989 | 5.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the model of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by verifying it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer different brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you're considering has it.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panel system running for a long time and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Contract: It's important to read through your solar installer's contract well to understand what services they will provide, what the warranty covers and what you can expect about the installation process.
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 Freedom, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Freedom?
This is a hard question to answer exactly, 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 be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Freedom?
Solar panels aren't free in Freedom, 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 energy bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,713.87 per year.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses 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.