Solar Panel Cost Guide in Isla Vista, CA (2023 Update)
- Isla Vista Solar Installation Cost: $5,370
- 25-Year Savings: $17,180
- Payback Period: 6.0 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Isla Vista
We go over average solar pricing in Isla Vista.
In Isla Vista, solar panels cost about 2.73 per watt on average. Using this figure, a typical 2.8-kW system would cost about $5,370 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
How much you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Isla Vista depending on a few factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. With typical savings of about $30,000 on power bills over 20 years, many homeowners in Isla Vista find going solar has a decent ROI.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Isla Vista for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Isla Vista
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,468 |
| 3 years | $-2,664 |
| 5 years | $-860 |
| 7 years | $944 |
| 9 years | $2,748 |
| 11 years | $4,552 |
| 13 years | $6,356 |
| 15 years | $8,160 |
| 17 years | $9,964 |
| 19 years | $11,768 |
| 21 years | $13,572 |
| 23 years | $15,376 |
| 25 years | $17,180 |
Top Solar Installers in Isla Vista
When going solar, many homeowners choose to hire a solar company since putting up solar panels yourself can be a difficult project. Another benefit of utilizing a solar company is that they can help you optimize your ROI by bringing down your future costs of repairs and replacements with the help of warranties and giving you information on local incentives you can take advantage of.
There are several licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
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 Isla Vista
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Isla Vista
For many Isla Vista homeowners, the decision to install a solar energy system comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Isla Vista, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are a number of factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.
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 electricity your household uses, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend about $2,730 per kilowatt in Isla Vista. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer higher efficiency. In a city like Isla Vista, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, 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
For some homeowners, paying for a solar system out of pocket can be difficult. Solar loans are offered by most installers in Isla Vista, which can bring down, or in some cases completely eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more affordable. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you choose to go with a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can lower the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you select will play a role in your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Isla Vista have more knowledge about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you 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 | $2.84 | $11,925 | $36,151 | 6.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $48,507 | 6.1 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $61,017 | 6.0 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $73,678 | 5.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $86,493 | 5.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $99,461 | 5.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $112,582 | 5.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $125,855 | 5.4 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you pick the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Reputation: Make sure your solar panel installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking how long it's been in business and reading reviews by previous customers and solar experts like the EcoWatch team.
- Contract: Read the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer various brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Warranty: An all-inclusive, long-term warranty can help keep your solar system running for a long time and save you money on part replacement and repairs.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
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 Isla Vista, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Isla Vista?
The average cost of solar panels in Isla Vista is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors like the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Is cost the most important thing to consider when buying solar panels?
The initial cost is a very important factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on your goals for going solar. In places where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to be mindful of are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Does Isla Vista have a net metering program?
Each state has some form 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 give you credit toward your future power bills.
How long do solar panels last in Isla Vista?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level of energy production.
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.