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 Hollister homeowner needs a 2.9-kilowatt system, which would cost about $7,117 with the federal tax credit, or $10,177 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Hollister based on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire.With average savings of about $34,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Hollister find installing solar panels can pay off big.
Click the button below to get connected to a top solar panel company in Hollister for a custom quote.
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
DIY solar panel installation is a choice some homeowners opt for, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Using an installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar power, opting for a solar company can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives.
Working with a vetted solar company can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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 a number of factors that can affect your solar system installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the price of solar panels 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 largely based on your home’s energy usage, which you can determine by looking at past power bills. Your total cost can increase by about $3,470 for each additional kilowatt you need.The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these often come at a higher price than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you’re opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Hollister to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, nearly every solar installer in the area offers financing options. Solar loans substantially decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to paying more over time due to interest.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars more than the original cost. Making a larger down payment or securing a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The last key cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the massive popularity of clean energy solutions in Hollister, you’ll have many options to choose from, but each comes at different price points for labor and equipment.Additionally, some companies in Hollister know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.
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 many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel models and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, be sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you aren’t sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer different brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Warranty: A comprehensive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
- Installation Process: Get details from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, such as when the site survey will be done and how long it will take.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
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?
This is a difficult question to answer exactly, 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 other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Is cost the most important consideration when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important factors you should consider when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Hollister?
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 give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
How many solar panels should I get 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 take a 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 get 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.