Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hollister, CA (2024 Update)
- Hollister Solar Installation Cost: $7,117
- 25-Year Savings: $20,732
- Payback Period: 6.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hollister
We break down average solar pricing in Hollister.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Hollister it’s 3 per watt.The average solar panel system size in Hollister is around 2.9 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $7,117 for a solar installation, or $10,177 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs may vary based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with.Even with the large upfront cost, the average Hollister homeowner can save around $34,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the benefits of solar.
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 Hollister
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,579 |
| 3 years | $-2,503 |
| 5 years | $573 |
| 7 years | $3,648 |
| 9 years | $6,724 |
| 11 years | $9,800 |
| 13 years | $12,876 |
| 15 years | $15,952 |
| 17 years | $19,027 |
| 19 years | $22,103 |
| 21 years | $25,179 |
| 23 years | $28,255 |
| 25 years | $31,331 |
Top Solar Installers in Hollister
Putting up solar panels on your own can be a challenging undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. In addition, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar energy, using a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer repairs, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives.
If you’d like to start using solar energy but still aren’t sure which solar panel company to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Hollister:
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 Hollister
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hollister
There are many factors that can affect your solar panel 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 going solar 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 pay about $3,470 per kilowatt in Hollister.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — are more costly upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Hollister, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don’t have a lot of space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are provided by most installers in Hollister, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable.It’s a good idea to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installer you choose will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar . Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices due to their bigger brand name and access to bulk pricing, 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 | $3.61 | $15,157 | $38,764 | 7.0 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $52,073 | 6.9 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $65,577 | 6.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $79,276 | 6.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $93,169 | 6.5 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $107,256 | 6.4 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $121,537 | 6.2 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $136,013 | 6.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies to choose from in Hollister, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make 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 the warranty covers and if there are any guarantees about energy production.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you’re considering has it.
- Warranty: Companies typically offer different kinds of warranties that provide different kinds of coverage. A 25-year, all-inclusive warranty is the gold standard.
- Installation Process: Homeowners should understand how exactly the installation process will be carried out, as well as important factors like the project timeline.
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 Hollister, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Hollister?
The average cost of solar panels in Hollister is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual 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 thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
Cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it’s the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Hollister have a net metering program?
Most states offer net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either get paid for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future utility bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
How many solar panels do I need to power my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy usage 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 cover 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.