Solar Panel Cost Guide in Gardena, CA (2023 Update)
- Gardena Solar Installation Cost: $5,444
- 25-Year Savings: $14,724
- Payback Period: 6.7 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Gardena
We go over average solar pricing in Gardena.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Gardena typically cost about 2.73. To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Gardena, most homeowners require a 2.9-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $5,446, or $7,788 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Gardena based on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. Even with the significant initial cost, the average Gardena homeowner can save around $27,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the advantages of solar.
To receive a free quote from a highly rated solar installer in Gardena, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Gardena
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,260 |
| 3 years | $-1,890 |
| 5 years | $479 |
| 7 years | $2,849 |
| 9 years | $5,218 |
| 11 years | $7,588 |
| 13 years | $9,957 |
| 15 years | $12,327 |
| 17 years | $14,696 |
| 19 years | $17,066 |
| 21 years | $19,435 |
| 23 years | $21,805 |
| 25 years | $24,174 |
Top Solar Installers in Gardena
Although you can install solar panels yourself, it requires extra time and know-how. That's why almost all homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. Local solar companies can also help you optimize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives and by offering warranties and repairs.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
See all of the solar companies in Gardena
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Gardena
Cost is usually one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in Gardena: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar system in Gardena, one of the most crucial 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 usage, which you can determine by looking at past energy bills. Your total cost can increase by around $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. The type of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get 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, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Gardena average.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Gardena offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar panels. However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your overall costs, so it's vital to include that in your estimate as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. You may see national solar installers that have lower prices because of their bigger brand name and access to bulk 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 | $30,551 | 7.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $41,040 | 6.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $51,682 | 6.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $62,477 | 6.6 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $73,425 | 6.5 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $84,526 | 6.3 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $95,779 | 6.2 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $107,186 | 6.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's efficiency, production, and durability, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer different brands and kinds of panels. If you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over around 25 years are the gold standard in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a quality company.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure to look it over carefully 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 if there are any guarantees about energy production.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Gardena, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Gardena?
The average cost of solar panels in Gardena is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Gardena?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or secure a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your property value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Is going solar worth it?
Solar panels can be a great investment for most homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your energy bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can 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 install 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.