Solar Panel Cost Guide in Ladera Heights, CA (2023 Update)
- Ladera Heights Solar Installation Cost: $5,446
- 25-Year Savings: $16,682
- Payback Period: 6.2 Years
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Updated March 14, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Ladera Heights
See how much it might cost to go solar in Ladera Heights.
The average cost of a solar system in Ladera Heights is 2.73 per watt. To account for the typical energy usage of the average home in Ladera Heights, most homeowners require a 2.9-kilowatt system. Using the per-watt figure above, a solar installation costs around $5,446, or $7,788 before the federal solar tax credit of 30% is applied.
The true price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Ladera Heights depending on several factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar company you hire. Many homeowners find going solar is a fruitful investment. The average homeowner in Ladera Heights can save about $30,000 on their power bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by EcoWatch, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Ladera Heights
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-4,561 |
| 3 years | $-2,791 |
| 5 years | $-1,021 |
| 7 years | $750 |
| 9 years | $2,520 |
| 11 years | $4,290 |
| 13 years | $6,061 |
| 15 years | $7,831 |
| 17 years | $9,601 |
| 19 years | $11,372 |
| 21 years | $13,142 |
| 23 years | $14,912 |
| 25 years | $16,682 |
Top Solar Installers in Ladera Heights
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a dangerous undertaking, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar companies offer can be invaluable as well, especially if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment would be right for your home.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can install solar panels for you. 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 Ladera Heights
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Ladera Heights
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who are considering investing in solar. There are a few major factors that affect your total cost in Ladera Heights: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the main factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have better efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,730. The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down 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, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your energy bills. Additionally, extra products, such as solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Ladera Heights average.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Ladera Heights to be prohibitively expensive, even if the investment pays off over time. Thankfully, almost every solar company in the area provides access to financing options. Solar loans drastically decrease upfront costs for most homeowners, but they also lead to higher prices over time because of interest. It's wise to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar panel installation company you pick will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Ladera Heights are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about 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 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 | $34,678 | 6.4 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $46,543 | 6.3 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $58,561 | 6.2 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $70,731 | 6.0 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $83,055 | 5.9 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $95,532 | 5.8 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $108,161 | 5.7 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $120,943 | 5.5 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Solar Panel Brands: The type of solar panel you need to get plays a role in which installer you should go with, since different companies have access to different panels.
- Contract: When reading over your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios such as a system part breaking or the company going out of business.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Companies that have been in business for many years 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 quality aftercare and customer service, 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 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 Ladera Heights, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Ladera Heights?
This is a tough question to answer exactly, because the cost depends on a few different factors. Generally 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 extra solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Ladera Heights?
Leasing solar panels can be an attractive choice, as it typically comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The downside is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better option if you want to maximize your savings.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Ladera Heights?
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 give you credit toward your future electricity bills.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can take a look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.
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.