Solar Panel Cost Guide in Indio, CA (2024 Update)
- Indio Solar Installation Cost: $6,803
- 25-Year Savings: $13,474
- Payback Period: 9.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Indio
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Indio.
In Indio, solar panels cost about 3 per watt on average.To account for the typical energy needs of the average home in Indio, most homeowners require a 2.8-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs about $6,803, or $9,728 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar energy system could cost. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary depending on multiple factors, such as what size system you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with.But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $26,000 over 20 years on power bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Indio
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,692 |
| 3 years | $-3,471 |
| 5 years | $-1,249 |
| 7 years | $973 |
| 9 years | $3,195 |
| 11 years | $5,416 |
| 13 years | $7,638 |
| 15 years | $9,860 |
| 17 years | $12,082 |
| 19 years | $14,303 |
| 21 years | $16,525 |
| 23 years | $18,747 |
| 25 years | $20,969 |
Top Solar Installers in Indio
When going solar, many homeowners choose to use a solar installer since DIY solar panel installation can be a challenging project. Plus, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar energy, opting for a solar installer can help with that too. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on how to install solar panels and sometimes even information on local incentives, rebates and net metering programs.
You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some near you:
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
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 Indio
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Indio
There are many criteria that can play into your 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
One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of installing solar panels is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $3,470 per kilowatt in Indio.Some solar brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Indio, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Plus, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be a better option. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Indio to be too costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar installer in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to higher prices over time because of interest.When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating in Indio, and each can charge different amounts for labor and equipment.You may notice national solar installers that have lower prices because of their larger brand name and access to bulk pricing, or you might see small, local installation companies offering deals or specials 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 | $25,174 | 9.4 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $33,954 | 9.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $42,928 | 9.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $52,096 | 8.9 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $61,459 | 8.7 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $71,016 | 8.5 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $80,768 | 8.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $90,714 | 8.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in Indio, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases provide good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Installation Process: Get detailed information from your solar company about the installation process and what to expect, including when the site survey will be done and what the project timeline is.
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to read it through carefully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not sure about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and type has varying levels of quality, durability and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose plays a role in which solar panel brands you have access to.
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
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 Indio, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Indio?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly 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 cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. Conversely, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Indio?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Indio. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Indio?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future energy bills.
How many solar panels should I get to power my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home requires and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house 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.