Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ione, CA (2024 Update)
- Ione Solar Installation Cost: $7,462
- 25-Year Savings: $18,543
- Payback Period: 7.6 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ione
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Ione.
The average cost of a solar panel system in Ione is 3 per watt.Because a 3.1-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Ione, the average price of going solar will be about $7,462 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 0.
Keep in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Ione homeowners. The cost of a solar system for your home may look different depending on factors unique to you, like your household energy use and solar contractor.But, after you've paid the initial cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually fruitful, with a net average savings of about $30,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar company that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ione
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,924 |
| 3 years | $-2,849 |
| 5 years | $227 |
| 7 years | $3,303 |
| 9 years | $6,379 |
| 11 years | $9,455 |
| 13 years | $12,530 |
| 15 years | $15,606 |
| 17 years | $18,682 |
| 19 years | $21,758 |
| 21 years | $24,834 |
| 23 years | $27,909 |
| 25 years | $30,985 |
Top Solar Installers in Ione
Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra labor and handiness. Because of that, most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, if you’d like to maximize your investment in solar, using a solar installer can help with that as well. Different providers can offer warranties, expertise on installation and sometimes even information on local incentives and net metering programs.
Working with a professional 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 Ione
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ione
The cost of installing a solar system in Ione can vary by more than $10,000 from home to home. Your actual cost depends on several factors. The largest one is the size of the system your home needs, and other factors include the equipment you choose, financing options and the solar company you choose.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to some different factors. One of the major factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with greater efficiency or power generation need better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,470.The solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Ione average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is too expensive, solar loans are a popular option because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over a term of, on average, between five and seven years.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it’s vital to consider that as well. You can always bring down the total you pay in interest and in some cases even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
A final consideration when trying to figure out the cost of solar for your home or business in Ione is the company you choose to install your solar panel system. Similar to choosing a company to build a deck or pool, for example, there are plenty of solar installers that provide a range of services for different budgets.Additionally, some companies in Ione know more about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. 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 | $32,523 | 7.9 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $43,753 | 7.8 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $55,177 | 7.6 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $66,795 | 7.5 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $78,608 | 7.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $90,615 | 7.2 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $102,817 | 7.0 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $115,212 | 6.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar company you choose will affect not only your total costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should keep in mind, including:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies offer the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a significant role in the company you hire.
- Contract: Though reading through a contract can be tedious, it’s important to do it fully so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and the terms of the warranty.
- Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for replacement parts and repairs over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a quality company.
- Reputation: The North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) is a well-established certification organization for sustainable energy professionals. If your solar panel installer is NABCEP-certified, it likely has a solid reputation and is qualified to get the job done well. Another way you can look into your installer’s reputation is by reading reviews.
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 Ione, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Ione?
The average cost of solar panels in Ione 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 things such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Are solar panels free in Ione?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Ione. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Does Ione have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can get paid for the extra power your system generates 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.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you need to know how much energy your home uses 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 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.