Solar Panel Cost Guide in Keyes, CA (2023 Update)
- Keyes Solar Installation Cost: $5,714
- 25-Year Savings: $18,369
- Payback Period: 5.9 Years
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Updated May 04, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Keyes
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in Keyes.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Keyes generally cost around 2.73. Since a 3.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Keyes, the average price of going solar will be about $5,714 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The exact cost of going solar can vary depending on several factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is typically good, with a net average savings of about $31,000 over 20 years on power bills.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Keyes
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,751 |
| 3 years | $-2,824 |
| 5 years | $-897 |
| 7 years | $1,029 |
| 9 years | $2,956 |
| 11 years | $4,883 |
| 13 years | $6,809 |
| 15 years | $8,736 |
| 17 years | $10,663 |
| 19 years | $12,589 |
| 21 years | $14,516 |
| 23 years | $16,443 |
| 25 years | $18,369 |
Top Solar Installers in Keyes
Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it requires extra effort and know-how. That's one of the reasons most homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
Working with a professional solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
See all of the solar companies in Keyes
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Keyes
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners considering investing in solar. There are a few primary factors that affect your total cost in Keyes: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll go over each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it's crucial to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. The brand and kind of equipment you choose for your solar system can increase or decrease 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 a small roof or just want maximum energy production, you will be looking at a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to greater savings over time. Also, if you want extra equipment like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also increase the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many Keyes homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. However, the interest on solar loans also increases your all-in costs, so it's important to keep that in mind as well. You can always reduce the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by making a larger down payment.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you pick will affect your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Keyes 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 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 | $2.84 | $11,925 | $36,435 | 6.2 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $48,886 | 6.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $61,490 | 5.9 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $74,247 | 5.8 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $87,156 | 5.7 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $100,219 | 5.6 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $113,434 | 5.5 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $126,802 | 5.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
Since the type of solar panels and the installation company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some tips to keep in mind to help with your decision:
- Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar installer, make sure you look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're not sure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies have the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a large role in the company you choose.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're aligned with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a solid reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has positive reviews from past customers.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
Best Warranty Coverage
Sunpro Solar
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Expansive service area
- Some reported communication issues
- No leases or PPAs
EcoWatch's Keyes, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Keyes?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will be more expensive 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.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Keyes?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can't afford to pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don't own the system, you don't have access to many solar incentives. Also your home value won't increase, so you'll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most savings from going solar.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Keyes?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future utility bills.
How long do solar panels last in Keyes?
Although 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 decide to replace them once you've had them for that long or you can keep using 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.