Solar Panel Cost Guide in La Crescenta-Montrose, CA (2024 Update)
- La Crescenta-Montrose Solar Installation Cost: $6,920
- 25-Year Savings: $25,025
- Payback Period: 7.2 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in La Crescenta-Montrose
Let’s have a look at the average cost of solar panels in La Crescenta-Montrose.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in La Crescenta-Montrose generally cost about 3.To cover the typical energy needs of the average home in La Crescenta-Montrose, most homeowners require a 2.8-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $6,920, or $9,896 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of installing solar panels can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as how many panels you need, your energy consumption and what installation company you go with.But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the return on investment for most homeowners is usually good, with a net average savings of about $32,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
To receive a free estimate from a vetted solar installation company in La Crescenta-Montrose, you can click the button below.
Solar savings over time in La Crescenta-Montrose
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,642 |
| 3 years | $-3,087 |
| 5 years | $-531 |
| 7 years | $2,024 |
| 9 years | $4,580 |
| 11 years | $7,135 |
| 13 years | $9,691 |
| 15 years | $12,247 |
| 17 years | $14,802 |
| 19 years | $17,358 |
| 21 years | $19,913 |
| 23 years | $22,469 |
| 25 years | $25,025 |
Top Solar Installers in La Crescenta-Montrose
Trying to install solar panels by yourself can be a time-consuming task, which is why using a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with a good reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can work with a local solar installer to get a free estimate on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some in La Crescenta-Montrose:
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 La Crescenta-Montrose
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in La Crescenta-Montrose
While the average cost of a solar system in La Crescenta-Montrose is $6,920, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, you can expect your total to increase by about $3,470. The kind of solar equipment you choose can increase or decrease your cost by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get the most efficient solar panel brands, you’ll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the La Crescenta-Montrose average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is out of reach, solar loans are a popular option because they reduce your upfront costs and let you pay for your system over five to seven years on average.However, the interest on solar loans also adds to your total costs, so it’s important to keep that in mind as well. You can always lower the total you pay in interest and sometimes even your APR by putting more money down.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installation company you select will affect your total cost to go solar. Different companies will bill different amounts for the equipment and labor.Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It’s best to do some research and choose a company that has the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also fits within your budget.
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 | $35,631 | 7.5 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $47,897 | 7.3 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $60,357 | 7.2 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $73,012 | 7.0 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $85,860 | 6.9 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $98,903 | 6.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $112,141 | 6.6 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $125,572 | 6.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The company that does your solar panel installation will affect the warranties and brands you have access to, and it will also have an impact on your total cost. Since choosing a company can be difficult, we have some tips to help you, such as:
- Contract: Before you sign a contract with a solar installer, make sure to look it over fully so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you’re not certain about some of the terms, such as what the warranty covers and what services you can expect from them.
- Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their locations and how much efficiency they need. Although there are many options for which brand of solar panel you can get, not every company will have the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of options before making your decision.
- Installation Process: When making the switch to solar energy, it’s important to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Make sure you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
- Reputation: Long-standing companies likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
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 La Crescenta-Montrose, CA Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in La Crescenta-Montrose?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a few different 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 extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or cheaper solar panels.
Is cost the most important thing to keep in mind when buying solar panels?
Cost is certainly one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.
Is it worth going solar in La Crescenta-Montrose?
Solar panels can be a good investment for many homeowners, but they might not be worth it for everyone. If your home doesn't get enough sunlight and/or your electricity bills are already reasonably low, solar panels might not be for you.
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 uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can typically 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.