Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hilmar Irwin, CA (2023 Update)
- Hilmar Irwin Solar Installation Cost: $5,657
- 25-Year Savings: $19,706
- Payback Period: 5.6 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hilmar Irwin
See how much it might cost to go solar in Hilmar Irwin.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Hilmar Irwin typically cost around 2.73. The average solar panel system size in Hilmar Irwin is around 3.0 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $5,657 for a solar installation, or $8,090 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average Hilmar Irwin 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. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $33,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Hilmar Irwin
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,642 |
| 3 years | $-2,613 |
| 5 years | $-584 |
| 7 years | $1,445 |
| 9 years | $3,474 |
| 11 years | $5,503 |
| 13 years | $7,532 |
| 15 years | $9,561 |
| 17 years | $11,590 |
| 19 years | $13,619 |
| 21 years | $15,648 |
| 23 years | $17,677 |
| 25 years | $19,706 |
Top Solar Installers in Hilmar Irwin
Many homeowners decide to hire a solar installer since trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a labor-intensive endeavor. Companies can also provide access to quality options of the best solar panels and help you decide which one will be best for you.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some nearby:
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 Hilmar Irwin
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hilmar Irwin
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners wanting to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Hilmar Irwin: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar panel system in Hilmar Irwin, 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 consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you pick also changes the cost. Typically, the brands that are more efficient tend to also be more expensive. Additionally, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far 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 financially overwhelming. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Hilmar Irwin, which can lower, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panel system can play a part in determining how much it costs. Hilmar Irwin's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their larger brand name and access to bulk equipment prices, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials to compete with those larger companies.
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 | $39,432 | 5.8 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $52,882 | 5.7 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $66,485 | 5.6 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $80,240 | 5.5 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $94,149 | 5.4 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $108,210 | 5.2 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $122,424 | 5.1 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $136,791 | 5.0 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. While there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to ask for their list of offerings before making your decision.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panel system running smoothly and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a sound reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. Two ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from previous customers.
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, 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 what services you can expect from them.
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 Hilmar Irwin, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Hilmar Irwin?
The average cost of solar panels in Hilmar Irwin is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on certain factors such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is a crucial factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In cities 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 Hilmar Irwin have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out how many solar panels you need, you need to know how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average household 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.