Solar Panel Cost Guide in Lamont, CA (2023 Update)
- Lamont Solar Installation Cost: $5,536
- 25-Year Savings: $18,274
- Payback Period: 5.8 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Lamont
Here's how much it might cost to switch to solar power in Lamont.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Lamont, the typical cost of a solar system is 2.73 per watt. Since a 2.9-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in Lamont, the average price of going solar will be about $5,542 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
Bear in mind that the figures above are only estimates based on the average energy use of Lamont homeowners. The price of a solar system for your home may be different depending on factors unique to your situation, like your household energy use and solar contractor. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar power is worth paying. On average homeowners in Lamont see about $31,000 in savings on energy bills over 20 years.
You can click the button below to get connected with a vetted solar company in Lamont for a quote for your home.
Solar savings over time in Lamont
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-5,457 |
| 3 years | $-5,298 |
| 5 years | $-5,140 |
| 7 years | $-4,981 |
| 9 years | $-4,822 |
| 11 years | $-4,663 |
| 13 years | $-4,505 |
| 15 years | $-4,346 |
| 17 years | $-4,187 |
| 19 years | $-4,028 |
| 21 years | $-3,870 |
| 23 years | $-3,711 |
| 25 years | $-3,552 |
Top Solar Installers in Lamont
Installing solar panels yourself can be a challenging task, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. The expertise that solar companies offer can be helpful as well, especially if you aren't sure what type of solar equipment would be right for your home.
There are a number of licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar panels. 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
See all of the solar companies in Lamont
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Lamont
Cost is often one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few key factors that will push your cost above or below the average in Lamont: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of installing solar panels. For that reason, it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Lamont, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. In addition, if you have a small roof or you don't have a lot of 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
Most solar installers in Lamont have solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the total interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you're only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you choose will influence your total cost to make the switch to solar power. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. The size of the company sometimes plays the most significant role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of access to more resources and bulk pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or discount can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger companies.
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 | $37,386 | 6.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $50,154 | 5.9 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $63,074 | 5.8 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $76,148 | 5.7 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $89,374 | 5.6 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $102,754 | 5.5 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $116,286 | 5.3 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $129,971 | 5.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a large number of companies available in Lamont, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Solar Panel Brands: The kind of solar panel you'd like plays a role in which installer you should opt for, since different companies provide different panels.
- Reputation: Solar installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been in business for many years in most cases offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Contract: Review the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project timeline rebates and warranties.
- Installation Process: When going solar, it's essential to maintain an open line of communication with your solar panel installer. Confirm that you understand how the installation process will go and the project timeline.
Best Regional Coverage
Momentum Solar
- Great warranty coverage
- Representatives are experts on local policies
- Concierge service ensures steady communication
- Slightly limited service offerings
EcoWatch's Lamont, CA Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Lamont?
This is a difficult question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of 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 other solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy needs. Conversely, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Are solar panels free in Lamont?
Solar panels aren't free in Lamont, but there are some options that can make getting them more feasible, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
How much can I save on energy bills after switching to solar?
Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on where you're located and the efficiency of your system. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $1,643.69 per year.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount 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.