Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hollister, CA (2023 Update)
- Hollister Solar Installation Cost: $5,599
- 25-Year Savings: $20,732
- Payback Period: 5.3 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hollister
Here's how much it might cost to install solar panels in Hollister.
The average cost of a solar system in Hollister is 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 2.9-kW system would cost about $5,599 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much solar panels could cost. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what solar installer you go with. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $34,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
For a free quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Hollister
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,546 |
| 3 years | $-2,440 |
| 5 years | $-333 |
| 7 years | $1,773 |
| 9 years | $3,880 |
| 11 years | $5,986 |
| 13 years | $8,093 |
| 15 years | $10,199 |
| 17 years | $12,306 |
| 19 years | $14,412 |
| 21 years | $16,519 |
| 23 years | $18,625 |
| 25 years | $20,732 |
Top Solar Installers in Hollister
Many homeowners choose to use a solar panel company since installing solar panels on your own can be hard. The expertise that solar companies provide can be valuable as well, particularly if you don't quite know what type of solar equipment you need.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. Here are our recommendations:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
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 Hollister
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hollister
While the average cost of a solar system in Hollister is $5,599, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar system installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of a solar energy system in Hollister, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are primarily based on your home's energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by about $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. There are several different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. In many cases, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. In addition, the type of equipment you choose 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
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Hollister homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to put more money down upfront, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you opt for to install your solar panel system can impact how much you pay. Hollister's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It's best to do some research and choose a company that has the products, warranties and services you want and also is within your budget.
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 | $41,996 | 5.5 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $56,300 | 5.4 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $70,757 | 5.3 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $85,368 | 5.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $100,131 | 5.1 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $115,047 | 5.0 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $130,115 | 4.9 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $145,337 | 4.8 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar panel company you choose will impact not only your total costs, but also the kinds of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should consider, such as:
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be completed and what the project timeline is.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good 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 satisfied reviews from previous customers.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and kind has varying levels of quality, durability and energy efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
- Contract: Review the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the overall cost, project completion timeline incentives and warranties.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
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 Hollister, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Hollister?
The average cost of solar panels in Hollister 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 stuff such as the model 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?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In areas where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can trump the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Is it worth going solar in Hollister?
Whether or not solar panels are worth it depends on a variety of factors like how much you pay for electricity and how much direct sunlight your roof gets.
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 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.