Solar Panel Cost Guide in Garnet, CA (2024 Update)
- Garnet Solar Installation Cost: $6,803
- 25-Year Savings: $13,468
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Garnet
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Garnet.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Garnet, the typical cost of a solar system is 3 per watt.Since a 2.8-kW system is needed to cover the energy usage of a typical home in Garnet, the average price of going solar will be about $6,803 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Garnet homeowner. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor.With typical savings of about $26,000 on energy bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Garnet find investing in solar has a decent ROI.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Garnet
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,619 |
| 3 years | $-3,249 |
| 5 years | $-880 |
| 7 years | $1,490 |
| 9 years | $3,859 |
| 11 years | $6,229 |
| 13 years | $8,598 |
| 15 years | $10,968 |
| 17 years | $13,337 |
| 19 years | $15,707 |
| 21 years | $18,076 |
| 23 years | $20,446 |
| 25 years | $22,815 |
Top Solar Installers in Garnet
When switching to solar energy, many homeowners prefer to hire a solar installer since putting up solar panels yourself can be a challenging project. Local solar installation companies can also help you maximize your return on investment by walking you through any local incentives and by providing warranties and repairs.
If you're on the hunt for a solar installer in Garnet, the EcoWatch team has compiled 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 for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
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 Garnet
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Garnet
There are several factors that can determine your total installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of adopting solar energy is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more energy your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $3,470 per kilowatt in Garnet.There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also affects the cost. Usually, the brands that offer higher efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be much less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be challenging. Solar loans are available from most installers in Garnet, which can reduce, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your all-in costs, so it’s crucial to take that into consideration as well. You can always bring down 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 hire to handle your switch to renewable energy can play a part in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Garnet, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on 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 | $25,160 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $33,935 | 9.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $42,905 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $52,069 | 8.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $61,427 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $70,980 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $80,727 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $90,668 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Garnet, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the endurance of your solar panels, checking if your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can help put you at ease.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar company, be sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t 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.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type offers varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different price points as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Reputation: Make sure your solar installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
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
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 Garnet, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Garnet?
This is a difficult 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. It will be more expensive if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. Conversely, you can spend less if you opt for a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on your reasons for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to think about are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Garnet have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can receive compensation for the extra power your system produces 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 long do solar panels last in Garnet?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.
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.