Solar Panel Cost Guide in Hughson, CA (2024 Update)
- Hughson Solar Installation Cost: $7,258
- 25-Year Savings: $19,032
- Payback Period: 7.3 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Hughson
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Hughson.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Hughson it’s 3 per watt.The average Hughson homeowner needs a 3.0-kilowatt system, which would cost about $7,258 with the federal tax credit, or $10,379 before the 0 tax credit is applied.
These figures are just estimates, and how much solar costs for you will differ based on your specific situation and what company you choose to go with.For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $31,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a top solar company in Hughson that can help you get a more accurate cost estimate for your home.
Solar savings over time in Hughson
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-6,087 |
| 3 years | $-3,746 |
| 5 years | $-1,406 |
| 7 years | $935 |
| 9 years | $3,276 |
| 11 years | $5,617 |
| 13 years | $7,958 |
| 15 years | $10,299 |
| 17 years | $12,640 |
| 19 years | $14,980 |
| 21 years | $17,321 |
| 23 years | $19,662 |
| 25 years | $22,003 |
Top Solar Installers in Hughson
Installing solar panels yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Companies can also provide access to various kinds of the best solar panels and help you pick which one will be best for your home.
Working with a licensed solar installer can help you make the most of your investment in solar. 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 Hughson
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Hughson
There are many factors that can play into your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar panel system you need, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by around $3,470. The model of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will considerably affect costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more costly. Plus, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to make decisions about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when researching a solar system that’s in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
Most solar installers in Hughson have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs considerably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final factor to consider when trying to evaluate the cost of solar for your home or business in Hughson is the company you choose to install your solar system. As with choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, you’ll have no shortage of solar installers that provide a range of services at different price points.The company’s size sometimes plays the most considerable role in the cost of installation. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices due to access to greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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 | $34,525 | 7.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $46,423 | 7.5 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $58,514 | 7.3 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $70,800 | 7.2 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $83,280 | 7.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $95,954 | 6.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $108,823 | 6.7 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $121,886 | 6.6 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the brand of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system’s efficiency, production, and durability, it’s important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you’d like to get plays a part in which company you should opt for, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Contract: When reading through your solar company’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
- Warranty: A quality company rises above other companies by providing the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years likely provide high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
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 Hughson, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Hughson?
The average cost of solar panels in Hughson 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 certain factors like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Is cost the most important thing to think about when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a crucial 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 be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to consider are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Hughson 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 give you credit toward your future utility bills.
How long do solar panels last in Hughson?
Even though the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they stop working completely at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can choose to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.
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.