Solar Panel Cost Guide in Galt, CA (2024 Update)
- Galt Solar Installation Cost: $7,491
- 25-Year Savings: $18,686
- Payback Period: 7.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Galt
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Galt.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Galt it’s 3 per watt.Because a 3.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Galt, the average price of going solar will be about $7,491 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
Remember that the numbers above are only averages. The price you’ll end up paying for solar may vary based on your household energy consumption, the type of solar system you want to get, your solar contractor and more.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $30,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar installation company in Galt, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Galt
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,953 |
| 3 years | $-2,877 |
| 5 years | $198 |
| 7 years | $3,274 |
| 9 years | $6,350 |
| 11 years | $9,426 |
| 13 years | $12,502 |
| 15 years | $15,577 |
| 17 years | $18,653 |
| 19 years | $21,729 |
| 21 years | $24,805 |
| 23 years | $27,881 |
| 25 years | $30,956 |
Top Solar Installers in Galt
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can take a lot of hard work. Using a solar panel installer can make converting to solar power much easier. Local solar installation companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. Here are our suggestions:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- 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 Galt
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Galt
Although the average cost of a solar system in Galt is $7,491, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are many factors that can have a sizable impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel 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 $3,470. The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, higher efficiency could save you more over time on your power bills. In addition, extra products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Galt average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Galt to be too expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to paying more over time due to interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, 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 getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Galt, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies usually have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra services like electric vehicle charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $32,664 | 7.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $43,940 | 7.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $55,411 | 7.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $67,076 | 7.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $78,936 | 7.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $90,989 | 7.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $103,237 | 7.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $115,680 | 6.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installer you choose significantly influences your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Warranty: A high-quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, be sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which type of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you take a look at their list of offerings before deciding.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s necessary to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process works and the project timeline.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Galt, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Galt?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you go with a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Should I lease or buy solar panels in Galt?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won’t be able to save as much. If you lease, you don’t own the system, so you can’t claim any incentives and your home value won’t increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to get the most savings.
Is switching to solar power worth it?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like local electricity rates and the amount of direct sunlight your roof gets.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.